ANC Meeting Recap 11.12.08

Last night's meeting was jam-packed, and there wasn't much to discuss of particular note. A couple of things:

I made points of order on Commissioner Stephens' resolutions/letters on the Hilton Hotel and 18th Street DDOT/WASA issues. It's not that I don't support my fellow Commissioner, but he knew these issues were of concern ahead of time and it was unclear as to what the Commission was indeed voting on. I made a point that, moving forward, I would only be able to vote for language that was set, and not simply granting carte blanche to a Commissioner to write a letter expressing what may be a viewpoint that isn't shared by the majority of the Commissioners. We need to be clear and speak with one voice when we approve or disapprove issues, and I was glad to hear many of my fellow Commissioners in agreement.

On the new redevelopment along 14th Street, I was entirely in agreement with Chairman Estrada's original motion, which would have approved the parking reduction, approved the height increase for elevators, approved the variance for lot occupancy, and not approved the excemption for liquor licensed establishment increases. Unfortunately, the applicant had not worked with the Commission in good faith ahead of time, and we were not able to have a full dialogue and discussion on the issue. Had they worked with us, I'm sure we would have given full support to three of their requests, and that's unfortunate.

Finally, on the request to put in a permenant awning at the property on 1666 Connecticut, I was not able to support what I'm sure would eventually become a permanent structure enclosing an outdoor sidewalk cafe. The charm of sidewalk cafes are that they are open and lend life to the street and neighborhood. I'm fearful of more Annie's on our streets. I love Annie's and they're a great neighbor, but the enclosed front of the building impedes the sidewalk and doesn't fit with the charming character of the rest of 17th Street. It's grandfathered in, however, and I must say I eat and drink there frequently, and shall continue to do so!