I'm also hopeful to get some local cooperation now that he's claiming partnerships with local government. 

Your GC will know how to apply for the correct permits.Avoiding the issues in the future is a function of respecting the permitting process in the first place.  

The fact of the matter is, when you sell or buy a business, you are entering into a business partnership with the person on the other end of the transaction.Yes, the partnership is limited (partial buyouts aside), but what you will be accomplishing during your time together is significant.Due diligence can take months.

We are a small partnership with 4-5 properties currently, but we are growing and hoping to find a reliable lending partner that we can do repeat business with.About 3 months ago, we successfully completed a BRRRR deal where we had excellent numbers, over a 1.25 ratio at 75% LTV, our guarantor partner has an 800+ credit score, and we had no issues qualifying for the loan.

although Dutch is CEO, it is frequently mentioned by him and Amy Vaughn about co-owners and business partnership. 

I’m reaching out with an investment opportunity in a real estate flip project, and I’m currently seeking a limited partner to join me.
With a strong track record of successful real estate investments, I am looking to...

They are functional while frustrating. 

I have done a lot of these for my own portfolio, but am wondering if the tax implications are different if we do a cash out refinance for this partnership LLC and then have to "distribute" the funds to the members. 

Land Use Codes and Building FeasibilityExample 1: Property Land Use CodesActivity Code: 4000 (Social, institutional, or infrastructure-related)Function Code: 1000 (Residence or accommodation)Ownership Code: 4200 (State government)Example: Regrid Property Example 1Example 2: Zoning DetailsZoning Code: T3Zoning Description: Sub Urban ZoneZoning Type: ResidentialZoning Subtype: Single FamilyOwnership Code: 1500 (Businesses and commercial entities)Example: Regrid Property Example 2Based on these land use and zoning codes, can I build a house on either of these parcels?

While you work on that, you could also explore creative financing options like DSCR loans or partnerships to fast-track your first STR.