Zoning in BRW's neighborhood

[Alex Thompson]

Here are two interesting bits on zoning in our neighborhood.  If you go here and play with the map you'll see that BRW is located in a large zone called the LMSD:

http://gismap.santa-monica.org/imf/imf.jsp?site=property

This zone is specially created for low built commercial & industrial, and also allows for artist studios.  Now go check out this article and you can find out about the current owner of the property which BRW is on:

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Santa+Monica+Studios+changes+hands+in+$27+million+deal:+NMS...-a0162303246

The owner acquired the property with the specific intent to build a large mixed used residential complex (read condos & apartments).  They paid a record price per sq ft for West LA.  However, the zoning will not permit such a development . . . and now if you read this:

http://surfsantamonica.com/ssm_site/the_lookout/news/News-2007/October-2007/10_24_07_Council_Extends_Development_Ordinance_for_Industrial_Areas.htm

You'll find that the city has specifically extended an ordinance which makes it more difficult for BRW's property owner to get approval of their development plans.

Politically speaking, BRW is located on a property which is in the middle of a huge political battle right now.

Alex

[david p.]

sounds like a hornets nest.
http://myspacetv.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=2729688

[Art]

Pretty interesting stuff... 

I read both articles, and took a look at the map, etc. and I can see why the 'landlord' doesn't want to 'deal' with anything like our bike-rack project at the moment. (he's got bigger fish to fry.) 

BUT - He probably wants to keep his units rented for the time being, too! Yes?

That 'plant monster' is growing 'into' the building, so you can probably 'document' the thing, and just take 'proper-maintenance' into your own hands, so to speak, and at the very least, TRIM the damn thing back a little...   Don'tcha think? 

...anyway, I can bring some 'trimming' tools if need be. 

[Alex Thompson]

We like the plant!!!