HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-22-12 Community & Economic Development Community & Economic Development October 22,2012
Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Karen White, Gavin Ferlic,
Dr. Fred Ferlic
Citizen Member: Zachary Raymond
Other Council Members Present: Tim Scott,Val Schey, Dr. David Varner,
Oliver Davis, Derek Dieter
Others Present: Pam Meyer, Don Inks, Marti Wolfson, Kathleen Cekanski-
Farrand, David Relos, Mayor Pete Buttigieg, Mike Schmuhl,
Mary Murphy, Chris Dressel, Jitin Cain, Kevin White,
Murray Miller, Vera Peale, Linda Wolfson, Mrs. Jackson
Agenda: Bill No. 12-76—Tax Abatement 1038 Norte Dame Av.
Bill No. 12-80—Approve Lincoln Park Neighborhood Plan
Chairperson Henry Davis called the Community and Economic Development Hearing to
order with two items up for consideration.
The first was Bill No. 12-76, a petition for residential abatement for a house located at
1038 Notre Dame Avenue. Mr. Davis called upon David Relos from the Community
Investment Department to detail the petition. He stated the owners had met all criteria to
qualify for the abatement. During the committee question period Dr. Fred Ferlic said
while he supports this request, the Council should rethink the criteria so it would be used
only when necessary or in other words, in a"but for" situation. Gavin Ferlic said
residential tax abatement should be used in incent wise construction in distressed areas.
Oliver Davis expressed support for abatements. Finally Karen White moved the bill be
sent to Council favorably. Dr. Fred Ferlic seconded and all save Gavin Ferlic affirmed.
The second item,bill No. 12-80 asks for the Council to approve the Lincoln Park
Development Plan. Chris Dressel from Economic Development walked the Council
through the plan attached noting the many meetings held in the neighborhood to
collaborate with the residents soliciting and incorporating their input. Ann Mannix
expanded on the nature and implementation of the plan.
During Council questioning both Valerie Schey and Tim Scott asked the extent, if any, of
the City's financial commitment to the plan. Dressel responded the only city dollars
pledged were $150,000 for demolition of the worst homes. Karen White felt more
explanation of the future City commitment to the plan was needed. Derek Dieter asked if
data from the police patrols in this troubled areas was taken into consideration in
formulating the plan. Mr. Dressel said PD data was incorporated in the planning process.
Oliver Davis and Gavin Ferlic voiced support for the planning efforts.
Henry Davis opened the hearing to comment from the public. Vera Peale, a
neighborhood resident along with Mr. Jackson and Linda Wolfson all extolled the
participative nature of the plan process.
At this point Gavin Ferlic motioned to support. Karen White added a second and all
supported the favorable recommendation.
Under miscellaneous Henry Davis raised the question of the length, the dollar amount,
and the performance measures of MBE/WBE's contract with Trinal. Oliver Davis
echoed similar views. In response to Murray Miller's request for a report on MBE/WBE
activities, Henry said he would ask for a report from their Board.
There being no further business to come before the Community& Economic Committee
at this time, Chairperson Henry Davis, Jr., adjourned the meeting at 4:35 p.m.
Res s ectfull itted,
7' , .
Henry Davis, Jr., Chairperson
Community& Economic Development Committee