Aforementioned JLF analyst Michael Sanera has published a planner’s glossary to help Raleigh residents really understand Raleigh’s 2030 comprehensive plan. But the terms apply equally well here in G’boro.
Here’s how Sanera defines ‘sustainability’:
For example, the term is often described as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.”
This definition ignores the principles of resource economics and assumes that we know today the needs of future generations. Imagine the generations of the 1950s —or even the 1980s — trying to anticipate the present generation’s desire for WiFi. Sustainability is most often used as a political weapon by those who want to control development based on their personal ideological preferences.
“Mixed-use” is defined as “nostalgia-based attempts to recreate an idealized past with no considerations for the changing, evolving desires of modern consumers.”
Turns out mixed-use development for the corner of S. Elm and Lee Streets —where the downtown luxury hotel was going to be located —- might be back in play. And since the federal government doesn’t exactly embrace reality, it would indeed be weird if Greensboro didn’t get some cash to get something built.
Update: Here’s video of Michael Sanera discussing his glossary.
