The future of the Edgewater is uncertain. Duh. Ald. Mark Clear gave me a list of the hurdles the project has to face next week. These votes are all scheduled for Tuesday. That's not to say that they will all be addressed Tuesday, however. There will likely be lengthy debate on each item.
1. Conditional use appeal. Neighboring property owners are appealing the Plan Commission's decision to grant the conditional use permit. 2/3 vote (14) required to reverse or modify the action of Plan Commission. Part of the drama here is about whether to even hear the appeal or not (details in the City Attorney memo). I will recommend that the council hear the appeal. (Note that it's a bit confusing; a "no" vote on this item favors the project.)
2. Landmarks appeal. The developer is appealing the Landmarks Commission's denial of the certificate of appropriateness. 2/3 vote (14) required to reverse or modify the action of Landmarks.
3. Rezoning to PUD. Normally 11 votes, now 15 votes due to a protest petition filed by neighboring property owners.
4. TIF loan. 11 votes needed to pass.
5. Amendment to 1965 Wis. Ave. vacation ordinance. 11 votes needed to pass.
As you can see, the majorities necessary for some of these votes gives opponents of the project many opportunities to block it. Although the TIF loan is perhaps the most controversial aspect of the project, it may be an easier vote to win (for project supporters) than the votes requiring 3/4 majorities.
Look out for the vote on the Landmarks certificate of appropriateness. If that fails, then the developers have no choice but to either give up or redesign the development yet again. So opponents of the plan only need six reliable votes and this project may very well be dead.