My Work Here Is Done

From PhonlamaiPhoto, iStock by Getty Images

Recently, I wrote about the coming update to Richardson's Comprehensive Plan. I talked about desirable features like walkability, sustainability, and housing affordability. In this follow-up piece, instead of expanding on my answers by writing long arguments in favor of those things, I decided to ask ChatGPT to do it for me. I asked ChatGPT to "explain why Richardson Texas should do zoning reform." In less than a second, GhatGPT produced an argument that included my own points and more. ChatGPT doesn't appear to know anything about zoning that's specific to Richardson, but its general knowledge is applicable to Richardson. My work here soon may be done.

What is a Comprehensive Plan Anyway?

Source: City of Richardson.

If you haven't been hearing a lot about the City of Richardson's Comprehensive Plan, you haven't been paying attention to this space. But, just in case you aren't aware, the City is just starting a year-long effort to update ours, the first such update since 2009. If you like recent zoning decisions, give more than a little thanks to that 2009 Comprehensive Plan. The City has been following the instructions laid down way back then. If you think recent decisions leave more and more to be desired, well, blame that same Plan. Now is your chance to get your careabouts captured in the next Comprehensive Plan, which will guide development for the next decade.

Where is the Institutional Jealousy?

Democratic institutions rely on institutional jealousies to prevent one branch of government from abusing its power. This is famously woven into the US Constitution through a system of checks and balances. The health of our democracy depends on institutions jealously guarding their powers from encroachment by other branches. All I'm going to say about Washington is that there's a lesson that we can learn about separation of powers that applies to Richardson, Texas.

Mayor Dubey In His Own Words, Unpacked

[Newly elected Mayor Bob] Dubey spoke with Community Impact just after the election about becoming mayor, what he hopes to bring to City Council and some of the projects he’s looking forward to addressing over in the future.

Source: Community Impact.

My thanks to Community Impact for its continuous news coverage of Richardson. It helps make informed citizens. Community Impact edited the interview with Mayor Dubey for clarity and brevity. Now, let me try to unpack it.

POTD: Médailles Souvenirs

From 2022 10 25 Monte Carlo and Nice

This photo-of-the-day is from Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Monte Carlo. It's best known as the final resting place of Princess Grace of Monaco. But I found it amusing that inside this holy church, a few steps from Princess Grace's grave, tourists can buy souvenir medals from a vending machine. Unlike Monte Carlo's slot machines, here every coin returns a winner. Since 1996, collectors in France have been able to purchase such souvenirs at over 300 tourist locations, including churches.