Slow Down!

Acting Gov. Codey extended the order to delay the fast-track legislation for developers. This is a law, passed last summer in three days with almost no debate, which grants permits to developers if state agencies don't answer within 45 days. The implementaion of the law is delayed only until portions which conflict with federal law are reconciled.

This law is a sprawl nightmare, and should be repealed. I understand the delay in processing is a deterrent to some development and often over-long, but the impact of any development in Our Fair State should be studied thoroughly before it is rushed through. Forgive me, but it bears repeating: throwing another Wall-Mart and some McMansions up on every cornfield hasn't helped Our Fair State so far (see the state of property taxes and the $4bil deficit for examples), what makes anyone think it will in the future? Shouldn't we spend some time looking before we leap?

There are bills to repeal the fast-tracklaw, S2157 and A3650, which are both sitting in committe for more than six months. Now we're in summer and nothing will happen. But a delay in the implementation of this law is a step in the right direction.