First of all, let us commend Maria Ogrydziak for designing a fabulously innovative and green structure with flat tops on her roof to support green plants. It was an innovative proposal, one of the greenest ever. There was just one unfortunate part of the proposal, it just did not fit into an existing neighborhood. If this were a new neighborhood, a new development, a lot of the naysayers would have been cheering her on.
The problem is that the project just does not fit into into an existing neighborhood. It was rejected by both the Planning Commission and the Historical Resources Management Commission. Ms. Ogrydziak had one more option and that was appeal the Planning Commission’s decision to the Davis City Council.
Late into the night the meeting went. The neighbors were dead set against this. Maynard Skinner presented a petition to the council signed by 42 other residents. He demonstrated to the council that other infill and densification projects work. He then went on to talk about Davis having its own “Jake the Plumber” and “Mike the Carpenter” (Mike Corbett). One project in particular that ought to be a model was a project on Russell Blvd. that put at least ten units onto a lot that used to have a single unit. But from the street, you would never know that it is a densification project because the project blends so well into the existing neighborhood and design guidelines.
Maynard Skinner pointed out that one of the guidelines is to preserve and protect the neighborhood character. This project is inconsistent with design guidelines, according to Mr. Skinner.
As many residents indicated, they are not opposed to any project there. It followed the guidelines and the neighbors have no problem. Indeed there was a project on B Street that was approved without opposition. This is different. And it is a simply an issue of location rather than the project.
As Councilmember Lamar Heystek put it:
“I think this is a terrific project, and I hope it gets replicated in the dozens. But we simply cannot have design guidelines that we don’t ever anticipate applying.”
But even with the project guidelines set as they were and even with the strong neighborhood objections–42 neighbors objecting to the project–this project still had a good chance of being approved.
For Mayor Pro Tem Don Saylor:
“The design guidelines are not rules. They really are in need of balance with other considerations.”
However, none of the other councilmembers saw it that way and Mr. Saylor’s motion died for lack of a second.
Here is where things got really interesting.
Councilmember Heystek moved that the council uphold the decision of the planning council to deny the project. Councilmember Sue Greenwald seconded the motion.
Now remember, Sue Greenwald could not vote on the original Third and B project because she lived within five hundred feet and was conflicted out. However, at that time, it was suggested she would be able to vote on some of the projects that came forth within the area that were outside of this limit. The city attorney ruled earlier in the day, that the project at 233 B Street was outside of the five hundred foot limit.
Mayor Ruth Asmundson suggested a substitute where they would table the proposal by Ogrydziak and take another look at the design guidelines to make them more flexible. However, City Attorney Harriet Steiner determined that by law the council could not table this motion or the project would be tabled for an entire year.
This put the substitute motion by the Mayor off the table again after it had originally passed three to two.
The motion was evenly divided. And Stephen Souza held the swing position and he abstained. Because the Planning Commission already denied the project, the council’s tie vote meant the planning commission’s decision would stand and the project was killed for an entire year.
Mayor Pro Tem Don Saylor was not happy. He informed Councilmember Souza that due to his vote the project would be killed. The councilmember was well aware of the implications of his actions.
The councilmember said:
“I have a major conflict here trying to pit history against the environment.”
Mr. Saylor responded:
“So you deny the project by not doing either.”
Somehow, someway, the council made the right decision with regard to this project. Why put in design-guidelines if they are not to serve as exactly that–guidelines which must be adhered to. Mayor Pro Tem Saylor was willing to scrap those. But if we go back to the original debate over the Third and B project, we will remember that literally hours were spent haggling over exactly those guidelines. To summarily scrap them is disrespectful to the previous process. If those guidelines carry no merit, then why take time to lay them out in such a clear manner.
Second point that must be raised here again is neighborhood concern. 42 residents opposed this project. The neighborhood was heavily against this project. How do you go forward with a project in a neighborhood that the neighbors are against? About this time, the charge of NIMBYISM is thrown out. It’s a red herring. The neighbors have the right to protect the character of their neighborhood. It is the height of arrogance to decide that one knows better than the neighbors what does or does not fit. Once the design guidelines are put in place, that acts as the reasonably agreed limitations of the project. What a lot of people in this community seem to fail to understand is that people sink their life’s savings into their homes. Most people are not investors with multiple properties, they have one home and they have an obligation to protect that investment and that asset. Moreover they should have the right to not have a project placed into their community that sticks out like an eyesore.
The big lesson here that people ought to take away is that a great project in one location is a horrible project in another location. I want green and sustainable development in this community – I encourage this kind of innovation – but, it has to fit in with the current character and design guidelines. This project did not. It should be located in a new neighborhood and many of the same people opposing this project would have been leading the way. This was simply not the place to locate it. The council was narrowly divided but ultimately did the right thing.
—David M. Greenwald reporting
I’d like to see more projects put forward that are innovative. I am not a fan of Ms. O but I think we need that creativity.
I’d like to see more projects put forward that are innovative. I am not a fan of Ms. O but I think we need that creativity.
I’d like to see more projects put forward that are innovative. I am not a fan of Ms. O but I think we need that creativity.
I’d like to see more projects put forward that are innovative. I am not a fan of Ms. O but I think we need that creativity.
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
Neighbors often lose. The project at Cal Aggie Christian Association is an example. (Don Saylor was a huge supporter of that project as well.)
Neighbors often lose. The project at Cal Aggie Christian Association is an example. (Don Saylor was a huge supporter of that project as well.)
Neighbors often lose. The project at Cal Aggie Christian Association is an example. (Don Saylor was a huge supporter of that project as well.)
Neighbors often lose. The project at Cal Aggie Christian Association is an example. (Don Saylor was a huge supporter of that project as well.)
I love the Food Co-Op design. It has ROOM around it. It works beautifully.
Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood. And, it is too big.
I love the Food Co-Op design. It has ROOM around it. It works beautifully.
Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood. And, it is too big.
I love the Food Co-Op design. It has ROOM around it. It works beautifully.
Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood. And, it is too big.
I love the Food Co-Op design. It has ROOM around it. It works beautifully.
Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood. And, it is too big.
Great work Councilmembers Heystek, Souza, and Greenwald!
Thank you for protecting our neighborhood!
Watch out for Saylor and Kemple Pope. They’re proposals are not good for our community.
Great work Councilmembers Heystek, Souza, and Greenwald!
Thank you for protecting our neighborhood!
Watch out for Saylor and Kemple Pope. They’re proposals are not good for our community.
Great work Councilmembers Heystek, Souza, and Greenwald!
Thank you for protecting our neighborhood!
Watch out for Saylor and Kemple Pope. They’re proposals are not good for our community.
Great work Councilmembers Heystek, Souza, and Greenwald!
Thank you for protecting our neighborhood!
Watch out for Saylor and Kemple Pope. They’re proposals are not good for our community.
Anonymous said…
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
People on this Blog strongly disagreed with me about Souza. I believe what you saw is the precursor to a similar difference that will arise when Measure J is discussed. Souza made a campaign pledge that will be hard for Don Saylor to swallow. I see no reason why Souza will do anything other than stand by his pledge. Expect more sparks to fly in the months ahead.
Anonymous said…
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
People on this Blog strongly disagreed with me about Souza. I believe what you saw is the precursor to a similar difference that will arise when Measure J is discussed. Souza made a campaign pledge that will be hard for Don Saylor to swallow. I see no reason why Souza will do anything other than stand by his pledge. Expect more sparks to fly in the months ahead.
Anonymous said…
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
People on this Blog strongly disagreed with me about Souza. I believe what you saw is the precursor to a similar difference that will arise when Measure J is discussed. Souza made a campaign pledge that will be hard for Don Saylor to swallow. I see no reason why Souza will do anything other than stand by his pledge. Expect more sparks to fly in the months ahead.
Anonymous said…
I have noticed a riff developing between Souza and Saylor. Instead of walking lock step on everything they are starting to disagree on things and their demeanor toward each other has changed for the worst. This project and the city charter are two examples of this. Souza was ticked off when Saylor chided him for his abstention causing the project to fail.
People on this Blog strongly disagreed with me about Souza. I believe what you saw is the precursor to a similar difference that will arise when Measure J is discussed. Souza made a campaign pledge that will be hard for Don Saylor to swallow. I see no reason why Souza will do anything other than stand by his pledge. Expect more sparks to fly in the months ahead.
If we really are a progressive community, the next step should be to proactively go out and find a location where Maria’s innovative design would be an addition to the neighborhood.
Anyone have any thoughts?
If we really are a progressive community, the next step should be to proactively go out and find a location where Maria’s innovative design would be an addition to the neighborhood.
Anyone have any thoughts?
If we really are a progressive community, the next step should be to proactively go out and find a location where Maria’s innovative design would be an addition to the neighborhood.
Anyone have any thoughts?
If we really are a progressive community, the next step should be to proactively go out and find a location where Maria’s innovative design would be an addition to the neighborhood.
Anyone have any thoughts?
“I was at the meeting, one thing DPD did not cover were the condescending remarks that Kendell Pope made…. This is a big pompous azz and he is probably going to run for council.”
If you are going to condemn Mr. Pope by name, have the decency to do so under your own real name. While I happen to completely disagree with Pope on 233 B, it’s far worse to make nasty remarks about someone pseudonymously.
“I was at the meeting, one thing DPD did not cover were the condescending remarks that Kendell Pope made…. This is a big pompous azz and he is probably going to run for council.”
If you are going to condemn Mr. Pope by name, have the decency to do so under your own real name. While I happen to completely disagree with Pope on 233 B, it’s far worse to make nasty remarks about someone pseudonymously.
“I was at the meeting, one thing DPD did not cover were the condescending remarks that Kendell Pope made…. This is a big pompous azz and he is probably going to run for council.”
If you are going to condemn Mr. Pope by name, have the decency to do so under your own real name. While I happen to completely disagree with Pope on 233 B, it’s far worse to make nasty remarks about someone pseudonymously.
“I was at the meeting, one thing DPD did not cover were the condescending remarks that Kendell Pope made…. This is a big pompous azz and he is probably going to run for council.”
If you are going to condemn Mr. Pope by name, have the decency to do so under your own real name. While I happen to completely disagree with Pope on 233 B, it’s far worse to make nasty remarks about someone pseudonymously.
“I love the Food Co-Op design.”
Me, too. I am also a big fan of Gerald Heffernon’s sculpture out front of it.
“Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood.”
One thing no one mentioned at the city council meeting — I was there, but got tired of waiting after 2 hours on other topics and left before public comments — is how important a role context plays for historic properties.
Immediately across the street from 233 B is the Jacobson-Wilson house at 232 B, a designated City of Davis merit resource. Why is that important? Because we have very few such properties in town, and in order for 232 B to retain its historic integrity, it must exist within the context of a somewhat traditional residential neighborhood. Permitting such a massive, modern structure directly across the street would destroy the setting for Jacobson-Wilson.
Moreover, once it was built, it would permit a similar structure on 241 B (also an Ogrydziak property). And those two developments would set the tone for everything to the south on B Street up to Baker’s Square, where non-traditional buildings, unfortunately were constructed in the 1960s.
Also, that neighborhood has two city Landmarks, as well, at 301 and 326 B. So once you allow the destruction of the historic integrity south of 3rd, you harm the context of the McDonald House and the Scott House.
“I love the Food Co-Op design.”
Me, too. I am also a big fan of Gerald Heffernon’s sculpture out front of it.
“Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood.”
One thing no one mentioned at the city council meeting — I was there, but got tired of waiting after 2 hours on other topics and left before public comments — is how important a role context plays for historic properties.
Immediately across the street from 233 B is the Jacobson-Wilson house at 232 B, a designated City of Davis merit resource. Why is that important? Because we have very few such properties in town, and in order for 232 B to retain its historic integrity, it must exist within the context of a somewhat traditional residential neighborhood. Permitting such a massive, modern structure directly across the street would destroy the setting for Jacobson-Wilson.
Moreover, once it was built, it would permit a similar structure on 241 B (also an Ogrydziak property). And those two developments would set the tone for everything to the south on B Street up to Baker’s Square, where non-traditional buildings, unfortunately were constructed in the 1960s.
Also, that neighborhood has two city Landmarks, as well, at 301 and 326 B. So once you allow the destruction of the historic integrity south of 3rd, you harm the context of the McDonald House and the Scott House.
“I love the Food Co-Op design.”
Me, too. I am also a big fan of Gerald Heffernon’s sculpture out front of it.
“Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood.”
One thing no one mentioned at the city council meeting — I was there, but got tired of waiting after 2 hours on other topics and left before public comments — is how important a role context plays for historic properties.
Immediately across the street from 233 B is the Jacobson-Wilson house at 232 B, a designated City of Davis merit resource. Why is that important? Because we have very few such properties in town, and in order for 232 B to retain its historic integrity, it must exist within the context of a somewhat traditional residential neighborhood. Permitting such a massive, modern structure directly across the street would destroy the setting for Jacobson-Wilson.
Moreover, once it was built, it would permit a similar structure on 241 B (also an Ogrydziak property). And those two developments would set the tone for everything to the south on B Street up to Baker’s Square, where non-traditional buildings, unfortunately were constructed in the 1960s.
Also, that neighborhood has two city Landmarks, as well, at 301 and 326 B. So once you allow the destruction of the historic integrity south of 3rd, you harm the context of the McDonald House and the Scott House.
“I love the Food Co-Op design.”
Me, too. I am also a big fan of Gerald Heffernon’s sculpture out front of it.
“Maria’s B Street project does not fit within a historic neighborhood.”
One thing no one mentioned at the city council meeting — I was there, but got tired of waiting after 2 hours on other topics and left before public comments — is how important a role context plays for historic properties.
Immediately across the street from 233 B is the Jacobson-Wilson house at 232 B, a designated City of Davis merit resource. Why is that important? Because we have very few such properties in town, and in order for 232 B to retain its historic integrity, it must exist within the context of a somewhat traditional residential neighborhood. Permitting such a massive, modern structure directly across the street would destroy the setting for Jacobson-Wilson.
Moreover, once it was built, it would permit a similar structure on 241 B (also an Ogrydziak property). And those two developments would set the tone for everything to the south on B Street up to Baker’s Square, where non-traditional buildings, unfortunately were constructed in the 1960s.
Also, that neighborhood has two city Landmarks, as well, at 301 and 326 B. So once you allow the destruction of the historic integrity south of 3rd, you harm the context of the McDonald House and the Scott House.
The city that I grew up in is no longer the Davis of today. I remember spending most of my childhood afternoons in Village Homes and riding my bike to friends’ houses. More recently I remember working at the Department of Energy in Washington Dc and everyday passing a poster extolling the virtues of Davis’ efficient land use. Davis used to be respected for its forward thinking character and our respect for efficient design. Now we’re more concerned with neighborhood esthetics then our impacts on future generations.
I have seen Davis double in size and I have been witness to a city that hasn’t done anything in 30 years to promote sustainable development. We invented the bike lane but now we’re more concerned about whether a building has a sloped roof or a flat one.
We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it. When I look around to places that are making a difference I don’t think of Davis, I think of places that are actually getting things done. Frankly I’m ashamed of Davis and how small minded we’ve become.
The city that I grew up in is no longer the Davis of today. I remember spending most of my childhood afternoons in Village Homes and riding my bike to friends’ houses. More recently I remember working at the Department of Energy in Washington Dc and everyday passing a poster extolling the virtues of Davis’ efficient land use. Davis used to be respected for its forward thinking character and our respect for efficient design. Now we’re more concerned with neighborhood esthetics then our impacts on future generations.
I have seen Davis double in size and I have been witness to a city that hasn’t done anything in 30 years to promote sustainable development. We invented the bike lane but now we’re more concerned about whether a building has a sloped roof or a flat one.
We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it. When I look around to places that are making a difference I don’t think of Davis, I think of places that are actually getting things done. Frankly I’m ashamed of Davis and how small minded we’ve become.
The city that I grew up in is no longer the Davis of today. I remember spending most of my childhood afternoons in Village Homes and riding my bike to friends’ houses. More recently I remember working at the Department of Energy in Washington Dc and everyday passing a poster extolling the virtues of Davis’ efficient land use. Davis used to be respected for its forward thinking character and our respect for efficient design. Now we’re more concerned with neighborhood esthetics then our impacts on future generations.
I have seen Davis double in size and I have been witness to a city that hasn’t done anything in 30 years to promote sustainable development. We invented the bike lane but now we’re more concerned about whether a building has a sloped roof or a flat one.
We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it. When I look around to places that are making a difference I don’t think of Davis, I think of places that are actually getting things done. Frankly I’m ashamed of Davis and how small minded we’ve become.
The city that I grew up in is no longer the Davis of today. I remember spending most of my childhood afternoons in Village Homes and riding my bike to friends’ houses. More recently I remember working at the Department of Energy in Washington Dc and everyday passing a poster extolling the virtues of Davis’ efficient land use. Davis used to be respected for its forward thinking character and our respect for efficient design. Now we’re more concerned with neighborhood esthetics then our impacts on future generations.
I have seen Davis double in size and I have been witness to a city that hasn’t done anything in 30 years to promote sustainable development. We invented the bike lane but now we’re more concerned about whether a building has a sloped roof or a flat one.
We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it. When I look around to places that are making a difference I don’t think of Davis, I think of places that are actually getting things done. Frankly I’m ashamed of Davis and how small minded we’ve become.
“We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it.”
Why did we blow it? The building design is good, it’s just not the place for it. Why is it wrong for the neighbors not to want a building that does not fit in with the rest of their neighborhood. Nobody disputes having a green building, but it has to fit in the basic location. She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested. I think they may be.
“We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it.”
Why did we blow it? The building design is good, it’s just not the place for it. Why is it wrong for the neighbors not to want a building that does not fit in with the rest of their neighborhood. Nobody disputes having a green building, but it has to fit in the basic location. She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested. I think they may be.
“We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it.”
Why did we blow it? The building design is good, it’s just not the place for it. Why is it wrong for the neighbors not to want a building that does not fit in with the rest of their neighborhood. Nobody disputes having a green building, but it has to fit in the basic location. She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested. I think they may be.
“We had a chance to build one of the greenest buildings in the country in our town and we blew it.”
Why did we blow it? The building design is good, it’s just not the place for it. Why is it wrong for the neighbors not to want a building that does not fit in with the rest of their neighborhood. Nobody disputes having a green building, but it has to fit in the basic location. She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested. I think they may be.
“She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested.”
Maria’s idea is to provide live/work housing in the downtown, not in an outlying neighborhood. She wants the buyers to be able to walk to restaurants and the movies and so on. I think that is a worthy concept and goal.
As long as the scale fits the lot, her project could work in a number of locations in the core area. On E Street, between 1st and 2nd, right across from The Lofts would be a good fit, for example. Another would be on F Street, between 4th and 5th. There must be a dozen sites in the downtown better for this particular idea than 233 B, the lot she owns.
She is a very talented architect, and I’m sure for that particular lot, she can design a project which meets the guidelines. Nobody has argued against demolishing the small house which sits there, now.
“She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested.”
Maria’s idea is to provide live/work housing in the downtown, not in an outlying neighborhood. She wants the buyers to be able to walk to restaurants and the movies and so on. I think that is a worthy concept and goal.
As long as the scale fits the lot, her project could work in a number of locations in the core area. On E Street, between 1st and 2nd, right across from The Lofts would be a good fit, for example. Another would be on F Street, between 4th and 5th. There must be a dozen sites in the downtown better for this particular idea than 233 B, the lot she owns.
She is a very talented architect, and I’m sure for that particular lot, she can design a project which meets the guidelines. Nobody has argued against demolishing the small house which sits there, now.
“She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested.”
Maria’s idea is to provide live/work housing in the downtown, not in an outlying neighborhood. She wants the buyers to be able to walk to restaurants and the movies and so on. I think that is a worthy concept and goal.
As long as the scale fits the lot, her project could work in a number of locations in the core area. On E Street, between 1st and 2nd, right across from The Lofts would be a good fit, for example. Another would be on F Street, between 4th and 5th. There must be a dozen sites in the downtown better for this particular idea than 233 B, the lot she owns.
She is a very talented architect, and I’m sure for that particular lot, she can design a project which meets the guidelines. Nobody has argued against demolishing the small house which sits there, now.
“She should propose that architecture to the half a dozen new developments being proposed now and see if any of them are interested.”
Maria’s idea is to provide live/work housing in the downtown, not in an outlying neighborhood. She wants the buyers to be able to walk to restaurants and the movies and so on. I think that is a worthy concept and goal.
As long as the scale fits the lot, her project could work in a number of locations in the core area. On E Street, between 1st and 2nd, right across from The Lofts would be a good fit, for example. Another would be on F Street, between 4th and 5th. There must be a dozen sites in the downtown better for this particular idea than 233 B, the lot she owns.
She is a very talented architect, and I’m sure for that particular lot, she can design a project which meets the guidelines. Nobody has argued against demolishing the small house which sits there, now.
Anyone who actually looks at the enormous, blocky proposed structures would see that they violate the design guidelines, which call for structures which fit the historic, cottage-style design of the neighborhood.
Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect. Instead of working with the guidelines, she organized to change the entire zoning of B Street, insulted the neighbors, insinuated herself into the DBA, effectively driving a wedge between the DBA and the neighbors and turning the DBA into a tool to promote her project.
Again, this would be a good project in another location, but not as the defining structure on this historic, publicly visible street.
Anyone who actually looks at the enormous, blocky proposed structures would see that they violate the design guidelines, which call for structures which fit the historic, cottage-style design of the neighborhood.
Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect. Instead of working with the guidelines, she organized to change the entire zoning of B Street, insulted the neighbors, insinuated herself into the DBA, effectively driving a wedge between the DBA and the neighbors and turning the DBA into a tool to promote her project.
Again, this would be a good project in another location, but not as the defining structure on this historic, publicly visible street.
Anyone who actually looks at the enormous, blocky proposed structures would see that they violate the design guidelines, which call for structures which fit the historic, cottage-style design of the neighborhood.
Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect. Instead of working with the guidelines, she organized to change the entire zoning of B Street, insulted the neighbors, insinuated herself into the DBA, effectively driving a wedge between the DBA and the neighbors and turning the DBA into a tool to promote her project.
Again, this would be a good project in another location, but not as the defining structure on this historic, publicly visible street.
Anyone who actually looks at the enormous, blocky proposed structures would see that they violate the design guidelines, which call for structures which fit the historic, cottage-style design of the neighborhood.
Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect. Instead of working with the guidelines, she organized to change the entire zoning of B Street, insulted the neighbors, insinuated herself into the DBA, effectively driving a wedge between the DBA and the neighbors and turning the DBA into a tool to promote her project.
Again, this would be a good project in another location, but not as the defining structure on this historic, publicly visible street.
What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follwo green guidelines. Sacramento Mutual Housing Association try and say that they do in the hopes that they will get grants from the governement but in truth, none of them are truly affordable or green. THey are huge sprawling warehouses for the poor that can’t afford to really live there and they don’t follow the green guidelines. They are a drain on the government, the environment, and a drain on city resources. Why is the commission approving these complexes yet dissaproving truly green complexes. WHO is paying WHO off here?
John Berkely Management was investigated years ago for giving bribes to the Housing commisioner in sacramento so they could get in on the low income housing feeding frenzy.
It’s a scam from the top down, to the bottom up. Get it!
What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follwo green guidelines. Sacramento Mutual Housing Association try and say that they do in the hopes that they will get grants from the governement but in truth, none of them are truly affordable or green. THey are huge sprawling warehouses for the poor that can’t afford to really live there and they don’t follow the green guidelines. They are a drain on the government, the environment, and a drain on city resources. Why is the commission approving these complexes yet dissaproving truly green complexes. WHO is paying WHO off here?
John Berkely Management was investigated years ago for giving bribes to the Housing commisioner in sacramento so they could get in on the low income housing feeding frenzy.
It’s a scam from the top down, to the bottom up. Get it!
What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follwo green guidelines. Sacramento Mutual Housing Association try and say that they do in the hopes that they will get grants from the governement but in truth, none of them are truly affordable or green. THey are huge sprawling warehouses for the poor that can’t afford to really live there and they don’t follow the green guidelines. They are a drain on the government, the environment, and a drain on city resources. Why is the commission approving these complexes yet dissaproving truly green complexes. WHO is paying WHO off here?
John Berkely Management was investigated years ago for giving bribes to the Housing commisioner in sacramento so they could get in on the low income housing feeding frenzy.
It’s a scam from the top down, to the bottom up. Get it!
What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follwo green guidelines. Sacramento Mutual Housing Association try and say that they do in the hopes that they will get grants from the governement but in truth, none of them are truly affordable or green. THey are huge sprawling warehouses for the poor that can’t afford to really live there and they don’t follow the green guidelines. They are a drain on the government, the environment, and a drain on city resources. Why is the commission approving these complexes yet dissaproving truly green complexes. WHO is paying WHO off here?
John Berkely Management was investigated years ago for giving bribes to the Housing commisioner in sacramento so they could get in on the low income housing feeding frenzy.
It’s a scam from the top down, to the bottom up. Get it!
Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year. I know it sounds good – “green” roofs – but it may not work well. It would be better for the roof to be lower in height than shade trees and use materials that are green (recycled, renewable, etc.) A sloped roof design, per the guidelines, would work better.
Maria is an architect. She is trained to design within limitations and customer desires. She needs to use that training to design something that fits the community’s guidelines rather than continue to be stubborn and design rectangle boxes.
Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year. I know it sounds good – “green” roofs – but it may not work well. It would be better for the roof to be lower in height than shade trees and use materials that are green (recycled, renewable, etc.) A sloped roof design, per the guidelines, would work better.
Maria is an architect. She is trained to design within limitations and customer desires. She needs to use that training to design something that fits the community’s guidelines rather than continue to be stubborn and design rectangle boxes.
Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year. I know it sounds good – “green” roofs – but it may not work well. It would be better for the roof to be lower in height than shade trees and use materials that are green (recycled, renewable, etc.) A sloped roof design, per the guidelines, would work better.
Maria is an architect. She is trained to design within limitations and customer desires. She needs to use that training to design something that fits the community’s guidelines rather than continue to be stubborn and design rectangle boxes.
Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year. I know it sounds good – “green” roofs – but it may not work well. It would be better for the roof to be lower in height than shade trees and use materials that are green (recycled, renewable, etc.) A sloped roof design, per the guidelines, would work better.
Maria is an architect. She is trained to design within limitations and customer desires. She needs to use that training to design something that fits the community’s guidelines rather than continue to be stubborn and design rectangle boxes.
Souza is differentiating himself from Saylor bc he got a good deal of bad publicity in the last election – even from the Sac Bee – as being somewhat of a thug. Fortunately he is beginning to realize that it is important to take into account what the citizens of the city do or don’t want. Saylor hasn’t gotten that message yet, thinking his big win is a personal mandate for his “thoughtful” approach to politics. Boy is he in for a bumpy ride as mayor! So is his political career, esp since he appears to be a toadie of developers, as is Asmundson.
Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.
Guidelines are there for a very good purpose, bc they represent what folks want. To just throw them away when it doesn’t suit sends the wrong message – what citizens want doesn’t matter. That is a very dangerous political position to take. Kudos to the Planning Commission for leading the charge in doing the right thing.
DPD is spot on in his analysis here!
Souza is differentiating himself from Saylor bc he got a good deal of bad publicity in the last election – even from the Sac Bee – as being somewhat of a thug. Fortunately he is beginning to realize that it is important to take into account what the citizens of the city do or don’t want. Saylor hasn’t gotten that message yet, thinking his big win is a personal mandate for his “thoughtful” approach to politics. Boy is he in for a bumpy ride as mayor! So is his political career, esp since he appears to be a toadie of developers, as is Asmundson.
Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.
Guidelines are there for a very good purpose, bc they represent what folks want. To just throw them away when it doesn’t suit sends the wrong message – what citizens want doesn’t matter. That is a very dangerous political position to take. Kudos to the Planning Commission for leading the charge in doing the right thing.
DPD is spot on in his analysis here!
Souza is differentiating himself from Saylor bc he got a good deal of bad publicity in the last election – even from the Sac Bee – as being somewhat of a thug. Fortunately he is beginning to realize that it is important to take into account what the citizens of the city do or don’t want. Saylor hasn’t gotten that message yet, thinking his big win is a personal mandate for his “thoughtful” approach to politics. Boy is he in for a bumpy ride as mayor! So is his political career, esp since he appears to be a toadie of developers, as is Asmundson.
Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.
Guidelines are there for a very good purpose, bc they represent what folks want. To just throw them away when it doesn’t suit sends the wrong message – what citizens want doesn’t matter. That is a very dangerous political position to take. Kudos to the Planning Commission for leading the charge in doing the right thing.
DPD is spot on in his analysis here!
Souza is differentiating himself from Saylor bc he got a good deal of bad publicity in the last election – even from the Sac Bee – as being somewhat of a thug. Fortunately he is beginning to realize that it is important to take into account what the citizens of the city do or don’t want. Saylor hasn’t gotten that message yet, thinking his big win is a personal mandate for his “thoughtful” approach to politics. Boy is he in for a bumpy ride as mayor! So is his political career, esp since he appears to be a toadie of developers, as is Asmundson.
Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.
Guidelines are there for a very good purpose, bc they represent what folks want. To just throw them away when it doesn’t suit sends the wrong message – what citizens want doesn’t matter. That is a very dangerous political position to take. Kudos to the Planning Commission for leading the charge in doing the right thing.
DPD is spot on in his analysis here!
There is nothing that prevents a project from being supremely green while complying with the design guidelines. She could build with straw bale construction and still comply with the guidelines. It’s about design. This project was an attempt to greenwash the community into thinking design and green construction are mutually exclusive.
However, another good location for her project would be Olive Drive. It would fit perfectly in that context.
There is nothing that prevents a project from being supremely green while complying with the design guidelines. She could build with straw bale construction and still comply with the guidelines. It’s about design. This project was an attempt to greenwash the community into thinking design and green construction are mutually exclusive.
However, another good location for her project would be Olive Drive. It would fit perfectly in that context.
There is nothing that prevents a project from being supremely green while complying with the design guidelines. She could build with straw bale construction and still comply with the guidelines. It’s about design. This project was an attempt to greenwash the community into thinking design and green construction are mutually exclusive.
However, another good location for her project would be Olive Drive. It would fit perfectly in that context.
There is nothing that prevents a project from being supremely green while complying with the design guidelines. She could build with straw bale construction and still comply with the guidelines. It’s about design. This project was an attempt to greenwash the community into thinking design and green construction are mutually exclusive.
However, another good location for her project would be Olive Drive. It would fit perfectly in that context.
From the Real Estate section of today’s Enterprise:
4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom 2088 square feet in Dixon $283,000 Sale Pending.
4 Bedroom 2.5 bath 2090 square feet in Davis $606,500 sold.
So everything else being equal Davis is 2.15 times as expensive as Dixon.
This is relevant because it shows how the no growth attitude of many Davis residents has caused the cost of housing up to the point where it just isn’t worth it to live here for anyone but the rich or already landed. Upon seeing this ad I said to my wife let’s move to Dixon we will be able to to afford private school for the kids.
From the Real Estate section of today’s Enterprise:
4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom 2088 square feet in Dixon $283,000 Sale Pending.
4 Bedroom 2.5 bath 2090 square feet in Davis $606,500 sold.
So everything else being equal Davis is 2.15 times as expensive as Dixon.
This is relevant because it shows how the no growth attitude of many Davis residents has caused the cost of housing up to the point where it just isn’t worth it to live here for anyone but the rich or already landed. Upon seeing this ad I said to my wife let’s move to Dixon we will be able to to afford private school for the kids.
From the Real Estate section of today’s Enterprise:
4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom 2088 square feet in Dixon $283,000 Sale Pending.
4 Bedroom 2.5 bath 2090 square feet in Davis $606,500 sold.
So everything else being equal Davis is 2.15 times as expensive as Dixon.
This is relevant because it shows how the no growth attitude of many Davis residents has caused the cost of housing up to the point where it just isn’t worth it to live here for anyone but the rich or already landed. Upon seeing this ad I said to my wife let’s move to Dixon we will be able to to afford private school for the kids.
From the Real Estate section of today’s Enterprise:
4 bedroom 2.5 bathroom 2088 square feet in Dixon $283,000 Sale Pending.
4 Bedroom 2.5 bath 2090 square feet in Davis $606,500 sold.
So everything else being equal Davis is 2.15 times as expensive as Dixon.
This is relevant because it shows how the no growth attitude of many Davis residents has caused the cost of housing up to the point where it just isn’t worth it to live here for anyone but the rich or already landed. Upon seeing this ad I said to my wife let’s move to Dixon we will be able to to afford private school for the kids.
That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.
You haven’t factored in neighborhood, desirability, schools, or a variety of other factors that would exist in addition to relative scarcity of commodity.
That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.
You haven’t factored in neighborhood, desirability, schools, or a variety of other factors that would exist in addition to relative scarcity of commodity.
That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.
You haven’t factored in neighborhood, desirability, schools, or a variety of other factors that would exist in addition to relative scarcity of commodity.
That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.
You haven’t factored in neighborhood, desirability, schools, or a variety of other factors that would exist in addition to relative scarcity of commodity.
“Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect.”
The Ogrydzkiaks have owned 233 B for many years now — exactly how many I don't know. The current guidelines were adopted last year, well after they bought that property.
However, the previous guidelines which governed the Universtity Avenue/Rice Lane neighborhood — now divorced from the 3rd & B visioning area — showed a greater emphasis on adaptive reuse, as opposed to demolition and new construction. In cases like 233 B, where there was not a strong reason to keep the building intact, demolition was an still an option.
The Ogrydziaks had, some years ago, submitted plans to the city for a similar project at 233 B. That was rejected, and I believe (though I'm not completely sure of this) because it violated the tenor of the old guidelines for its location. It was then the rejection of that plan (and the rejection of another on B Street) which motivated and got the ball rolling on the new guidelines, which permit far more demolition and much larger structures and are designed to be much less cognizant of historical patterns of development. And with all that new leeway, the new Ogrydziak plan still did not meet the guidelines.
“Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect.”
The Ogrydzkiaks have owned 233 B for many years now — exactly how many I don't know. The current guidelines were adopted last year, well after they bought that property.
However, the previous guidelines which governed the Universtity Avenue/Rice Lane neighborhood — now divorced from the 3rd & B visioning area — showed a greater emphasis on adaptive reuse, as opposed to demolition and new construction. In cases like 233 B, where there was not a strong reason to keep the building intact, demolition was an still an option.
The Ogrydziaks had, some years ago, submitted plans to the city for a similar project at 233 B. That was rejected, and I believe (though I'm not completely sure of this) because it violated the tenor of the old guidelines for its location. It was then the rejection of that plan (and the rejection of another on B Street) which motivated and got the ball rolling on the new guidelines, which permit far more demolition and much larger structures and are designed to be much less cognizant of historical patterns of development. And with all that new leeway, the new Ogrydziak plan still did not meet the guidelines.
“Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect.”
The Ogrydzkiaks have owned 233 B for many years now — exactly how many I don't know. The current guidelines were adopted last year, well after they bought that property.
However, the previous guidelines which governed the Universtity Avenue/Rice Lane neighborhood — now divorced from the 3rd & B visioning area — showed a greater emphasis on adaptive reuse, as opposed to demolition and new construction. In cases like 233 B, where there was not a strong reason to keep the building intact, demolition was an still an option.
The Ogrydziaks had, some years ago, submitted plans to the city for a similar project at 233 B. That was rejected, and I believe (though I'm not completely sure of this) because it violated the tenor of the old guidelines for its location. It was then the rejection of that plan (and the rejection of another on B Street) which motivated and got the ball rolling on the new guidelines, which permit far more demolition and much larger structures and are designed to be much less cognizant of historical patterns of development. And with all that new leeway, the new Ogrydziak plan still did not meet the guidelines.
“Ogrydziak bought the property knowing these design guidelines were in effect.”
The Ogrydzkiaks have owned 233 B for many years now — exactly how many I don't know. The current guidelines were adopted last year, well after they bought that property.
However, the previous guidelines which governed the Universtity Avenue/Rice Lane neighborhood — now divorced from the 3rd & B visioning area — showed a greater emphasis on adaptive reuse, as opposed to demolition and new construction. In cases like 233 B, where there was not a strong reason to keep the building intact, demolition was an still an option.
The Ogrydziaks had, some years ago, submitted plans to the city for a similar project at 233 B. That was rejected, and I believe (though I'm not completely sure of this) because it violated the tenor of the old guidelines for its location. It was then the rejection of that plan (and the rejection of another on B Street) which motivated and got the ball rolling on the new guidelines, which permit far more demolition and much larger structures and are designed to be much less cognizant of historical patterns of development. And with all that new leeway, the new Ogrydziak plan still did not meet the guidelines.
“Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year.”
I’m not an expert on this topic. However, at the city council hearing for 233 B, a man from Village Homes who has a green roof showed pictures of his house and said that it works very well in this climate.
I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof. I could be drinking the Kool-Aide, but it seems unlikely to me that she would have designed in a green roof if it was destined to fail, there.
“Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year.”
I’m not an expert on this topic. However, at the city council hearing for 233 B, a man from Village Homes who has a green roof showed pictures of his house and said that it works very well in this climate.
I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof. I could be drinking the Kool-Aide, but it seems unlikely to me that she would have designed in a green roof if it was destined to fail, there.
“Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year.”
I’m not an expert on this topic. However, at the city council hearing for 233 B, a man from Village Homes who has a green roof showed pictures of his house and said that it works very well in this climate.
I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof. I could be drinking the Kool-Aide, but it seems unlikely to me that she would have designed in a green roof if it was destined to fail, there.
“Green roofs may not be the best design for the Sacramento Valley with too much water required to maintain the vegetation. Green roofs do better in wetter climates, i.e. the Pacific Northwest, where the roof doesn’t have to be watered most of the year.”
I’m not an expert on this topic. However, at the city council hearing for 233 B, a man from Village Homes who has a green roof showed pictures of his house and said that it works very well in this climate.
I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof. I could be drinking the Kool-Aide, but it seems unlikely to me that she would have designed in a green roof if it was destined to fail, there.
“Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.”
I concede my ignorance, as well. Wikipedia says what a green roof is and some green roof benefits:
A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane.
A green roof will:
*Reduce heating (by adding mass and thermal resistance value) and cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building — especially if it is glassed in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir
*Increase roof life span
*Reduce stormwater run off
*Filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air
*The soil and plants on green roofs help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies.
*Filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater
*Increase wildlife habitat in built-up areas
*A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green roofs can also reduce heat loss and energy consumption in winter conditions.
*In a recent study on the impacts of green infrastructure and in particular green roofs in the Greater Manchester area, researchers found that adding green roofs will help keep temperatures down, particularly in urban areas: “adding green roofs to all buildings can have a dramatic effect on maximum surface temperatures, keeping temperatures below the 1961-1990 current form case for all time periods and emissions scenarios. Roof greening makes the biggest difference…where the building proportion is high and the evaporative fraction is low. Thus, the largest difference was made in the town centres.”
“Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.”
I concede my ignorance, as well. Wikipedia says what a green roof is and some green roof benefits:
A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane.
A green roof will:
*Reduce heating (by adding mass and thermal resistance value) and cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building — especially if it is glassed in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir
*Increase roof life span
*Reduce stormwater run off
*Filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air
*The soil and plants on green roofs help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies.
*Filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater
*Increase wildlife habitat in built-up areas
*A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green roofs can also reduce heat loss and energy consumption in winter conditions.
*In a recent study on the impacts of green infrastructure and in particular green roofs in the Greater Manchester area, researchers found that adding green roofs will help keep temperatures down, particularly in urban areas: “adding green roofs to all buildings can have a dramatic effect on maximum surface temperatures, keeping temperatures below the 1961-1990 current form case for all time periods and emissions scenarios. Roof greening makes the biggest difference…where the building proportion is high and the evaporative fraction is low. Thus, the largest difference was made in the town centres.”
“Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.”
I concede my ignorance, as well. Wikipedia says what a green roof is and some green roof benefits:
A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane.
A green roof will:
*Reduce heating (by adding mass and thermal resistance value) and cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building — especially if it is glassed in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir
*Increase roof life span
*Reduce stormwater run off
*Filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air
*The soil and plants on green roofs help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies.
*Filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater
*Increase wildlife habitat in built-up areas
*A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green roofs can also reduce heat loss and energy consumption in winter conditions.
*In a recent study on the impacts of green infrastructure and in particular green roofs in the Greater Manchester area, researchers found that adding green roofs will help keep temperatures down, particularly in urban areas: “adding green roofs to all buildings can have a dramatic effect on maximum surface temperatures, keeping temperatures below the 1961-1990 current form case for all time periods and emissions scenarios. Roof greening makes the biggest difference…where the building proportion is high and the evaporative fraction is low. Thus, the largest difference was made in the town centres.”
“Would someone explain to me the purpose of grass on a roof? How is that a good thing? Color me eco-ignorant.”
I concede my ignorance, as well. Wikipedia says what a green roof is and some green roof benefits:
A green roof is a roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane.
A green roof will:
*Reduce heating (by adding mass and thermal resistance value) and cooling (by evaporative cooling) loads on a building — especially if it is glassed in so as to act as a terrarium and passive solar heat reservoir
*Increase roof life span
*Reduce stormwater run off
*Filter pollutants and CO2 out of the air
*The soil and plants on green roofs help to insulate a building for sound; the soil helps to block lower frequencies and the plants block higher frequencies.
*Filter pollutants and heavy metals out of rainwater
*Increase wildlife habitat in built-up areas
*A 2005 study by Brad Bass of the University of Toronto showed that green roofs can also reduce heat loss and energy consumption in winter conditions.
*In a recent study on the impacts of green infrastructure and in particular green roofs in the Greater Manchester area, researchers found that adding green roofs will help keep temperatures down, particularly in urban areas: “adding green roofs to all buildings can have a dramatic effect on maximum surface temperatures, keeping temperatures below the 1961-1990 current form case for all time periods and emissions scenarios. Roof greening makes the biggest difference…where the building proportion is high and the evaporative fraction is low. Thus, the largest difference was made in the town centres.”
“What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follow green guidelines.”
What is an example of this desperation?
As you know, our city’s “green building ordinance” is new. It just went into effect on September 1 of this year. I cannot imagine that the planning commission has violated city policy with regard to the GBO, as you are implying.
For all new residential projects, the design is required to meet the “Build It Green” rating system. That is based on points.
“What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follow green guidelines.”
What is an example of this desperation?
As you know, our city’s “green building ordinance” is new. It just went into effect on September 1 of this year. I cannot imagine that the planning commission has violated city policy with regard to the GBO, as you are implying.
For all new residential projects, the design is required to meet the “Build It Green” rating system. That is based on points.
“What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follow green guidelines.”
What is an example of this desperation?
As you know, our city’s “green building ordinance” is new. It just went into effect on September 1 of this year. I cannot imagine that the planning commission has violated city policy with regard to the GBO, as you are implying.
For all new residential projects, the design is required to meet the “Build It Green” rating system. That is based on points.
“What I don’t understand is why is the planning commission so desperate to approve “affordable housing” warehouses, that don’t follow green guidelines.”
What is an example of this desperation?
As you know, our city’s “green building ordinance” is new. It just went into effect on September 1 of this year. I cannot imagine that the planning commission has violated city policy with regard to the GBO, as you are implying.
For all new residential projects, the design is required to meet the “Build It Green” rating system. That is based on points.
“That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.”
Duh!
I said all other things being equal but if you have been following the housing market you could do the calculation for comparable sized properties for Davis and any surrounding communities and get similar results. Try it yourself and you will see that I am correct. Now a more serious critique would actually bring in that prices are down more in other communities because they overbuilt while the real estate market in Davis has held up because of restricted growth. Additionally there is this factor that many homes in Davis are not on thr market because people don’t want to sell them in a buyers market that is being set by foreclosures. There are many other variables as well such as the social amenities of Davis and the comunity committment to education. On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions. So there are many costs and benefits on both sides. Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?
“That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.”
Duh!
I said all other things being equal but if you have been following the housing market you could do the calculation for comparable sized properties for Davis and any surrounding communities and get similar results. Try it yourself and you will see that I am correct. Now a more serious critique would actually bring in that prices are down more in other communities because they overbuilt while the real estate market in Davis has held up because of restricted growth. Additionally there is this factor that many homes in Davis are not on thr market because people don’t want to sell them in a buyers market that is being set by foreclosures. There are many other variables as well such as the social amenities of Davis and the comunity committment to education. On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions. So there are many costs and benefits on both sides. Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?
“That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.”
Duh!
I said all other things being equal but if you have been following the housing market you could do the calculation for comparable sized properties for Davis and any surrounding communities and get similar results. Try it yourself and you will see that I am correct. Now a more serious critique would actually bring in that prices are down more in other communities because they overbuilt while the real estate market in Davis has held up because of restricted growth. Additionally there is this factor that many homes in Davis are not on thr market because people don’t want to sell them in a buyers market that is being set by foreclosures. There are many other variables as well such as the social amenities of Davis and the comunity committment to education. On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions. So there are many costs and benefits on both sides. Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?
“That’s an assumption from a limited amount of data.”
Duh!
I said all other things being equal but if you have been following the housing market you could do the calculation for comparable sized properties for Davis and any surrounding communities and get similar results. Try it yourself and you will see that I am correct. Now a more serious critique would actually bring in that prices are down more in other communities because they overbuilt while the real estate market in Davis has held up because of restricted growth. Additionally there is this factor that many homes in Davis are not on thr market because people don’t want to sell them in a buyers market that is being set by foreclosures. There are many other variables as well such as the social amenities of Davis and the comunity committment to education. On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions. So there are many costs and benefits on both sides. Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?
“Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?”
Bart, it seems like you are assuming that Dixon has had a loose housing growth policy while Davis has had a very restrictive one. I don’t know how many new homes have been built in Dixon in the last 10 years. Is the number appreciably higher than the number in Davis since 1998? If it’s not higher, then it would seem to contradict your theory about the effect of slow growth in Davis as a unique factor causing our relative unaffordability.
On something related… Keep in mind that West Village is now getting started. Right on our border, it will add 1,554 housing units in the next few years. It’s not unlikely that more housing will be erected at Cannery Park, more at Wildhorse Ranch and more at a few other infill sites. I suspect, given the low prices in Dixon and the poor health of banks, many new units will be constructed there is the coming years.
“Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?”
Bart, it seems like you are assuming that Dixon has had a loose housing growth policy while Davis has had a very restrictive one. I don’t know how many new homes have been built in Dixon in the last 10 years. Is the number appreciably higher than the number in Davis since 1998? If it’s not higher, then it would seem to contradict your theory about the effect of slow growth in Davis as a unique factor causing our relative unaffordability.
On something related… Keep in mind that West Village is now getting started. Right on our border, it will add 1,554 housing units in the next few years. It’s not unlikely that more housing will be erected at Cannery Park, more at Wildhorse Ranch and more at a few other infill sites. I suspect, given the low prices in Dixon and the poor health of banks, many new units will be constructed there is the coming years.
“Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?”
Bart, it seems like you are assuming that Dixon has had a loose housing growth policy while Davis has had a very restrictive one. I don’t know how many new homes have been built in Dixon in the last 10 years. Is the number appreciably higher than the number in Davis since 1998? If it’s not higher, then it would seem to contradict your theory about the effect of slow growth in Davis as a unique factor causing our relative unaffordability.
On something related… Keep in mind that West Village is now getting started. Right on our border, it will add 1,554 housing units in the next few years. It’s not unlikely that more housing will be erected at Cannery Park, more at Wildhorse Ranch and more at a few other infill sites. I suspect, given the low prices in Dixon and the poor health of banks, many new units will be constructed there is the coming years.
“Still, at some point the price differentials should begin to sink in and raise the question of what kind of community has slow growth created? Is it the world as we wish it to be or is are there unintended consequences to these policies that merit reconsideration?”
Bart, it seems like you are assuming that Dixon has had a loose housing growth policy while Davis has had a very restrictive one. I don’t know how many new homes have been built in Dixon in the last 10 years. Is the number appreciably higher than the number in Davis since 1998? If it’s not higher, then it would seem to contradict your theory about the effect of slow growth in Davis as a unique factor causing our relative unaffordability.
On something related… Keep in mind that West Village is now getting started. Right on our border, it will add 1,554 housing units in the next few years. It’s not unlikely that more housing will be erected at Cannery Park, more at Wildhorse Ranch and more at a few other infill sites. I suspect, given the low prices in Dixon and the poor health of banks, many new units will be constructed there is the coming years.
I doubt* many new units will be constructed there in the coming years.
I doubt* many new units will be constructed there in the coming years.
I doubt* many new units will be constructed there in the coming years.
I doubt* many new units will be constructed there in the coming years.
“On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions.”
SID provides irrigation water to farms around Dixon, not drinking water in the city of Dixon. That comes from wells.
In all the years I’ve been tracking home prices between Dixon and Davis (roughly from 1976 on) the difference has been about 10 – 20% higher in Davis. The last year has seen some amazing differences, not surprisingly. There are lots more homes in foreclosure in Dixon than in Davis, and a number of homes were built in the last few years. Dixon has had a growth limit on housing development for many years.
“On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions.”
SID provides irrigation water to farms around Dixon, not drinking water in the city of Dixon. That comes from wells.
In all the years I’ve been tracking home prices between Dixon and Davis (roughly from 1976 on) the difference has been about 10 – 20% higher in Davis. The last year has seen some amazing differences, not surprisingly. There are lots more homes in foreclosure in Dixon than in Davis, and a number of homes were built in the last few years. Dixon has had a growth limit on housing development for many years.
“On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions.”
SID provides irrigation water to farms around Dixon, not drinking water in the city of Dixon. That comes from wells.
In all the years I’ve been tracking home prices between Dixon and Davis (roughly from 1976 on) the difference has been about 10 – 20% higher in Davis. The last year has seen some amazing differences, not surprisingly. There are lots more homes in foreclosure in Dixon than in Davis, and a number of homes were built in the last few years. Dixon has had a growth limit on housing development for many years.
“On the other hand Dixon has Solano Irrigation District water and better traffic conditions.”
SID provides irrigation water to farms around Dixon, not drinking water in the city of Dixon. That comes from wells.
In all the years I’ve been tracking home prices between Dixon and Davis (roughly from 1976 on) the difference has been about 10 – 20% higher in Davis. The last year has seen some amazing differences, not surprisingly. There are lots more homes in foreclosure in Dixon than in Davis, and a number of homes were built in the last few years. Dixon has had a growth limit on housing development for many years.
“I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof.”
Yes, there are lots of plants that would be suitable that use less water than grass. Aptenia and various species of Sedum are examples.
“I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof.”
Yes, there are lots of plants that would be suitable that use less water than grass. Aptenia and various species of Sedum are examples.
“I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof.”
Yes, there are lots of plants that would be suitable that use less water than grass. Aptenia and various species of Sedum are examples.
“I’ve also heard Maria say that there are drought tolerant plants which don’t take a lot of water yet have all the cooling benefits of a green roof.”
Yes, there are lots of plants that would be suitable that use less water than grass. Aptenia and various species of Sedum are examples.
The comment from Don Shor about water coming from wells for Dixon is partially incorrect. Dixon uses ground water exclusively for the older parts of town and partners with SID to supply water to the newer developments. SID is partners in water service under “joint powers” arrangements to treat and supply water to residents and businesses in Dixon and Suisun City.
The comment from Don Shor about water coming from wells for Dixon is partially incorrect. Dixon uses ground water exclusively for the older parts of town and partners with SID to supply water to the newer developments. SID is partners in water service under “joint powers” arrangements to treat and supply water to residents and businesses in Dixon and Suisun City.
The comment from Don Shor about water coming from wells for Dixon is partially incorrect. Dixon uses ground water exclusively for the older parts of town and partners with SID to supply water to the newer developments. SID is partners in water service under “joint powers” arrangements to treat and supply water to residents and businesses in Dixon and Suisun City.
The comment from Don Shor about water coming from wells for Dixon is partially incorrect. Dixon uses ground water exclusively for the older parts of town and partners with SID to supply water to the newer developments. SID is partners in water service under “joint powers” arrangements to treat and supply water to residents and businesses in Dixon and Suisun City.
Water in Dixon comes from two suppliers. California Water Service Co. provides water to the older parts of town, entirely from wells. The Dixon Solano Municipal Water Co., a partnership with Solano Irrigation District, provides water to the newer parts of town. According to the Dixon Solano Municipal Water Company, “the source of all drinking water for [DSMW] is groundwater.” Nobody in Dixon, to my knowledge, is drinking SID ditch water.
Water in Dixon comes from two suppliers. California Water Service Co. provides water to the older parts of town, entirely from wells. The Dixon Solano Municipal Water Co., a partnership with Solano Irrigation District, provides water to the newer parts of town. According to the Dixon Solano Municipal Water Company, “the source of all drinking water for [DSMW] is groundwater.” Nobody in Dixon, to my knowledge, is drinking SID ditch water.
Water in Dixon comes from two suppliers. California Water Service Co. provides water to the older parts of town, entirely from wells. The Dixon Solano Municipal Water Co., a partnership with Solano Irrigation District, provides water to the newer parts of town. According to the Dixon Solano Municipal Water Company, “the source of all drinking water for [DSMW] is groundwater.” Nobody in Dixon, to my knowledge, is drinking SID ditch water.
Water in Dixon comes from two suppliers. California Water Service Co. provides water to the older parts of town, entirely from wells. The Dixon Solano Municipal Water Co., a partnership with Solano Irrigation District, provides water to the newer parts of town. According to the Dixon Solano Municipal Water Company, “the source of all drinking water for [DSMW] is groundwater.” Nobody in Dixon, to my knowledge, is drinking SID ditch water.
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org
“Anonymous said…
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org“
I lived in Dixon 1976 – 85, when it was all supplied by CA Water Service Co. My farm is in the SID service area, has used SID water in the past, and a large SID line runs under my property (they just replaced the old concrete supply line, which was a pretty complicated job). I am very familiar with the SID water, although my own domestic water supply is a well.
Yes, it definitely tastes better than Davis ground water. It comes from Lake Berryessa, and Davis residents could be drinking that water as well if the city hadn’t opted out of it when Monticello Dam was built in the 1950’s. Berryessa provides a stable water supply with a multi-year buffer for drought years because of the size of the lake.
For the other readers: a lot of SID water which runs to farms is conveyed in open ditches, hence the moniker. But nobody drinks that. “Ditch water” was a joke.
“Anonymous said…
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org“
I lived in Dixon 1976 – 85, when it was all supplied by CA Water Service Co. My farm is in the SID service area, has used SID water in the past, and a large SID line runs under my property (they just replaced the old concrete supply line, which was a pretty complicated job). I am very familiar with the SID water, although my own domestic water supply is a well.
Yes, it definitely tastes better than Davis ground water. It comes from Lake Berryessa, and Davis residents could be drinking that water as well if the city hadn’t opted out of it when Monticello Dam was built in the 1950’s. Berryessa provides a stable water supply with a multi-year buffer for drought years because of the size of the lake.
For the other readers: a lot of SID water which runs to farms is conveyed in open ditches, hence the moniker. But nobody drinks that. “Ditch water” was a joke.
“Anonymous said…
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org“
I lived in Dixon 1976 – 85, when it was all supplied by CA Water Service Co. My farm is in the SID service area, has used SID water in the past, and a large SID line runs under my property (they just replaced the old concrete supply line, which was a pretty complicated job). I am very familiar with the SID water, although my own domestic water supply is a well.
Yes, it definitely tastes better than Davis ground water. It comes from Lake Berryessa, and Davis residents could be drinking that water as well if the city hadn’t opted out of it when Monticello Dam was built in the 1950’s. Berryessa provides a stable water supply with a multi-year buffer for drought years because of the size of the lake.
For the other readers: a lot of SID water which runs to farms is conveyed in open ditches, hence the moniker. But nobody drinks that. “Ditch water” was a joke.
“Anonymous said…
Nobody said they were drinking “ditch water” Don. Those of us who work for SID or use its water in Dixon, Suisun City, Fairfield, etc. find that insulting. Besides, it tastes better than that tap water in Davis. Ugh! Educate yourself about the water supply system for Solano County. http://www.sidwater.org“
I lived in Dixon 1976 – 85, when it was all supplied by CA Water Service Co. My farm is in the SID service area, has used SID water in the past, and a large SID line runs under my property (they just replaced the old concrete supply line, which was a pretty complicated job). I am very familiar with the SID water, although my own domestic water supply is a well.
Yes, it definitely tastes better than Davis ground water. It comes from Lake Berryessa, and Davis residents could be drinking that water as well if the city hadn’t opted out of it when Monticello Dam was built in the 1950’s. Berryessa provides a stable water supply with a multi-year buffer for drought years because of the size of the lake.
For the other readers: a lot of SID water which runs to farms is conveyed in open ditches, hence the moniker. But nobody drinks that. “Ditch water” was a joke.