Both sides of PB zoning ordinance champion preservation

With both sides championing preservation, more than 300 people heard pro and con speeches on the divisive development ordinance at the Palm Beach Civic Association’s annual meeting at the Flagler Museum yesterday.

“It [commercial town-serving zoning] has protected all of Royal Poinciana Way and our other commercial areas for over 30 years,” Susan Markin, presenting the “no” side, told the Palm Beach Post. “There’s been moderate change, no over-development, no increase in condos and no strip malls. It’s working for us.”

However, those promoting the ordinance, known as the PUD-5, argue that it is the best way to preserve the town’s Main Street.

“Under the PUD-5, 18 of the 24 buildings in the area have preservation protection,” Michael Ainslie, advocating a “yes” vote, said. “This ordinance provides incentives for owners to preserve their buildings.”

Mayor Gail Coniglio is encouraging citizens to get out and vote on the ordinance no matter what side of the issue they stand on.

“I ask you for two things: Number one, vote,” Coniglio said. “Secondly, let us then hang up the boxing gloves and lift the heavy burden of election battles. Let us reunite as one town, renew neighborly courtesies, increase friendly discourse and restore peace.” [PBP] – Christopher Cameron