This bill develops the structure for enabling 'in-theme' expansion proposed here. It has altered a little from that original post and addresses some issues that weren't considered in the original post. Please feel free to comment in this thread so we can continue the discussion about how best to do this.
Pat
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"In-theme" Expansion Enablement Bill
Rationale: This bill sets out a method for "in-theme" expansion where sims are added according to a masterplan that defines the theme in advance so that a public contest for a new theme is not required. Each new sim added this way will meet specific needs decided by the RA (examples are the need for: more citizens; more income; larger plots; larger public areas with specific builds).
This is in addition to, not instead of, the way we have expanded up until now. There will still be new themes added to the CDS, full public involvement and the excitement of developing proposals for the public vote. This method is being proposed as supplementary method which streamlines the process of adding new sims so we can expand more quickly without compromising our reputation for quality.
1. In order to expand the territory of the CDS and enable new citizens to join us, this bill sets out a framework procedure for the development, purchase and building of new sims which expand existing themes.
2. The process of "in-theme" expansion involves four phases:
Phase I: PREPARATION
In this phase the RA would decide where the new sim(s) would be built in the overall regional masterplan. The RA would commission the New Guild to produce a rough plan for the new sim(s) following broad guidelines laid down by the RA for (i) the rough number of plots (ii) the range of sizes of plots (iii) price and affordability (iv) single/double prim (v) rough balance between public, private and commercial land (vi) any specific public builds e.g. the ampitheatre (vii) any other infrastructure that can serve the interest of the community and territory.
The New Guild would produce a draft plan, model, budget for construction and guide prices for plot purchase and monthly tier.
These materials would then be used for market research. The Executive Branch would use the materials to gauge whether there was enough interest in the new sim in the CDS and the rest of Second Life to warrant proceeding to the next phase and submit its report to the RA.
Phase II: PURCHASE
On the basis of the report from the Executive, the RA would decide whether to continue with the project or not. Assuming that the RA decides there is sufficient interest to build the new sim(s), the RA would agree any final adjustments to the plan, authorise the Estate Owner to purchase the new sim(s) and commission the New Guild to carry out the work. It is at this point that any questions about payment for services rendered, intellectual property rights to work carried out for the CDS etc would be resolved i.e. before work begins. Advance orders for plots would be made available to CDS citizens.
Phase III: BUILDING & PROMOTION
During this phase the sim would be terraformed, roads laid out and any public or private buildings built. Alongside the building work, the new sim would be promoted by the Public Information Officer (or Chancellor if no PIO has been appointed) within the CDS and without with lots being made available for reservation by advance purchase.
Phase IV: ESTABLISHMENT
The new sim(s) will be formally opened by the Chancellor once building work has been completed, allowing new residents to move in and establish their homes.
3. The RA is responsible for setting the budget, timescale and milestones in the process. Where necessary this will involve discussion with the New Guild and the Executive Branch. Project management will take place within the New Guild. The New Guild may invite the Chancellor to resolve any issues that it is unable to in order to maintain progress provided these decisions do not conflict with the guidelines laid down by the RA.
