all excellent suggestions, Beth. I just would note that the newest homes usually have the most efficient appliances, and with codes constantly being updated, more efficient construction. It's more likely that a new refrigerator will be more efficient than an older one, and a new home will have better insulation, more efficient AC, etc. I do not know what the state of MV's requirements for new residential construction is - I'd be curious.

Excellent, Beth! I agree with you on all points. While current requirements and codes are great for establishing at least minimum compliance with certain sustainability goals, there is always more that can be done, and your suggestions, if considered, would certainly raise the bar.

I suggest we let the developers know the limits on how much traffic they can generate, how high they can build, noise limits, etc. then let them build whatever they like there. This method of zoning is called "performance-based", and one of the best things about it is that it sets limits while reducing the impact of the public's and City's arbitrary tastes and caprices on the owner's property rights.

Did anybody reading this page attend the study session the Planning Dept. held on Sept. 16? Sustainability is just one of countless unsolved problems with the Minton site's development plan submitted by a remarkably disillusioned developer, Prometheus. In addition to the matter of how much -- make that LITTLE -- sustainability that company's plans call for, there are serious issues with density, parking, traffic flow, and aesthetics.

On the first matter, the developer's proposal completely disregards both the General Plan and Precise Plan for that site, building at several times the density called for in those plans! Parking and traffic flow have been presented through rose-colored glasses; even a child knows that for every new home there's an adverse impact on traffic. As for the proposed buildings' looks? Good God, the Soviet Union built better-looking residences. This is madness, folks -- pure madness! Don't let a developer with a fat wallet and promises of Shangri La housing step all over City Hall and Mtn. View residents.

Speak up or you'll see one of the worst excuses for a development in your own back yard.