HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-27-09 Community and Economic Development Committeer' ~~
~C ~. ~~~~
~~E~ t-,~
~i111 r'~i
~~~~, COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
APRIL 27, 2009
Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Vice-Chairperson; Ann Puzzello;
Karen White; Catherine Andres, Citizen Member
Other Council Members Present: Derek Dieter; David Varner; Tom LaFountain; Oliver
Davis; AI "Buddy" Kirsits
Others Present: Pam Meyer; Larry Magliozzi; Martha Lewis;
Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand; Jamie Loo; Mayor Luecke;
Catherine Fanello; Carol Davis; Kamesha Williams
Agenda: Bill No. 26-09 Appropriation -Neighborhood Stabilization Program
Vice-Chairperson, Henry Davis, filling in for Chairperson Tim Rouse called upon Pam Meyer the
Director of Community Development to explain Bill No. 26-09. Pam allowed that these were the
first dollars available to the City through the federal government's stimulus fund. The purposes of
the dollars are to augment the City's efforts to revitalize failing neighborhoods. Federal guidelines
dictated the dollars be used in "blighted" neighborhoods. These classified by census tracks 6, 19,
and 21 located in the northwest and near west side neighborhoods were to be the focus of the
City's efforts. In particular they were chosen because they had the highest incidence of
abandoned, foreclosed, or about to be foreclosed properties. The Community Development
Department's strategy was to contract with local non-profits to either build new homes where
demo'd houses once stood or rehab houses still having good bones. Habitat for Humanity and
South Bend Heritage would do the bulk of the work. All contracts for the use of funds need to be
signed within 18 months of March 1, 2009. Work was to be completed over a period of three
years.
The contracting agencies would be allowed 10% - 12% of the contract to administer the work.
Community Development would use up to 25% of the money to defray administrative costs
spread over the three year program. Pending Council approval the program involving demolition,
acquisition, and rehab could begin promptly. Following Pam Meyers presentation numerous
questions about the mechanics of the program, the estimated impact of the program, and basic
neighborhood recovery strategies for recovery and investment were asked. David Varner
focused on best uses of the money. Oliver Davis focused on expected results as well as timing.
Henry Davis questioned overall strategy, suggesting a greater impact would be gained by
focusing efforts in one neighborhood rather than spreading efforts.
Nonetheless, on a motion for favorable recommendation by Ann Puzzello, seconded by Karen
White and unanimous support (with reservation) the bill was sent favorably.
There being no further business to come before the committee at this time, Vice-Chairperson
Henry Davis adjourned the meeting at 4:21 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
`~~t~~~_
Henry Davis, Jr., Vice-Chairperson
Community and Economic Development Committee