Hometown Democracy did not make it on the 2008 ballots, but do not think it will go away. According to the Hometown Democracy website, they are only short approximately 5000 signatures. The new goal is for Hometown Democracy to be on the 2010 ballot. I don’t know about you, but the thought of Hometown Democracy passing is just plain scary. I am not just worried because I work in Land Development, but as a voter, I worry. Recently, I went to the last primary election for my area.
The turnout was 20%, which is just pathetic. So, if only 20% of the people turnout in small races like the primary, want to take a guess as to who will vote for comp plan amendments? I would have to guess that probably greater than 80% of our population has no idea what a comp plan amendment is. The other freighting statistic is that the entire county would get to vote on changes that have little or no impact on their area. Early numbers indicate that voters may be asked to go to the polls to make a decision on 200-300 changes per year. Does that seem realistic for the average person?
The other issue is the economics behind the decision. If the general public truly feels that there is too much construction (even if it is viable for the economy), the voters may not approve the necessary changes. What does this mean for the area? If the comp plan changes are not passed, local areas could see issues with economic uncertainty. This means fewer jobs, less money coming in for taxes and an overall decrease in dollars spent. During the economic times we are going though now, is that really a good idea? Frankly, I am not quite sure why our current system does not work. I know of counties that are anti-growth and I rarely see a comp plan change to rural areas. Most of the development has been clustered in designated areas. Can the landscape be the same as twenty years ago? No, as a nation we are growing, we need more room. Also, Florida is one of the most desirable states to reside in. Florida is also the 20th largest economy in the world, yes the WORLD! So, why can’t we allow the election system to work the way it is supposed to. If a community is anti-growth and they elect a leader that is pro-growth, vote the elected official out of office…SIMPLE.
I have heard people say government is too willing to take on big projects because of the tax base increase. Although this may be true some of the times, if the people have elected the right official, the official is representing the people’s voice. The issue goes back to the staggering 20% voter turnout.
How do we, as an industry deal, with Hometown Democracy? EDUCATE, EDUCATE, EDUCATE. Make sure people truly understand what the ballot means. The original language of the amendment read, “Public participation in local government comprehensive land use planning benefits Florida’s natural resources, scenic beauty and citizens.” Reading the original language of the amendment, it is easy to see why so many people originally thought the amendment would be a good idea. Luckily, that wording will not appear on a ballot, should Hometown Democracy ever get enough signatures.
My final thought for this issue, just remember the pregnant pigs amendment!
