[Maillist] Update for JHNA - Property at MLK and West Avenue

[Mark W. Seeger]

Dear JHNA:

The following events have recently transpired on behalf of the JHNA.  In an effort to keep our membership fully informed, this information is being disseminated through e-mail, posted on our web-site and hand distributed to members who do not have access to electronic media.
  a.. On September 30th, a quorum of the JHNA membership voted to negotiate with the developer of the property at the corner of Martin Luther King and West avenue, based on the following criteria that were compiled by a committee chaired by Gayle Brown:
    1.. The density and high-end value of any development should be compatible with the original structures in the neighborhood.  We would like to see the square footage and value of some of the units increased.

    2.. Desirable height should be no higher than the current multi-family dwellings existing in the neighborhood.  With the current underground parking the visible height will be about 4 stories. The elevation of the lot makes it appear that a 6-story structure would loom above everything else in the neighborhood, but setbacks might be able to minimize this. 

    3.. We would like for parking entrances and actual parking to be concealed from street view as far as possible.

    4.. Appearance and landscaping must be compatible with the historic character of the neighborhood.  The look of individual units with some ground floor occupancy would be desirable.  A myriad of architectural details should be used to enhance the traditional look  such as balconies, arches, stone, brick and masonry . 

    5.. The footprint for the building as requested with more ground coverage would be acceptable if the design, height, setback, concealed parking and entrances, and landscaping make a friendly welcoming entry for all units.

    6.. Some sort of covenant concerning owner occupancy should be in place. A minimum of 90% of the units must be owner occupied.  The commitment made by the current developer to make it his home should be honored for at least 5 years.

  b.. Since the September 30th meeting of JHNA, the officers of the JHNA have attempted to negotiate the above in good faith with the developer and have not been able to reach a position that satisfied both parties.  At this time, the developer has communicated an intent to seek zoning changes that do not meet the above expressed goals of JHNA and will be taking steps to gain necessary zoning variances and endorsements to move forward with some of his original designs, height and density goals.  

Our President will send additional communications to the membership as updates are warranted.  Your support of this process has been greatly appreciated and it is the goal of our association to keep you as informed as possible about the issues that impact our neighborhood.

Regards,

Mark Seeger, Secretary - JHNA



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