For those developers and planners frustrated by not being able to push projects past local opposition, writer Garret Keizer offers his formula for getting nearly any project approved.
"Fortunately for America and its future, a formula exists whose careful application seldom fails. It deserves to be better known. Here it is."
"Delay announcing your development for as long as possible. Never underestimate the element of surprise. This is not merely a matter of catching your opponents off-guard."
"Never lose an opportunity to outlast your opponents by outspending them. If there's a formal approval process, do everything in your power to prolong it. Amend your proposal. Reschedule your testimony. The new paradigm of "let them eat cake" is "let them hold a bake sale" -- again and again."
"Exploit local divisions."
"Ingratiate yourself with the local authorities."
Read the full story: How to build whatever you want
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Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
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University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS)
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
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