Feeling Hot! Hot! Hot! by Marcia King-Gamble

www.lovemarcia.com

My name is Dania, that’s Dan-i-a, (not Dana,) Browne, and I’m the star of the hit sitcom, The Golden Rule. Yes, I have pink hair. I’m  hiding on Last Chance Beach because a sex tape went viral, and now I’m in danger of losing my job and my endorsements.

It’s a steamy, hot summer day here, and I’ve been asked by my publicist to interview George Johnston, Urban Designer, extraordinaire. Because I’m in hiding I’m sticking with the pseudonym, Marcia. 

George has been hired by some entity to plan and design what Last Chance Beach should look like in the future, and those of us who have homes here aren’t happy.

No one on Last Chance Beach wants anything to change. Those who own and rent, like things just the way they are. This is a safe haven for us, and it’s our last chance to find love. We don’t want anyone mucking that up. Now, on with the interview.

 Marcia: So, George Johnston of the million degrees, please tell us who hired you and why? Was it the municipality?

George:  I have a BS in Environmental Design and Planning, an MA in Architecture and in Town Design, plus over 20 years in private and public sector planning and land use planning. I was hired by an interested party to help craft a “vision” and land use plan for the next 20 years. We’re doing this in an effort to maintain and enhance the unique qualities and characteristics of  the island.

Marcia:  Wonderful. But how does the Legend of Last Chance Beach fit into your developmental plans?

George:  I don’t have development plans per say.  I was hired by an interested investor to help guide future development via their “vision” planning.  The investor recognizes the need to help preserve the unique characteristics of the island while allowing for manageable growth.  Generally, new development should occur near existing centers such as the downtown and the scattered businesses that dot the island.  In addition, scenic roadways leading from the bridge and ferry terminal to the town should be maintained and enhanced with vistas and some historical markers.  

Much of the island should remain as a preserve with very limited development as it acts as the island watershed providing year around, clean water for residents and businesses.  The main part of the island will ultimately grow but at a reasonable pace with a strong architectural code to maintain its rich architectural heritage.  Beaches should remain public overall with plenty of easy access except in areas designated as ecological preserves.  Last Chance Beach should be enhanced with walking paths and picnic areas for families and young lovers.

Marcia: What about the families who have lived here forever? What about the summer residences? Do you plan on preserving them?

George:  Many of the residential structures are considered historical at the behest of the owners and will maintain their historical significance over time.  The island (by virtue of being an island) does have a certain “carrying capacity” given the ecology, limited rainfall and other biological and geological aspects.  Future growth will sustain itself within that context such that island shouldn’t over develop and force long-time family’s away due to over-valued properties and the resultant property taxes.

Marcia: There are many older establishments like my family’s bungalow. Rods, the old fisherman’s hangout at the end of the pier, The Sands Hotel, The J. Rogers for seafood, and Waves the convenience mart. They’re landmarks, aren’t they?

George:  Yes, many of these establishments are already historical landmarks or are slated to be.  The island has a strong preservation ethic and local historical society.  However, not every building or structure can be designated as “historical”.  Rather than force private property owners to accept a historical designation, incentives such as tax breaks should be pursued instead.

Marcia: And if the town doesn’t agree with this interested investor’s plans, what can we do?

George:  The vision and plan for the island is up to the “stakeholders” – i.e. property owners, business entities, and other interest groups – not me.  My job is to help clarify their vision by providing expertise in urban design and ecological planning.  Ultimately, through such combined efforts, a “plan” will result that all can be proud of and worth caring about.

Marcia: Thank you George. You talk a good talk. Now let’s see what happens.

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ABOUT MARCIA KING-GAMBLE

Marcia King-Gamble is a National Bestselling author of over 45 books and novellas. She originally hails from a sunny Caribbean island where the sky and ocean are the same mesmerizing shade of blue. This travel industry executive and current world traveler has spent most of life in the United States.

Marcia claims exercise, traveling to exotic locales, and caring for her animal family, keep her sane.

My latest release can be found on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Heart-H-Caldwells-Book-ebook

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