4082262 Resolution 19-692, "Streetscape Reconstruction Second Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2012"

A RESOLUTION

 

19-692 

 

IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

 

November 15, 2012

 

To declare the existence of an emergency with respect to the need to authorize a building

owner or tenant of a building owner to reconstruct building projections in public space following the completion of the 18th Street streetscape construction project.

            RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this resolution may be cited as the “Streetscape Reconstruction Second Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2012”.

 

Sec. 2. (a)  More than 20 ongoing and soon-to-begin roadway construction projects threaten the rights of small and local property owners and business owners to the ongoing enjoyment of bay windows, staircases, patios, sidewalk cafes, and other building projections that exist or existed in public space before the commencement of streetscape projects.

(b)  Small and local businesses and property owners are disproportionately affected by roadway construction because they are less likely to have resources to survive a period of reduced income during the construction period.

(c)  The impact on small business owners is compounded if they are unable to reconstruct, or are delayed in reconstructing building projections that may be integral to the operation of their businesses.

(d)  Businesses are particularly vulnerable during this economic downturn and have fewer resources to suffer through the delays and expenses, that might be incurred while seeking approval to reconstruct building projections after streetscape projects.

            (e)  The Council originally passed emergency legislation, effective January 12, 2012, to deal with this situation.  The temporary legislation passed by the Council on February 7, 2012, is set to expire on December 8, 2012.  The same conditions that existed at the beginning of this year regarding this situation exist today, requiring the continuation of this legislation.

 

Sec. 3.  The Council of the District of Columbia determines that the circumstances

enumerated in section 2 constitute emergency circumstances making it necessary that the

Streetscape Reconstruction Second Emergency Act of 2012 be adopted after a single reading.

 

Sec. 4. This resolution shall take effect immediately.