January Message

As we start 2006, it is time set our goals for the coming year. CONA had an active 2005 as we highlighted issues ranging from crime to Green Cities. In some cases like Green Cities, it was widely embraced and 2006 should see the beginnings of implementing polices that will make for a more efficient and greener city. In other cases like how to combat crime/community policing/and staffing levels, it is a continuing conversation.

Please come to the CONA meeting with ideas for priorities for 2006. We will attempt to list and group them for you. We will send these out to the neighborhood associations for feedback and vote on the priorities at the February meeting.

The long process of updating the 1977 LDR (Land Development Regulations or zoning) is coming to a finish during 2006. Hundreds of people of made suggestions and comments as the process has proceeded. Bob Jeffrey will present the proposal to CONA this month before it goes to the Planning Commission. Although zoning sounds boring, it is the rules that we use to decide what kind of community we want to build. The impact can not be overstated. Bob should be congratulated for leading this huge job with a consensus building style.

CONA receives dozens of notices of proposed zoning changes, variances, etc. each month. One notice should be passed on. On Tuesday, Jan 17th, 4:00 PM, the St. Petersburg Planning Commission will hold a public workshop at City Hall in the City Council Chambers to solicit citizen input “regarding the City’s 2007 Comprehensive Plan… A major issue identified is REDEVELOPMENT IN THE COASTAL HIGH HAZARD AREA”. In layman’s terms, the question is should we allow more density in the lowest flood zone, category A, in St. Petersburg? Please consider attending and providing your common sense opinion.

Happy New Year! May 2006 have fewer hurricanes.

Karl Nurse
President,
Council of Neighborhood Associations