10-22-12 Community & Economic Development

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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.