success stories

Originally built in 1942, GAF was a world renowned U.S. military training facility during World War II and beyond. In 1992, the GAF was decommissioned and fell into disarray. After years of increasing crime and blight, the area was identified for a revitalization project. We identified this as an opportunity for VPS. I negotiated and closed a deal to secure this site. Prior to using VPS, the city was spending a lot of money securing the site. We proposed a solution for them that saved them money. With our solution, they “virtually” monitored buildings without needing physical security patrols. In addition, steel replaced plywood, eliminating break-ins. As a result of this success, We were invited to present VPS solutions to the California League of Cities at their annual Conference.

Many cities across the country are considering or adopting Short Term Rental (STR) ordinances that limit or prevent the ability of property owners to rent out properties on a short-term basis. The dynamics of this issue are complex. The infringement upon property rights is a common theme when local governments limit the use of property. Working with staff, we launched a Call for Action (CFA) that included emails, txt messages, and other forms of outreach to inform residents. We then met with staff to discuss concerns. Our efforts led to a much more agreeable form of the ordinance.

The City Council was considering an ordinance amending the Zoning Map to make land use compatible with Naval Air Station - Corpus Christi's military mission. This would have included regulations of land use, density, intensity, noise, light, and vertical obstructions. The city argued that the amendments protected the health, safety, and welfare of civilians and military personnel by encouraging land use that is compatible with aircraft operations. We set up a series of meetings with city staff, organized public hearings, and prepped members of the public to testify. This led to a successful re-writing of the ordinance that was more in line with our client’s needs.

The City Council reviewed their Historic Preservation Plan that, among its many recommendations, calls for an ordinance to require vacant properties be registered with the city. This was an issue that our client fought and won in 2018, however, it returned for consideration under a new Council. We met with City staff and City Council to better understand their motivation and to share concerns. We also presented staff and council with legal arguments, and potential litigation issues if the ordinance was passed. This effort was victorious in that the city tabled the ordinance and it was never bright forward for a vote.

On occasion, we are asked to organize efforts to call legislators to support or oppose proposed statewide bills. These “Red Alerts” and “Calls for Action” are vital in influencing proposed legislation. We have a successful track record on issues including rent control, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), remote on-line notarizations,