They grant far too many variances; they grant six to eight variances on any given project. Variances are to be granted sparingly. They have been way too generous.

From a zoning point of view, it had everything wrong with it. It was extraordinarily high, and [according to the current master plan for zoning] you're only allowed 30 units per acre. This had 366 units per acre, which was 12 times the permitted density.

Part of this was my personal umbrage that the zoning ordinance was being ignored. [Secondly] I think Union City has had the opportunity of a lifetime in the last few years to redevelop in a constructive way, and I think we have squandered that opportunity.

He could start construction, but no one starts under those circumstances. The remedy of the law is you tear down the building if the variances were not granted correctly.

He is a tireless worker and creative genius. I am simply amazed at the number of incredible ideas he has, and I am in awe of the products he develops. In one word, he is incredible.

If the governing body wants to allow high-rise buildings, [then that's what will happen].