09-09-97 Personnel & Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Personnel and Finance Committee September 9, 1997 Page 2 Council Member Pfeifer thanked Kathy Baumgartner for the classes sponsored through the Bureau of Housing. Ms.Baumgartner noted that as the program changes from federal to private sponsorship that she is emphasizing more involvement of people into the programs;better marketing; and better processing times. Mr.Hunt highlighted attempting to focus on non-traditional neighborhoods such as the vicinity of the Riley High School area and not to be tied to federal requirements which oftentimes become cumbersome. President Kelly noted that the Christmas in April Program has been in effect for ten (10) years. He appreciated the new emphasis on quality instead of numbers and recommended an evaluation of properties assisted and their current status. Council Member Pfeifer also appreciated the two-year emphasis in an area. Discussion took place on the "Citywide Development Asst"proposed at $ 14,649. Ann Kolata noted that this person would assist in providing information to individuals that is not being provided by the Realtors or by Project Future. Council Member Pfeifer suggested a better emphasis on diversity in all aspects of planning and development. She noted the increasing need for a special emphasis on access to governmental services. Such diversity would include but not be limited to making services more user friendly for individuals with disabilities (physical and otherwise), to those where English is not their primary language, as well as a better awareness of needs due to age,health conditions,race, etc. In response to a question raised by Council Member Broden it was noted that there will be 8,000 square feet of store front available in the Robertson's building. Alot of start up stores are interested, however Jeff Gibney believes that a major retailer may have an announcement in the near future. Dr. Varner suggested looking at the Ironwood/Calvert area as a potential area for a Partnership Center in the 5th District. He suggested that preservation of an area before it becomes a problem should be pursued by the department. The Council Attorney raised several questions on behalf of Council Member Udjak who was unable to be present at the Committee meeting. Mr. Hunt noted that the top CED priority projects for 1998 would be: 1. Increased effectiveness of partnership centers 2. More emphasis on community planning 3. Expansion of the development area near the airport utilizing more state funding 4. Completing all acquisitions in the Sample-Ewing area 5. Prepare for the next round of development and a stronger CCA in the downtown and East Bank area. Mr. Hunt also noted the need for better data collection. With regard to the revitalized Western Business Council, Mr. Hunt noted that John Stark would be providing information which would address commercial strip planning, increased membership, determining who is involved,and diversity.