HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-28-13 Community InvestmentCommunity Investment February 28, 2013
4:30 P.M.
Committee Members Present: Gavin Ferlic, Henry Davis, Valerie Schey, Dr. Fred Ferlic
Other Council Present: Tim Scott, Derek D. Dieter
Other Present: Scott Ford, Don Inks
Agenda: Organizational Meeting
Committee Chair Gavin Ferlic opened the meeting by introducing Scott Ford Director of the
Community Investment Department who was asked to highlight the departments priorities for
the coming year.
Scott said emphasis to revitalize the inner core of the city would continue. Scott said the
continued effort to find an investor willing to commit to a public /private partners up to
revitalize the Chase Tower looked promising. So too was the case for the LaSalle Building. On
the East Bank area new Investment in both residential and commercial projects was rapidly
morphing from dream to reality.
Scott also spoke to a continuing focus on investing in high tech pointing to the Renaissance
Center as well as Innovation and Ignition Park developments.
Gavin then turned to the Council for input. Henry Davis spoke first. His remarks called for an
improved abatement process particularly on compliance follow -up. Henry said a streamlined
process would both improve accountability and prove to be more business friendly. Henry also
questioned the administration's commitment to the LWW and Western Ave corridor
revitalization efforts.
Tim Scott suggested the possibility of a special meeting of both the Residential Neighborhoods
and Community Investment committees to set goals and objectives for the corridor
development.
Valerie Schey said a "big picture" look at economic development was needed. All revenue
sources, currently used along with possible new sources of revenue should be looked at along
with an expenditure survey to determine how economic development resources were spent, to
what end, and by whom.
Derek Dieter picked up on the notion of needing better abatement compliance information
along with a better, cleaner, clearer process. He used this opportunity as a forum to push his
idea of moving City Hall to the closed College Football Hall of Fame. Regarding corridor
development he said the administration needed to develop and commit to a plan.
Dr. Ferlic called for a complete review of the abatement process from basic need for to
application criteria to compliance review. He waged a "best practice" study for a more
effective use of abatement. He called for more progress in dealing with the Chase Tower and
the Hall of Fame buildings.
Tim Scott said any abatement discussion should include the County the Chamber and local
colleges to help assure the formulation of a most fair and effective, responsible approach.
Gavin thanked everyone for their input and adjourned at 4:58 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Gavin Ferlic, Chairperson
Community Investment Committee