Board approval or City Permits First?

My building just re-wrote their alteration agreement. They have been making edits as questions have been asked. According to management, the coop board is requesting city permits with the initial alteration agreement submission.

To me that sounds backwards. Why would anyone go to the city with plans that the building hasn’t approved?

I’m assuming, if the board rejects the plans, and I change them to their approval, I would have to refile with the city. That seems incredibly illogical and a waste of time and money.

I thought it was simple:
Step 1. Get the buildings approval
Step 2. Once approved. File with the city
Step. 3. Provide management, building with said permits and notification to start work.
Step 4. Start work.