Support combining DRB and Planning Commission
Currently there are two different paths for someone seeking development resulting in added costs and delays in getting projects underway. Staff support for two committees is significant, including the time and cost to broadcast meetings and to maintain the archive.
The recent experience of a combined meeting of the two committees reviewing the Barlow Hotel uncovered no clear differences between the interests and concerns of the two committees. Both committees identified similar concerns and had similar questions. It is clear that combining them presents few issues with decision making even a a large complex project like a new hotel.
It is time for the City Council to actually commit to making changes that will lower deficits, reduce taxpayer costs and increase city government efficiency.
Vote to combine the two committees.