02-11-08 Community and Economic Development

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Community and Economic Development Committee February 11, 2008 Page 4 City Administration's Uadate TIF-LaSalle Square: Council Member Dieter then called upon Jeff Gibney, Interim Director of the Department of Community and Economic Development to provide an update on TIF-LaSalle Square. Jeff Gibney, Interim Director of the Department of Community and Economic Development, noted that no TIF monies have been spent in LaSalle Square, however they have been appropriated. Jeff Vitton of Community and Economic Development provided a handout which was a draft letter requesting proposals from consultants to complete the LaSalle Square Area Redevelopment Plan (copy attached). The reverse side was a listing of twenty-five (25) planning firms. The deadline for a response is March 10, 2008. Mayor Luecke will be appointing a Steering Committee to review and give recommendations. They are working with St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and Memorial Hospital on a possible joint venture fora "Bendix Physicians Group". Joint planning is underway with Honeywell; and market rate housing is being studied. Mr. Vitton noted that they have also posted the request for proposals on Planning.org which is a national website and have received ten (10) responses to date. In response to a question from Council Member Dieter regarding the South Shore, Mr. Vitton stated that the airport would be represented on the Steering Committee. He added that some "retail nibbles" have been received; and that discussions have been ongoing with St. Vincent DePaul who have noted difficulties with the location for retail. Dr. Varner voiced concern whether the round-abouts have had an adverse affect on retail, noting that before it was a straight shot to the bypass. He voiced concern about the possible severe restriction to the flow of traffic. Mr. Gibney stated that their department would provide a map to the Council of the airport economic development area through Jeff Vitton, noting that the area is much more attractive today. Council Member Kirsits noted that he travels in this area a lot, and that persons are starting to get offers. Council President Rouse noted that there is a meeting tomorrow at LaSalle Square. The Community and Economic Development Department will have representatives in attendance and will show maps of the expanded areas. Council Member Dieter thanked everyone for the update.