The developer who wants to modernize and expand Madison's landmark Edgewater Hotel and its environs has recognized reality.

There were a lot of objections to the initial design, and to the developer's daunting request for $16 million in tax incremental financing support.

So the proposal has been scaled back. That's a good move.

But it is not just the size of the project that should concern the Madison City Council.

The Edgewater redevelopment plan, if it is to receive public support and encouragement, must include ironclad commitments to provide broad public access to the Lake Mendota waterfront, job creation guarantees, and agreements to provide the people who hold those jobs with sound wages and benefits.

We know the mayor is enthusiastic about this project, and we respect that enthusiasm. But council members and citizens should remind him that only after all the economic I's are dotted and the environmental T's are crossed will it be appropriate to talk about TIF money and project approvals.

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