Our initial groups have designated Jane Jacobs’ “The Death and Life of Great American Cities” as the initial ‘perspective’ text for consideration. Jacob’s great work was considered heretical when it was first published in 1961. It took on the planning conventions of the day – urban renewal and growth of highways and interstates.
In her own words: “…what was getting immediately under my skin was this mad spree of deceptions and vandalism and waste that was called urban renewal. And the way it had been adopted like a fad and people were so mindless about it and so dishonest about what was being done. That’s what ticked me off, because I was working for an architectural magazine and I saw all this first hand and I saw how the most awful things were being excused.”
We will make recommendations directly to city government regarding specific improvements to strategic city operations or infrastructure that fit within the framework of “Death and Life of Great American Cities”.
For example, the committee would consider how urban planning concepts might enhance Annapolis in very specific terms but would be unconcerned with current issues such as specific parking problems or citizen complaints about public services. The Committee will not involve itself with issues relating to comprehensive planning.
In consultation with the committee, the Mayor will determine the future ‘perspectives’ under which the committee will make recommendations. The ‘perspectives’ would be world class and respected published sources relating to urban or town planning, economic development or other matters impacting Annapolis.
Therefore, the committee will be driven by philosophy first but will produce very specific and actionable recommendations. The recommendations should always support making Annapolis a more progressive city. The Mayor’s office and the Mayor’s Book Club would work jointly to implement its recommendations through administrative, legislative or actions of other committees or groups.
The committee is an open and fully democratic organization of the city authroized by city council. Anyone who purchases the texts being utilized during current considerations, reads them and attends a meeting will be considered a full member. Being a citizen of the city is not a requirement for membership.
We are also a future looking part of Annapolis Charter 300 -- the 300th anniversary of the city's charter that was proclaimed by Queen Anne in 1708. As such, we seek to be inclusive of the themes and goals of the Annapolis Charter 300 celebration.
Late Spring 2006 will bring a second round of Jacobian studies, a newly introduced perspectives series and a youth group. We are always looking for new perspectives. So join us!
For further information please contact us at [email protected].