01-26-98 Community & Ecocomic Development

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Community and Economic Development Committee January 26, 1998 Page 5 abatement. Mr. Luann added that he has provided approximately 25% of the cost of expenses for the clubhouse itself. Council Member Broden noted that he shares the concerns over the Emerson Forest subdivision,but would be supporting the Sandpiper Cove development this evening. Following further discussion, Council Member Broden made a motion, seconded by Council Member Pfeifer that Bill No. 98-11 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed. Council Member Kelly noted that further information on the Emerson Forest subdivision is forthcoming from BL builders Inc. Council Member Kelly then invited Mr. Mike Dobson and Mr. Dick Best to provide information on their proposal for the Studebaker Corridor. The Committee was informed that these individuals are interested in developing the Northwest corner of South Main and Sample. Pictures of the proposed development then were circulated among the Committee members. The development would include a restaurant of possibly Arby's or Lee's Famous Chicken with a 100 seating capacity, a convenience store, and a gasoline operation. It would be similar to the one located at Cleveland and Brick which they believe is compatible with commercial and industrial uses. The gentleman further noted that 50 employees would be involved with an annual payroll of between $300,000 and $350,000. Mr. Dobson noted that he operates 65 facilities and that his company has been in business for over 20 years. Mr. Best noted that he operates 15 facilities and also has been in business as a locally owned company for the past several years. In response to a question raised by Council Member Ujdak, it was noted that Mr. Dobson and Mr. Best have attempted for the past year and a half to work with various city officials, beginning with Mr. Tom Eddington and Ann Kolata. They also indicated that they had contact Jim Coldwell as well as Council Member Coleman. In December of 1997, they went before the redevelopment Commission and again stressed the need that they are local businessmen interested in private development for that area. In response to a question raised by Council Member Varner,it was noted that the proposed development would be approximately$1.25 million dollars with real estate taxes projected between$12,000 to$18,000 each year. Council Member Hosinski noted that he was at the December Redevelopment Commission meeting and believes that the proposed development would be a good one. Mr.Hunt stated that both gentleman are good businessmen,however the site is believed to have industrial/manufacturing as its highest and best use. He also noted that a potential development of 40,000 square feet may be forthcoming with an offer in the next three to four months. Mr. Hunt further noted that one of the goals for the Studebaker quarter was to help small businesses who are already located in that area.