Roswell City Council, the DDA, and our Property-- The" Southern Skillet"

So, last night was a bit of a surprise. This issue proved to be more divisive than we realized. Councilman Mike Palermo introduced a revised provision that stipulated Council oversight of the pre-development process at key points throughout. The DDA stated that they would not be amenable to the proposed arrangement and suggested that the Council handle the dealings themselves. While there were viable alternatives (consultants, etc...) that could have been considered to handle the process, some council members** did not want to lose the involvement of the DDA. After lengthy "discussion" by Council and the DDA, accusations by some that mistrust of the DDA members was at the heart of the provision, and public comment including the reading of our petition, the Council voted against the provision. The services of the DDA were retained, and the process will move forward. We'd like to clarify a few things- -Never did we question the integrity of any of the DDA members. However, we do believe in a "trust but verify" process. Any thriving organization has such measures in place. -Similar to any public company with a board of directors that is responsible to its shareholders, our Council is responsible and accountable to us- the Roswell Citizens. This property is city owned, and we feel we deserve accountability and direct representation. -5 1/2 acres with 3 at the sidewalks was one of the provisions approved. This property is currently allowed four stories, so this is now an "entitlement". It is our understanding that the DDA pushed for this because they felt like it would attract developers and allow for creativity in design. Additionally and thankfully, a 30 unit/acre cap was approved. While we are disappointed that the DDA refused to allow the Council to participate and while we don't completely understand their reasoning, we remain hopeful that they will take our citizen input and the best interests of Roswell into account when they are considering their fiduciary responsibilities to the city and their larger responsibility to develop this property to the long term economic benefit for the city and its residents. PLEASE email your councilmen if you have concerns or questions. Please also contact the DDA! While they chose not to work with our Council, they do want to hear from us! **Voting FOR council oversight and therefore removing the DDA from the process by their choice-- Palermo, Zapata, Igleheart **Voting against council oversight and therefore granting complete DDA control until final review-- Horton, Orlans, Diamond. Mayor Wood broke the 3-3 tie and voted against council oversight as well.