The best way to neuter NIMBYs would be to give them a direct interest in the success of proposed residential developments. Here are two ways that could be done:
- The land use approval process could be changed to guarantee property owners only the minimum use required by the Constitution. Anything in addition to that would be contingent on an agreement with the neighbors. Planning staff would be used to mediate and facilitate the agreements. They could address anything from the appearance of the new development to capital improvements in the surrounding areas.
- Local governments could create tax increment benefit districts around each new development. Increased revenues from the developments could be used for improvements to the surrounding communities.