15211.org

Typically I reserve this space for more newsworthy items and less Mountain Girl commentary because it’s the community’s forum, not mine. But today, I’m going to offer an opinion on two topics because they’ve been dominating the comments and message boards and crowding our e-mail inbox.

The Edge

A contentious debate seems to be going on about the design specs for the hotel/complex that Desmone is proposing. I’ve attended many of the meetings about this development and I’ve seen the design morph into what it is today and I don’t remember anyone saying anything about Italian-style villas as an inspiration. Now granted, I could have been drifting off at that point and thinking about what I was going to eat at Redbeard’s afterward, but can anyone provide some clarity around this? Did Mr. Desmone talk about the Italian-style villa as the motivation for his design? Or was he referencing Italy simply because of the similarities in topography? Perhaps we’re being a little too literal.

As far as the design being outdated (maybe because he designed in the 80s and he’s been fighting for it since then? Sorry, couldn’t resist), I think it’s important to remember that:

• There will be more opportunities for public input. ThatDude is correct when s/he says that the developer isn’t seeking public funds, but because of the zoning designation, vetting the design through the community is required and;
• Desmone & Associates is a professional architectural firm that has designed many commercial and residential properties throughout the region. So when do we step back and trust that professionals know what they’re doing? This is not to say we shouldn’t act as a check and balance for developers/designers that want to build in our neighborhood, but sometimes we’re delving into purely subjective territory. What you may not like about the design, someone else might love.

I just appreciate the fact that we’ve moved beyond talking about how to get this building condemned and worrying about the zoning designations to debating the merits of the design. What a huge milestone! Feel free to banter about design all day, every day because it means we’ve made progress.

Racism

I’m basically acknowledging what everyone already knows…this problem won’t be solved on a neighborhood website. Sigh. People are questioning whether leaving the desecrated doll at the doorsteps of an African-American family is racist and some are linking race to renters and Section 8 housing. It’s heavy stuff. All I can say is that I’d much rather people express themselves honestly on this site (anonymously or not) than go and act out any of their frustrations or confusion or fear.