2006 ARTS & URBAN RENEWAL PETITION
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PETITION
We are advocates for an emerging model of Community-Based Urban Renewal as opposed to Gentrification (an imperial/colonial model in which development displaces local residents, disregarding history and culture and impacts to environment).
We advocate the preservation of defunct industrial spaces to retain local productive capacity and cultural heritage.
We advocate the restoration
of this underutilized industrial capacity to meet local needs and for
innovations in mixed-use community-driven economic growth, focusing on the
arts, education and sustainable technology.
We support community ownership and cooperative models as an alternative to the failures of for-profit private development.
We propose a major
mural campaign in
Recognizing access to information technology
as a human
right, we advocate for free community broadband wireless and public
computing facilities.
We advocate for local organic gardens and farms.
GOALS
SURVEY FACILITIES:
survey of existing live/work facilities and underutilized industrial
capacity
SURVEY ARTS ORGANIZATIONS:
survey strengths and needs, form working groups/partnerships
[Produce book/film/website w/quantified and subjective information – existing abilities, needs, suggestions]
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL PROMOTION: compare and share w/other audiences, cultural
exchange & sister cities.
EVENTS: regular
public events and performances
FUNDING: buy out
leases on existing facilities and put them into nonprofit or community
ownership. New
facilities @ $1/year lease redeveloped by local community members.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION: Warehouse/Arts
district w/revised Zoning & Permits. Update
and streamline permitting process to facilitate mixed-use community development.