12-22-97 Zoning & Annexation and Community & Economic Development

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December 22, 1997 Page 2 Council Member Coleman asked a question about access and was advised by Mr. Gorney, the owner of the liquor store, that he has always had access on Michigan Street. Mr. Gorney further added that he was never contacted by anyone in Redevelopment prior to the letters being sent. Council Member Coleman noted that assessments are done by the Township assessors and no de-valuations should have taken place. He also noted that any denial of a building permit would have been because of a Code violation. Mr. Fozo confirmed that a release from Code Enforcement would be necessary in light of the"vacate and seal order." Mr. Jon Hunt noted that there is a need to increase the tax base and to create jobs. He further noted that four small parcels individually could not be marketed unless all properties were acquired. Once there is a plan for South Michigan and it is complete, a consulation would then be utilized on how the tax base could be increased. Council Member Aranowski noted that there must be a better job done with regard to communications before owners receive the appraisal letter. Council Member Hosinski stressed that the problem appears to be that there is no prior contact which could be done legally before the appraisal letter is sent. Council Member Hosinski also voiced concern about the effect on ongoing businesses. Council Member Varner questioned the appraisal contract. It was noted that the contract is between the Commission and the individual appraiser. Ann Kolata noted that her appraisals would be done on each property and if the property would be taken on eminent domain,that the Court would appoint an additional appraiser. Council Member Hosinski noted that the acquisition of the five(5) properties in question is currently tabled by the Redevelopment Commission. Mr. Robert Hunt of the Redevelopment Commission confirmed that it is tabled and that there is no further action scheduled on these properties at the present time. Council Member Hosinski stressed the need for continued informal discussions between the Common Council and the Redevelopment Commission. There being no further business to come before the committee,the meeting was adjourned at 4:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Council Member John Hosinski Chairperson,Zoning and Annexation Committee Council Member John Broden Chairperson, Community and Economic Development Committee attachment