ZBA Backlog Costing Millions
Editorial on the zoning board of adjustment.
A standard variance hearing for a multi-family property now takes 9 months to schedule. In an environment where capital costs 8-9%, carrying land for nearly a year without moving dirt destroys the pro-forma of mid-market developers. The system is designed for a pre-2010 reality.
Common Mistakes by Developers
- Requesting continuances without realizing it adds 4 months to the timeline.
- Failing to meet with RCOs before filing the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is by-right development faster?
Yes, over-the-counter permits can be issued in 2-3 weeks, avoiding the ZBA entirely.
What is City Council doing?
Some council members are pushing to expand the ZBA staff, but budget constraints remain.