I think the author is correct in thinking that Google will cause him discomfort by creating this campus. Everyone in this area not employed by Google will have to move because Google is basically buying the land, directly or through its employees.
Some of Google's money will flow to locals not directly employed by Google, but will this offset the increased cost of their living expenses?
Well, I think I can make a simpler argument. Google will change this neighbourhood. The culture will change, the cost of things, not just rent, will increase. Assuming that the author is very happy with how his neighbourhood currently is, I can see how he doesn't want Google's change.
I think that, if the majority of the people in the area side with the author, there is an argument to be made to, through political means, block bringers of gentrifications such as Google from entering this area.
I'm all for self-determination of individuals and groups. And the delicate quest for the balance between those.
If the majority wants Google out, I want them to be able to do that. Currently, that decision is very likely not up to them.
> The boroughs of Berlin are not independent municipalities; the borough governments' power is limited, and subordinate to the Berlin Senate.
And even if it were up to the district/borough, there are 270+ thousand people there. They should hold a referendum, and let's hope for a high brow campaign.
Also, singling out Google is easy, and important. It's a milestone. It means that gentrification is already - very likely - going to continue to happen with full force there. Google picked the place because it's full of "talent", small startups, "cool places/parties", etc.
I'm aware, that they are at the mercy of the owners.
But that's a general problem, completely orthogonal to Google.
Gentrification is just a big sign, that renting as a means for providing shelter is a very fragile system without proper market controls.
Of course, in general the inequality of the situation leads to exploitation of those who don't have enough money to buy something to hedge against rising rents.
Some of Google's money will flow to locals not directly employed by Google, but will this offset the increased cost of their living expenses?
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