05-02-2011, 06:54 AM
Actually, having attended many Orchidland community association meetings in the past, I must admit, I thought the discussion of the KTA proposal was quite civilized and respectful. There was no time limit placed on the presenters, they made their case and asked for comments. They received comments (almost universally in opposition), but the comments were thoughtful and based on logical concerns. Several folks thanked KTA for recognizing the need for more stores down our way -- I think the general consensus was "good idea, bad location". But many of those who opposed the development also pushed to have a vote by the full membership (not just those attending the meeting) to ensure that any Board position reflect the entire community -- knowing full well that mainland owners might not be as sensitive to the concerns of local residents, and might vote in favor of the KTA plan (seeing it as something that might improve their property value).
The developers were aware of some of the concerns and noted that they have been monitoring the PunaWeb discussion about the issue. And maybe it was just my biased perspective, but I didn't get the sense that the developers and their consultant felt optimistic about the plan's chances even before they started their presentation. They noted that KTA would not proceed if they couldn't install a traffic light on 130 or if there was significant community opposition.
I understand KTA's concerns about the cost of infrastructure improvements that would be necessary to locate in any of the approved community centers within the developments, but it seems to me that they should pursue public/private partnerships (such as tax incentives, etc.) to offset these costs rather than trying to do an end-run around the existing CDP.
The developers were aware of some of the concerns and noted that they have been monitoring the PunaWeb discussion about the issue. And maybe it was just my biased perspective, but I didn't get the sense that the developers and their consultant felt optimistic about the plan's chances even before they started their presentation. They noted that KTA would not proceed if they couldn't install a traffic light on 130 or if there was significant community opposition.
I understand KTA's concerns about the cost of infrastructure improvements that would be necessary to locate in any of the approved community centers within the developments, but it seems to me that they should pursue public/private partnerships (such as tax incentives, etc.) to offset these costs rather than trying to do an end-run around the existing CDP.