11-05-84 Human Resources & Economic Development

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Page 2. Ralph ttuszinski of the task force outlined the parking restrictions. It was noted that the State is operating on requests from several years ago with regard to restricted parking. Jon Hunt noted that there are two separate organizations working together: the private not-for-business group of the Western Avenue Business Council in the Mayor' s Committee called the Western Avenue Task Force. The project has been in the works for over a year with the assistance revenue sharing money. Four goals have been high- lighted: (1) the Walnut-Western viaduct---improved lighting and cleaning for safety reasons. (2) off-street parking---renting vacant lots for $1.00 a year. (3) curb and sidewalk improvements. (4) landscaping near the viaduct. $110,000 was budgeted for_ nublic improvements. $150,000 is ear-marked for guaranteed loan funds which would enable $350, 000 to be available for rehabilation and renovation loans through four local banks . Mr. Hunt noted that in order to use CD money the eligible activity must meet the benefit tests of preventing or eliminating slum or deteriorating conditions or benfitting lower income individuals. There are several problems for a single building outside of the enterprize zone. The benefit test must be met. There would be a pre-application phase directed to the City for a review of the benefit tests and then to the bank. In a response to questions from Councilman Beck, it was noted that individuals outside of the enterprize zone could qualify for investment tax credits of 25% on the rehabilitation work if the building is 40 years old or older, or is historic. In response to her questions on no-parking restrictions, Mr. Leszczynski noted that the State is upgrading the area due to congestion and complaints. He noted that the City is working with. the State so that the business interests would be taken into consideration. Mr. Leszczynski stated that he would keep the Council up to date on this topic. Mr Veldman noted that the fifth lane on Western has inproved the area. He also noted that the top priority was to get more parking off of Western. Several individuals questioned the impact of the Olice-Sample overpass. In response to Councilman Voorde' s question, Mr. Leszczynski stated that the State highway has exclusive control over parking, however the. State is cooperating with the City. Mr. Hunt noted that there is a one year agreement with the Banks and that the money would be drawn down in a lump sum and divided between the four banks. Everyone agreed that better communication would solve many of the problems . Councilman Braboy requested notice of all meetings by both committees . There being no further business the meeting