Sunday, January 7, 2007
We're Split on Retail... Now What?!
A recent survey of Chamber membership identified most members do not want a large retail store in Anacortes. Conversely, a survey of FHOG members indicated most residents want "improved shopping options", but it also showed we are split on what kind of retailer comes to town or where we should put it. What should the city do now? Do we have more 3 minute speeches in front of city council (with predictable results) or should we try another approach? Any suggestions?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
The question to direct to the City Council should be, "How do you reconcile the apparent contradiction between the newly adopted Comp Plan and the actions of the Planning Commission and City Council". Referring to the 2007 Comp Plan and spefically the Commercial Goals and Policies, Goal #1 is to increase retail sales trade. Without considering conditional use applications or rezoning, all increased retail sales trade is confined to the CBD or Commercial strip running the length of Commercial Ave. This leaves very little space to establish larger complexes to accomodate stores exceeding 3-5,000 square feet. One need only look at the size of existing parcels in this zone to recognize their sizes range from 3,000 to 20,000 square feet. At 50% of max land use that equates to 1,500 to 10,000 square foot structures, not counting square footage necessary for parking or ingress/egress. To effect Goal #1 there must be consideration given to retail activity outside the Commercial zones. Otherwise there just isn't enough room.
We are split on retail. how?
Those who patronize Burlington and Mt.Venon and spend a lot of money there would be in favor of retail development.Those who dont spend much realy dont care but are happy
with the status quo which is...well go down town and apraise the retail situation.Oh yes one other thing those in favor of real retail are tired of paying the property taxs to support the status quo
Post a Comment