Kirsten’s Planning Commission Voting Record
I previously posted this on my campaign Facebook page on August 31st, but I’m re-sharing it here and adding three more votes to the record (#7-9) as well as some clarifying notes. Also, just FYI: you can track the current status of all major development projects in the City here, including any upcoming work sessions, public hearings, and votes.
As you may or may not know, not every development project in the City comes before the Planning Commission (for example, the Bank of America building re-development proposal and the original Courthouse Plaza proposal did not). But for those high-visibility projects that have (as well as key zoning changes), here's how I voted and a brief explanation of why:
Breezeway Motel redevelopment: NO (concerns about incomplete development plan as well as outsized impact to naturally occurring affordable housing [NOAH] in the City)
Davies Property redevelopment: NO (concerns about emergency accessibility to the property and adjacent properties; failure to comply with public accessibility intent of applicable Small Area Plan)
City Center West: YES (importance of maintaining Truist HQ in the City; balance of commercial and residential space in the development plan - note that the future sale price of the residential units was not provided as part of the application)
Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance: YES (with a note stated for the record that the City should review its oversight and enforcement processes for rental properties)
Taco Bell: YES (recognizing the challenges posed by poor parking layout at the adjacent property, but acknowledging that denying an application based on the condition of adjacent unrelated property is not a reasonable standard)
Adoption of the Updated Comprehensive Plan: YES (pretty proud of this one, the Commission worked hard to make the updated document reflective of ongoing work and priorities across the broader City government ecosystem)
The Botanist (Willowwood Office Plaza replacement): YES (conformity with and activation of Northfax Small Area Plan)
Highlands at Mantua Townhomes: YES (contribution to housing mix in the City; favorable economic impact)
Adoption of the Urban Forestry Master Plan: YES (a really excellent, actionable roadmap for preserving our tree canopy)
Note 1: Planning Commission has not yet voted on the Gallery at City Center, Circle Gateway, or the most recent Courthouse Plaza redevelopment proposals.
Note 2: Scout at the Circle, The Point at Fairfax (formerly the Moxley), and The Flats were all approved prior to my time on the Planning Commission.
Note 3: Beacon Landing (permanent supportive housing in partnership with the Lamb Center) did not come before the Planning Commission.