Crack open developers' financial books, panel aspirant says

(Park Record) A candidate seeking a seat on the Park City Planning Commission insinuated that the influential City Hall panel should be delving into developers' business plans and financing as it considers whether to approve projects.

Larry Kase's comments during an interview conducted by Mayor Dana Williams and the Park City Council were similar to those he made when he filled out an application for the Planning Commission position. They likely would have surprised some people listening to the interview.

The Planning Commission does not have the authority to crack open the financial books of a developer. The panel instead weighs a development proposal against City Hall regulations.

There would need to be sweeping changes to the mechanics of the planning and zoning processes at City Hall to provide the Planning Commission the authority to look into a developer's financial books. Landowners and developers would almost certainly oppose such changes.

Kase, though, said City Hall is entitled to more information about the financing behind developments.

"Do you have the money," Kase, who once unsuccessfully campaigned for a City Council spot, said, describing information that the Planning Commission should be compiling.

Original Article