Tracking Teardowns
Filed Under: Quick Hit
Poynter Online reports from New Jersey on Montclair-based site Baristanet’s attempts to track the changes in their neighborhood through a Google Maps mashup. [via Lost Remote]
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cher | Jan 4, 2008 | Reply
There are valid arguments on both sides of the teardown controversy. Redevelopment is not only eminent in many areas, but in changing demographics it makes sense. From a market perspective, it is usually preferable that new houses be consistent with the character of the neighborhood, even though in some areas, we are not quite seeing that balance yet. However, restricting teardowns and infill development also restricts the rights of property owners and may devalue property .
Tighter constraints on teardowns further narrows the potential market for your property. I believe that property owners and the market, rather than zoning boards, should determine housing aesthetics and size. In a country founded on private property rights, wouldn’t that be more in line with our national historical character?
Or do we want to allow those rights to be chipped away at, one regulation at a time?
MLROBERTS | Jan 28, 2008 | Reply
Extremes on either side of this issue undesireable. I agree that property rights are very important. Do you feel the same way about smoking? Say I am in a restraunt and you are smoking in the booth next to me. You have every right to smoke and do whatever you want to your body. But when your smoke drifts over into my booth, and starts to impact MY health, where do your rights end and where do mine begin? What if what one person builds on their property makes another property less desireable or less marketable, blocks sunlight and potentially encroaches on privacy?…… I think there are viable alternatives/solutions that can work for both “sides”. There has to be a balance between what is best for each individual , but we all have to consider the impact of our actions on others. It is a fine balance, for sure. Some redevelopment in many older neighborhoods is necessary-quality redevelopment-the kind that enhances and builds upon the best qualities of established, neighborhoods and their character (which is what in large part, makes it most desireable), but, can accomodate changing lifestyles, preferences, property rights and can help ensure property values for ALL. Again extremes on either side of the issue are really, undesireable.