R2015-58 APPROVING APPOINTMENTS DCDF

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DCDF minutes September 9, 2014 Directors Present: Bishop G.E. Livingston,Tony Wilkins, Bill Francisco, Ryan McCrady, Billy Tyus, Greg Zientara Staff: Richelle Irons The meeting was called to order by Bishop Livingston at 1:35 pm. Mr.Tyus informed the directors that the City Council is focusing on neighborhood improvement. There are numerous properties in disrepair and they are in various stages of deterioration. Currently CDBG funds are being used to demolish the properties. But there are still houses that need to be torn down. The function of DCDF is to address homeownership, rehabilitation and demolition, according to the bylaws. There is a cash balance of approximately$130,000 as of the end of August. Mr. McCrady added that the federal funds being used have numerous restrictions (i.e. 2000 feet in groupings, IHPA concerns) and it just takes longer because of the Environmental Review process. If we could use funds that are not federal, we could get more done. Bishop Livingston asked how much money is needed. Mr. McCrady said he wasn't sure, but our legal department is thinking that 50-75 will remain at the end of our fiscal year. By not reducing the number of houses that need demolished we are actually aiding in the overall decrease of property values. Mr. Zientara thought the number hovered around $2.5 to $3 million. Bishop Livingston asked if DCDF could select the houses with less or no asbestos. Mr. McCrady said that while asbestos does drive the overall cost,the money from DCDF would give them the ability to demolish in emergency situations and when IHPA doesn't allow it. Bishop Livingston asked if most of the houses have asbestos and if so, could DCDF loan the money to the City for the emergency need and then focus on demolishing the houses with less or asbestos so that more houses could be taken down with the DCDF money. Motion was made and seconded, by Mr. McCrady and Mr. Zientara,to authorize up to $100,000 to be used toward demolition of unsafe structures with the approval of the President of DCDF. Motion carried unanimously. The hope is that by demolishing some of these properties we could spur development after the demolition. Bishop Livingston asked if there was a plan forthe vacant lots. Mr.Tyus said the City is currently applying for an EPA planning grant to assist with a plan. The City is also considering land banking. Mr. Wilkins asked what happens to the vacant lots and who maintains them. Could someone living next door acquire them? Mr. McCrady said yes. Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. McCrady and seconded by Mr. Wilkins.