Fuel Group, developer of the proposed Westin Hotel and Residences, has sued the City of St. Petersburg for denying their building application. Orginally Fuel Group was going to built a 39 story tower at the corner of 1st St N and 5th Ave N, but reduced the size to appease the neighbors. They still objected, saying it was not appropriate for the edge of the city near the neighborhood. The appeal to the City Council did not get the decision overturned - the council members listened to their constituents.
In Tampa a similar situation has gone on for the last few years - Citivest applied for a permit to built a condominium tower near Hyde Park, and had objects from the neighborhood that it was inconsistent. Again, the city sided with the landowners. In circuit court, the developer won as the judge ordered the city to follow its own zoning rules rather than emotions of the neighbors. Fuel Group would certainly see this as a positive precedent.
Check my crystal ball on the beginning of August ...
Sharon,
So now you have a crystal ball?:)
Have a Happy....Healthy and prosperous New Year
Neal - only on a few things that are crystal ball clear. Though I do have another - again not rocket science - prediction for the real estate market here in Florida in 2008. It will be Interesting!
Have a great 2008!