By DAYNA DRUM | Reporter
The economic impact of the Baseline Mansionization/Baseline Hillside Ordinance (BMO/BHO) amendments was the center of discussion at a June 2 community meeting in the Palisades.
Staff from the Department of City Planning said the economic impact of the revised code—including how the BMO/BHO could affect property values—is not considered.
The city planners said their department does not look at the economic impacts of ordinances.
City Planning officials presented the BMO/BHO Amendment specifics, which dictate the size of new construction and renovations for single-family homes in the city, and allowed the audience to ask questions about the ordinance.
Residents formed a long line to ask questions regarding property grading to property values. Coldwell Banker real estate agent Michael Edlen explained the potential loss in value based on the restricted square footage.
When residents asked if this impact was being considered at all during the process, officials replied it wasn’t. “To not do an economic feasibility study is irresponsible,” one attendee replied.
Another resident pointed to the fiscal impact on the city itself as well, indicating there would be a large loss in property taxes. “This is not only shooting yourself in the foot, it’s using a shotgun to do it,” the resident told officials.
Phyllis Nathanson of the Planning Department explained the city understood the unique nature of the Palisades. “We recognize that one-size-fits-all doesn’t work,” Nathanson said.
Because of this the city will consider different options and is working to find ways to address specific concerns. However, some residents weren’t concerned with options but rather just want the entire process to end, with one person saying, “How can we just stop it?”
Public comments will be accepted until June 10 and a public hearing meeting with the Department of City Planning is scheduled for July 14.
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