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@Lance, in theory, yes. In theory communism works, too. But the very existence of a VA process that often is completely independent of agreements worked out with the ANC, and is generally representative of only the interests of a few select individuals who have a lot of time on their hands, but may or may not have legitimate cause for obstructing the process, belies that goal.

We cannot easily fix the way ANCs operate. What we can fix, though, is the fact that there is no consistent, process-driven approach to how these things get worked out.

I don't have a perfect solution, but what is clear is that there needs to be more structure to this process than "anyone can throw a wrench in the works at any time." Perhaps if the ANCs were given this responsibility solely, the citizens they supposedly represent would take more of an interest in their proceedings. Perhaps not.

I really don't know why this can't work the same way it does when someone wants to build something that requires a zoning variance or an historic board approval. The ANC makes a recommendation, individuals who are directly affected may make their case to the zoning board, the historical review committee works with the homeowner and will also make a recommendation. But after some designated period of time, everyone has had their say, and the zoning board makes a decision. You can't come back at the 11th hour and start a new round of protests.

What happens here is that nobody seems to have the authority to say "enough is enough" and make a decision. You can't please everyone all the time. You should certainly listen to everyone, but at the end of the day you have to do something that will hopefully balance the needs and concerns of everyone.

Someone's going to be pissed off, of course, that is inevitable, but the current process lets a few cranks who openly admit they will oppose any new restaurants hold things up indefinitely, to the great detriment of the vast majority who do not oppose it. Not to mention the great expense to the business owner -- with the net effect of stifling business development by creating extraordinary burdens on those who want to open something.

by Jamie on Dec 1, 2010 2:33 pm • link • report