ok maybe "put in check" was a bit strong, my point is that KCFD's life would have been a lot easier if he could operate w/o a liquor license, or HDA compliance, etc. good thing for the hyatt investment group that the rules don't apply to them.
I guess I understand what you're trying to say. But a few things you're missing:
1. The City was fairly easy to work with (easiest of the three levels of gov I dealt with)
2. The biggest PITA was dealing with the crossroads assoc. the only reason I got past that was with help from the City
3. KCMO is not giving Hyatt a blank check and saying build whatever you want...they still have to follow the laws
4. Typically, a TIF of this size would not go to vote anyways, so why bitch about it?
My biggest beef with KCMO in my whole process was that their laws for liquor licensing are insane. Which is not Sly's fault, these have been in place since prohibition. literally unchanged. Essentially how it works, if you want to open a bar/restaurant/liquor store/anything the sells tobacco etc etc you have to get a neighborhood license. at least 51% of the building owners around you have to OK your plans with a signature. This is very detailed, want to put in a dart board? Signature. Have a dance floor? Signature. Outdoor Patio? Signature. It's a totally crazy process.
Now, In my case ONE person owns over 60% of the buildings around me. I had to convince this one guy (who doesn't drink, and hates any sort of night life) that my business is good for the area. He got to dictate what beer we can serve (only what we make), What hours we're open, what days we're open, if we can have a patio (we can't), how late our large roll-up doors can stay open, plus about 5 or 6 other things. Essentially he has more sway on my business than I do.
I don't mind the stipulation of having to get neighborhood approval. But, if you own more than one piece of property you should only be allowed one vote. The law makes it so larger land owners have more power.
TL;DR the KC liquor laws are weird AF.
