Comments on: Marina City Board Promises Never to Support Landmark Status

By: Mindy Verson

Mindy Verson — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 02:43:45 +0000

I know you’ll think I’m nuts, but the paint on the HOB Hotel doesn’t bother me that much. I am more offended by the crappy conditions of the lobbies inside the towers.

I am all for whatever makes the building worth more on every level. Historically, financially and
architecturally. But it must be balanced with the real repairs that the building needs, not just for historical purposes. This board has driven our financial condition into the ground, so they must repair that first.

I do wish there was better communication so that renters would know what is going on in Board meetings, but I guess there are limits as far as imformation dissemination goes when the financial risk of owning is not a part of living here.

By: Anon

Anon — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 16:26:58 +0000

I’m sure it becomes more difficult to own when it is a landmark, but at the same time it prevents shoddy restorations and horrible changes like painting over the HOB building.

By: Mindy Verson

Mindy Verson — Sat, 23 Dec 2006 17:21:38 +0000

Hi Mike,

The agreement was discussed in open board meetings with owners present. I was told by board members of that era that the agreement was in the works for 5 years. The condo lawyer at the time was draining the board for fees and as soon as they got new representation, he was able to hammer out an agreement that essentially saved them from bankruptcy. I was told it was a very complicated process and the only real solution to the problems of the building at the time.

I believe you’ve received e-mails from a former board member that hopefully cleared up the reasons why this agreement was put in place.

The agreement does not prevent owners or others from trying to achieve landmark status, but I don’t really think the commercial (majority owners) folks will ever allow it to happen.

I absolutely respect the opinions of those who want landmark status. God knows, the building is iconic, but as an owner there can be many unwanted financial burdens that come with it.
Changes that cannot be made. Restorations become much more expensive, etc.

Thanks. Happy Holidays

By: jena

jena — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 18:34:10 +0000

Uhh… I know that I know nothing of contract law, or real-estate law but doesn’t the lack of landmark status leave the building (which stands on PRIME property) open to the possibiliy of being purchased and God forbid, torn down? Doesn’t ladmark status protect such architectural wonders like Marina Towers from things like that?
-J

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 14:53:45 +0000

Wow! Seems like a betrayal of the longer-term interest of the owners. These towers clearly deserve landmark status.