by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Fierce political battles over Amendment 4 have been waged for several years now, with the growth management amendment’s fate resting in the hands of voters when they head to the polls in November.
Between now and then, much airtime for paid advertisements and public displays from both support and opposition groups is to be expected as the issue is one of the hottest political topics in Florida.
What’s it say?
The amendment, as to be stated on the ballots:
“Public participation in local government comprehensive land use planning benefits the conservation and protection of Florida’s natural resources and scenic beauty and the long-term quality of life of Floridians. Therefore, before a local government may adopt a new comprehensive land use plan or amend a comprehensive land use plan, such proposed plan or plan amendment shall be subject to vote of the electors of the local government by referendum following preparation by the local planning agency, considering by the governing body as provided by general law, and notice thereof in a local newspaper of general circulation. Notice and referendum will be provided by general law. The Amendment shall become effective immediately upon approval by the electors of voters.”
But, what does it mean?
In 1985, Florida Legislature enacted The Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act that requires all Florida counties and municipalities to adopt Local Government Comprehensive Plans to guide future growth and development — including land use, housing, transportation and infrastructure, among other aspects. Local governments — in Duval County’s case its City Council — are able to send amendments to the Department of Community Affairs and affected agencies for recommendations, objections and a public notice of intent before potential approval. Amendment 4 would add to the process by submitting the comprehensive land use amendment to voters via a referendum, where they would have veto power. The amendments would be voted on during normal elections or special elections. Amendment 4 doesn’t cover re-zonings, variances, permits or annexations; just comprehensive plan changes.
How did it get on the ballot?
The amendment is often referred to as Florida Hometown Democracy in reference to the organization responsible for collecting more than the 670,000-plus signatures needed to place it on the ballot.
What Amendment 4 proponents say
According to the Hometown Democracy Web site, the proposal “gives the keys of community stability back to the voters” as well as lets voters “decide if a proposed plan change serves the public interest and will make their community a better place to live.” If they deem it does, the people will vote in approval. If not, they won’t. Thus the amendment adds an additional layer toward growth and growth management, with proponents arguing it would curb overdevelopment and unplanned growth.
What Amendment 4 opponents say
One of the main opposition groups, Floridians for Smarter Growth, argue Amendment 4, if enacted, will threaten Florida’s economic and quality-of-life future. In addition, the group argues the initiative places the decision in the hands of voters instead of the representatives they elected. Such a measure would add costs, bog down voters with lists of such changes and stall planned growth, according to arguments on the organization’s Web site.
When do voters vote on the issue?
In addition to other items and elections, voters will head to the polls Nov. 2. Until then, the campaigns for both sides will continue.
(Information regarding Amendment 4 and background information gathered from various sources and include: Florida Hometown Democracy, Floridians for Smart Growth and Florida Department of Community Affairs, Division of Community Planning.)
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