Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Neighborhood Revitalization topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
City unveils 2026–2029 revitalization framework; staff says plan coordinates existing programs
Summary
City staff presented a 2026–2029 revitalization framework focused on five core priorities — economic development, service modernization, neighborhood stabilization, TIF oversight and long‑range planning — and said it is a staff framework to guide efforts while a full comprehensive plan is developed.
City staff presented a short‑term 2026–2029 Economic and Community Development Revitalization Plan that organizes existing, council‑approved initiatives into an action framework staff said is intended to run alongside and inform a later comprehensive plan. Lacey Elze, Economic and Community Development Director, framed the document as a transparency and accountability tool rather than a replacement for a full comprehensive plan that staff expect to complete in roughly 18 months.
Elze described five priorities: economic development to retain and attract businesses; modern service delivery through policy reviews and data‑driven operations; stronger neighborhoods through targeted grants and redevelopment; enhanced oversight of six TIF districts; and long‑range planning including zoning code and transportation studies. She said staff estimate the plan could save up to 55 projects from demolition through programs such as roof and porch repairs and that the plan does not create new funding obligations but highlights possible future uses of budgeted and proposed funds.
Council members asked about community engagement and measurable outcomes. Councilwoman Cruz requested quantifiable targets for small‑business growth and unemployment correlation; Elze said business retention work will include baseline counts and stated staff aim to increase competitive grant applications by 30% as a performance target. Councilmembers also discussed potential revenue sources to expand efforts — reduced cash reserve days freeing roughly $4 million, possible hotel‑motel tax adjustments, short‑term rental taxation, and future cannabis dispensary revenue — and emphasized the plan is a living document that can be revised as funding allows.
Developer and neighborhood partner Chad Bolen of Urban Roots Properties LLC read a written proposal asking the city to allow his firm to inspect and negotiate acquisitions of single‑family and multiunit properties slated for demolition so they can be rehabilitated and sold to owner‑occupants. Bolen said his company will not use city funds and will avoid bulk investor sales.
The council did not take a vote on the plan itself; staff said they intend to return for formal adoption at an upcoming meeting (target: second meeting in February or first meeting in March).
