2000-64 DESIGNATING CONSERVATION AREA - NEAR NORTH AREA

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� � �� ' " ' M ,� � , , � Decatur City Plan Commission June 1, 2000 Page Six Mr. Shampine asked if any other areas have been declared as conservation areas. Mr. Krieger stated that the TIF area also meets the conservation area designation criteria,but the TIF is a taxing district. He stated there are no plans to propose the Near North as a taxing district at this time and although it could qualify as such that is not the purpose of this designation. Mr. Schiller asked what the designation would allow the City to be able to do that it can't do now. Mr. Krieger read from the petition stating that the advancement of the redevelopment area is in the public's benefit and that acquisition should be pursued in a timely manner so that the area can be prepared for massive redevelopment. Mr. Schiller asked how much property there was left to acquire. Mr. Krieger stated that there is still one third of the area to be acquired in the Near North and very little property has been acquired in the sandwich area. Ms. Rachael Jones, 345 Central Avenue, was present and stated that she has lived there for 54 years and kept up her property. She stated that when the acquisitions began in the Near North two years ago she stopped putting money into her property. Ms. Jones stated that she is not necessarily interested in relocating and couldn't afford another house. She stated that a deal would have to be made to her benefit. Mr. John Funk, President of the Near Northside Merchants neighborhood orgariization,was present and stated that all the members of the organization own property in the strip between Water and Main. Mr. Funk asked if the designation occurs will it give the City the power of eminent domain. Mr. Krieger answered yes. Mr. Funk stated that he hoped the designation takes place and believes it would be very positive. Mrs. Morthland stated that eminent domain is the power for a governmental unity to acquire property through the process of paying fair market value, either to a willing or unwilling property owner. Mr. Krieger stated that the property in the sandwich area will not necessarily be acquired. If it is advantageous or necessary the property will be acquired. The intent is to direct developers to the area. Mr. Krieger stated that property acquisition is governed by HUD as their funding is used. Ms. Thompson stated that the City will approach the remaining homeowners and renters in the area. As well as acquiring the property,relocation must occur as well and everything depends on appraisals, inspections, adequate housing and availability, etc. Ms. Thompson was hopeful that the remaining 70 properties would be acquired by spring and certified letters will be sent to property owners.