November Parking Initiative Threatens "Green" San FranciscoPaul Hogarthbyline‚ Jul. 19‚ 2007San Franciscans pride themselves on being “green,” but an electorate that twice denied George Bush a single precinct will vote this November on a proposition that might as well ignore global warming. It would encourage more driving, weaken our public transit system, drive up the cost of housing, and hamstring innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Drafted by Downtown Business elites – and funded by Republican C.E.O. Don Fisher – the Parking Initiative is easily the worst thing on the ballot, and progressives must prioritize its defeat at all costs. If passed, it would set stringent parking requirements that will bring more cars Downtown, while tying the hands of neighborhoods who want to control their future and deserve concessions from developers. It will eliminate the incentive to build affordable housing, while letting homeowners put up a driveway – even if it means blocking a Muni stop. No matter how you cut it, the Parking Initiative stinks and must be soundly defeated. |