The New York Times Sums Up Its Feelings About the LPC
December 6, 2008 Editorial
Improving the Landmarks Process
Judge Marilyn Shafer of the New York State Supreme Court ruled last month that the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission habitually acted in a manner that was “arbitrary and capricious” and ordered the commission to conduct its business in a more timely manner. Her conclusions are welcome and frustratingly familiar to New Yorkers.
The city plans to appeal. Instead, it should reform the commission, which is all that stands between the enormous pressures for development in this city and its priceless architectural heritage.
In a recent series, The Times’s Robin Pogrebin detailed many of the commission’s dysfunctional ways, including inadequate record-keeping, protracted delays and a lack of transparency. The commission’s notable successes – creating historic districts and protecting significant buildings – have been diminished by its notable failures, including its decision to let 2 Columbus Circle be substantially rebuilt without a public hearing.
Part of the trouble is that the commission enjoys little political independence. The chairman serves at the mayor’s pleasure; the 11 unpaid commissioners see only the cases the chairman recommends. These are attributes that a pro-development mayor is not likely to want to change.
We urge Mayor Michael Bloomberg to give preservation more weight in city planning. The next landmarks chairman should come from preservation circles. The commissioners need more independence and authority. There needs to be better communication with the Buildings Department to prevent the confusion that has sometimes resulted in the destruction of a building slated for landmark consideration.
The most valuable change would be to address Judge Shafer’s concerns. Landmark decisions should be made expeditiously and transparently with a clear public record of the commission’s decision-making. The proper balance between healthy development and preservation cannot be found unless the commission plays a more vigorous and public role.
Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company