Good conversation on both sides of D

I hosted a Coffee for proponents and oponents of Residence D zoning. Frank Raeon, a D supporter, led a good, informative discussion. A total of 9 of us sat down. Not sure if anyone's mind was changed, but I learned some things. Of note:

ZONE D
-if D passes, there will be 3 phases or "gates" for a D development to pass through: ARB, Planning Committee, Council
-each of these needs to be independent to be effective
-Planning Commission and ARB are independent groups not directly affiliated with Council
-Planning Commission and ARB need to act more independently
-There are trust issues with the Nolen/Thorndike/East/West neighborhood based on how D transpired
-I believe (Cortney's opinion) that Jordan Park size/mass was an honest mistake (others in the room didn't), but we should learn from its failures and its successes. We now know what 47' x 1 block long looks like.

PLANNING/FUTURE
-Most villages (Mariemont included) react to todays needs but don't spend time setting future vision
-Mariemont will stumble in the next 10 years without a rallying vision of the future.
-Tax base is vital for economic vitality
-Mariemont suffers with no on staff planner/administrator. Grant money flows, just not here

What I really liked about the event was the honest, open, respectful sharing of ideas and beliefs. This silly national trend of screaming and yelling makes headlines but doesn't do anyone any good. A spirited debate and mutual respect is required, and we had that last night.

Cortney