02-26-18 Informal - Laserfiche WebLink

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battle for my home and it is still an ongoing process. It is very important to me to make sure we are representing all individuals in the community. Equitable distribution of resources in the community is very, very important. Council President Scott asked, Would you have any problem reporting back to Council? Mr. Smith replied,No, absolutely not. I would provide quarterly updates.This appointment would mean a lot to me and my family as well. I take it with a great amount of pride. I will definitely make sure I meet all requirements for this position. Councilmember Voorde asked, What do you do for a living? Mr. Smith replied, Currently,I am licensed insurance agent. I am transitioning to seek a little more traditional employment now. Council President Scott dismissed Mr. Smith from the interview. Thomas Villing, 1336 Sunnymede Avenue, was asked by Council President Scott why he would like to serve as one (1) of the Council appointees to the Redevelopment Commission. Mr. Villing stated, I think it really comes down to community service. It has always been an orientation of mine. Earlier in my career I did a lot of work with the Chamber and what have you. When I came aware of this opportunity I thought this would be a nice way to give back as well. No agenda beyond that. Council President Scott then opened the floor to questions from Councilmembers. Councilmember White asked, What is your philosophy on how and on what TIF Funds should be spent? Mr. Villing replied, That is a really good question and I wish I could say that I had a philosophy. I would say it really comes down to a good use of the tax-payers money. I am obviously very oriented to promoting progress in this community. If that will serve a purpose and make sense from an economic standpoint, great. But, I don't have a strong opinion one (1)way or another. Councilmember Williams-Preston stated, There has been a lot of conversation around equity and equitable development. The Council has a focus on neighborhoods and stuff going on in the main corridors. How can we be more equitable in the distribution of redevelopment? Mr. Villing replied, I really think it comes down to fairness and being smart with mapping out a strategy for the development of the community. Some of you know me and some of you don't,I'm sure. I've been in business in town for forty-five (45)years and have owned our own business for thirty-six (36)'years. I always come at specific problems or opportunities with a sound strategy in mind and stay true to that. Council President Scott dismissed Mr. Villing from the interview. 5