September 7, 2022
I am writing in response to the letter to the editor published on Aug.31 and
headlined 'Historic District needs new champions.' In answer to the writer’s
question, the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) is one voice that
speaks for the residents of the Historic District.
As examples of that voice working, the DNA pushed the city to enact the
following ordinances: establishment of caps on the number of short-term
vacation rentals (STVR) in each ward; creation of the hotel overlay limiting the
building of large hotels in the downtown and residential area; stopping the
establishment of unmanaged Inns to circumvent STVR caps; and placement
of limits on where and when tour groups and quadricycles can operate.
Each of these ordinances were initiated by the DNA. Additionally, the DNA
fought against the establishment of double-decker tour buses and the
building of a cruise ship terminal.
Currently, the DNA is advocating for the establishment of an ordinance
limiting the building of large accessory dwelling units in lanes. Our members,
who are residents of the Historic District, do not want large buildings or
additional STVRs in the lanes. The DNA consistently advocates for the
adherence to the Oglethorpe Plan. We have board members dedicated to
zoning issues as well as quality of life issues that affect the Historic District.
We agree that the strength of Savannah is its homeowners. Our homes are
what bring the tourists and film industry to Savannah.
The DNA fights to protect our quality of life using the force of our members
to ensure our voice is heard.
David B. McDonald, president
Savannah Downtown Neighborhood Association