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Councilmember Karen White asked, What is your philosophy on how and on what TIF Funds <br /> should be spent? <br /> Mr. Ferlic replied, I think the more creative we can get regarding TIF, the better. Lead by myself, <br /> Dr. Varner as well as members of the Council expressing interest, we have seen a shift in the use <br /> of TIF from pure infrastructure to a little more creative use. It has been used for personnel being <br /> affected by TIF as well as parks within a TIF District. There have been great uses of the funds and <br /> as our General Fund is limited and has constraints, I think TIF use has been a great supplement <br /> that has enabled us to provide the type of services we do to all our City and in all our <br /> neighborhoods. That has been a large collaboration with the Council and Community Investment. <br /> Councilmember Oliver Davis asked, What is the best way to inform the Council on these issues? <br /> Mr.Ferlic replied, I am always more than happy to talk or speak on the phone if any specific issues <br /> arise that are of concern. If you want anything else from me as a representative moving forward, I <br /> would be happy to do that. But certainly,as the agendas are published and if any concerns or issues <br /> come up, you can call my cell phone and I would be more than happy to talk with you to work <br /> through whatever issues there may be. A lot of times prior to meetings, we can meet and hash out <br /> any issues beforehand to ensure good results. <br /> Councilmember Regina Williams-Preston stated, There has been a lot of conversation around <br /> equity and equitable development. The Council has a focus on neighborhoods and stuff going on <br /> in the main corridors. How can we be more equitable in the distribution of redevelopment? <br /> Mr. Ferlic replied, Any opportunity we have to make sure we cover all six (6) districts equitably, <br /> from a TIF perspective, is certainly welcomed. I want to work with Councilmembers if they ever <br /> see an opportunity. I really see economic development as a tool to help all of the citizens in the <br /> City. When we take a look at helping a business expand,it's not just about that business. It is about <br /> the employment opportunities it creates as well as the services they provide for all of our citizens. <br /> That is where I see the greatest opportunity. If we can help facilitate the expansion, growth and <br /> relocation of businesses, all the citizens in the City of South Bend can thrive. Certainly, if there <br /> are ever any ideas, please reach out and I will always be more than willing to work with you on <br /> that. <br /> Councilmember Jo M.Broden stated,With regard to public input and education,I think there could <br /> be a greater amount of activity by the Commission and the Redevelopment staff. I think there is a <br /> real disconnect with the general public. I am wondering if you share that same opinion and am <br /> also wondering if you have any specific goals or objectives to chip away at. <br /> Mr. Ferlic replied, As a Commissioner, I receive public feedback quite often. I will certainly <br /> introduce to our Commission President the possibility of different meeting times and the possibility <br /> of more public input. I think it is a slow process but at the same time I will continue to advocate <br /> for the best type of meetings possible and the most public input possible. <br /> Councilmember Broden followed up, You haven't changed your employment recently and <br /> obviously you're doing terrific work. But with regards to that, I think that might pose some <br /> 2 <br />