Jim Campbell says he understands development in the Destination Medical Center footprint can change unexpectedly.
At the same time, the DMC Corp. board member said he hopes developers understand when policy changes as a result.
"The whole DMC process came together very quickly," he said. "We're learning by doing here."
Campbell's comment came as the board approved an outline of review expectations for projects that deviate from plans that have already been approved.
The new policy, which is similar to one passed by the Rochester City Council earlier this month, comes months after plans for a hotel at the southeast corner of the Broadway Avenue and Center Street intersection were modified to eliminate 33 units of residential housing without city council or DMCC board review.
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While DMCC board members pointed out the new policy shouldn't be seen as a reflection on past action, they noted a desire to clarify expectations.
"We want to be flexible, but we are not going to abdicate the responsibility we have to taxpayers," DMCC board member R.T. Rybak said, noting the resolution should communicate a desire to partner with developers, as well as an understanding the details of plans can change.
Under the policy, several specific changes can spur a followup review by the board. They include:
• More than a 10 percent increase or decrease in the number of approved residential units.
• More than a 10 percent increase or decrease in floor area.
• A significant change in the character of the project, such as the elimination of a use in a mixed-use building.
• A significant change in building materials or overall project cost.
A question raised by Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede prompted the board to add a 10 percent reduction or addition of proposed hotel rooms.
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In other DMC business, the board:
• Approved a resolution commending Rochester City Administrator Stevan Kvenvold, who is retiring May 31.
• Heard updates regarding five plans for the DMC public realm. They were the overall DMC Design Guidelines and the Chateau Theatre reuse effort and three subdistrict plans — the Heart of the City, St. Marys Place and Discovery Square.
