Vienna's Historic District is a Metaphor for Corruption

People ask, "What is the problem with the historic district, there must be rules?" There are none. Here is the Town Code:

In its review of any application for a Certificate of Appropriateness, the Windover Heights Board of Review, or the Council, on appeal, shall consider the following aspects of a building, accessory building, structure, fence or sign.

1. Exterior architectural features, including all signs, which are subject to public view at any time of the year from a public street, way or place.
2. General design and arrangement.
3. Texture and material.
4. The relation to similar features of buildings, accessory buildings, structures, fences or signs in the immediate surroundings.
5. Harmony or incongruity with the old and historic aspect of the surroundings.
6. The extent to which historic places and areas of historic interest in the District will be preserved or protected.
7. Special public value because of architectural and other features which relate to the cultural and artistic heritage of the Town of Vienna.

That's it. No rules on what the materials should be. Nothing on what constitutes style. Nothing on color. No details as to what the historic places are. What are the 'areas of historic interest'? Unknown. The Town refuses to define the law. What are the architectural features that hold public value? What is the artistic heritage? Texture and material means what? All of this ambiguity allows Board members to make up the rules on the fly to reward buddies and punish enemies. On top of that, imagine trying to clarify these questions with the Chairman of the Review Board Steve Bukont only to be met with a four letter Freddy.

Perhaps you find this all cute and inconsequential? Well, if that is your view, be ready for this web site to skewer corrupt politicians like Laurie Cole every step of the way - until they change their ways.