03-28-11 Public Works & Property Vacation Committee

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�� w `� ��, � ,� � PUBLIC WORKS AND PROPERTY VACATION 3-28-11 Committee Members Present: David Varner; Tim Rouse; Tom LaFountain; Henry Davis Other Council Members Present: Derek Dieter; Karen L. White;Ann Puzzello; Oliver Davis AI Kirsits Others Present: Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand; Rita Kopala;Jeff Gibney; Gary Gilot; Gary King; Gregg Zientara; James Harris; Murray Miller, Phil Byrd Agenda: Bill No. 07-11 —Appropriation Major Moves Infrastructure Triangle Property Committee Chair David Varner called upon City Controller Gregg Zientara to make a presentation of substitute Bill No. 07-11. This bill requests the approval of the Council for the use of"major moves" dollars to pay for infrastructure improvements in what is known as the Eddy Knolls P.U.D. The city would provide streets, sidewalks, curbs, sewers, lighting, and the like for the proposed residential component of the Eddy Street Commons Area. The"major moves"fund would be repaid over time with TIF funds. At this point Gary Gilot distributed a sketch of the proposed Eddy Knolls area along with a one page brief breakdown of the residential component noting 65 families have expressed an interest in the area. (See attachment) Councilmember White asked Gary to explain the access to the Harris Liquor Store. Councilmember Henry Davis asked if Mr. Harris had been dealt with fairly. Gary Gilot described the access. Phil Byrd and Jeff Gibney said Mr. Harris had been approached about selling his property; but Mr. Harris did not want to accept a deal. Councilmember Rouse and Councilmember Henry Davis said Mr. Harris was not happy and was concerned about losing business with the new configuration. Murray Miller asked if the local work force would be utilized to construct the infrastructure and homes. Phil Byrd said 6-10 local builders were expected to participate. Councilmember Henry Davis suggested a local project agreement specifying 20%of the work be minorities. Councilmember Henry Davis and Councilmember Varner asked for a list of the parties interested in building homes on the site. Phil Byrd and Gary Gilot said names could not be released. Councilmember Varner said he needed to see deposits or earnest money from at least 25% of those interested before voting for the bill. Gary King asked if the"holdout house" could be saved. Phil said all offers to the owner were rejected and the city was now using eminent domain to acquire the parcel. Given Councilmember Varner's requirement and other unresolved issues Councilmember Rouse moved the bill be sent to Council without recommendation. Councilmember LaFountain seconded the motion and all affirmed.