Some days, I feel like I’m in a minority of about three people who think that government should protect society from evil elements, not ugly ones. Most politicos these days agree that government needs to regulate the design of cities. Building heights and setbacks, when regulated, regardless of how, are supposed to create positive energy to improve the economy. I think it’s a big, fat lie.
Nonetheless, in Asheville, the Downtown Commission has been advising city council on design elements appropriate for legislation. As it turns out, the board hasn’t been too particular about regulating itself with bylaws kinds of thingies – until now.