PACKED house in here. Mayor is being photographed at this very moment.
Virtually every City Dept is represented.
Fever pitch in the room.
Mayor is up:
"Humbled and honored to be here"
"Some of the smartest, dedicated visionary leaders on this board"
Mentioning IBM Study coming soon to identify low hanging fruits.
He will do everything he can to work together, protect taxpayers dollars, invest in the future... downtown will be thriving very soon
Carla Miller is up and is beginning to speak to incoming board members on ethics. She will be doing a brief ethics training.
Virtually everyone is wearing a suit in the room. Even Chris Flagg. Tony Allegretti is suited up with his traditional non-tie ensemble.
Having been to more ethics training courses than I can even count, I can assure you public sector ethics training is just as riveting as private sector ethics training.
We are in the Don Davis Room in City Hall (btw, this building is turning 100 years old this month). Attendees are literally spilling over into the hallway. Jack Shad and myself went around arbitraging chairs from around the St James Bldg. We stuck as many chairs as could possibly fit in here, and it is still standing room only.
It's so full in here, I thought they must have been offering free draft beers.
I'm looking around intently.... nope, no free beer.
Paul Perez also subscribes to the same fashion magazines as Allegretti... he is also sans tie.
I feel underdressed but I have fieldafm beat. He's wearing jeans. In the crowd, Councilman Love, Councilwoman Boyer, Jack Meeks, Doug Skiles and LaCena's favorite owner is here. Lots of media as well. Max Marbut from the Jax Daily Record, Ron Littlepage and Tim Gibbons from the Times-Union too. Noone just walked into the room as well.
Lots of media presence here. Myself and Ashley Kritzer of the Biz Journal are the only people using Apple products to record notes of the meeting. Ashely and myself are of the same age range incidently.
All of the other media types are still using pen and paper.
Carla Miller mentioned that DIA board members are subject to State financial disclosure laws.
So, in the next two months you'll be finding out the net worth of DIA board members.
I'm betting Rob Clements is going to top that list.
Four board members are wearing eye glasses. Oliver Barakat takes the eyewear fashion award IMO.
This is like the Matrix. The Ethics training program has been installed into the DIA's brain. On to Legal.
We're now going over Sunshine Laws.
These live blogs are becoming insanely popular.
I am spotting about a half dozen people in the room following along.
Lori Boyer has walked out, presumably to throw water in her eyes to keep from falling asleep.
Jim Bailey has mastered the art of sleeping with his eyes open.
'Regardless of physical form, anything that involves public business is public record'
Guess that includes text messaging... much to the City's chagrin.
Lori Boyer is back. An empty can of Red Bull rolled behind her as she re-entered the room.
Don Shea looks as thrilled as a 5 year old in a contest on who can keep quiet the longest.
DIA chairman, Don Harris, has a serious look on his face. Looks like he's really taking this Sunshine Law overview in. Don Shea's facial expression suggests "been there, done that."
that stuff is so boring and such overkill. good for the lawyers though.
Ethics training is definately a growth industry. If you are looking for a career change or are attending college now... you should seriously consider this line of work.
Luckily everyone made it through alive. Wait, Don Harris wants more bylaw training. The crowd is thinning out. Legal training overload.
BTW, if anyone is downtown and hungry right now.. the corn chowder at Chamblins was fantastic.
Doug Skiles demonstrates a lesson on persistence. He waited out the people that left b/c they just couldnt take anymore legal training and has now snagged a seat of his own. Great job Douglas!
Both Jim Bailey and Melody Bishop have temporarily excused theselves. Presumably to raid Boyer's Red Bull stash.
Rob Clements is starting to gain ground on Don Shea in the contest.
This guy talking needs to shift his head 45 degrees. He's blocking my view of Kay Harper.
Just lost Timothy Gibbons.
Gibbons has gained his second wind and returned. Moving to next topic.
Now discussing pinning down the monthly meeting dates. First 90 days, once a month, bi-monthy afterwards. Don Shea believes more meetings are needed.
Kay is by far the most attractive of this group. I'd wager to say she would stand out in most crowds.
First vote of the DIA has commenced.
Chairman Harris declares monthly meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 2pm.
Now on to budget issues...
Paul Crawford (who is the acting leader of both the Office of Economic Development and DIA) mentions that operating capital will come from tax increment financing of the DRA. Some revenue streams could also include things such as the Historic Preservation Trust Fund dollars.
On to CEO talk...
Paul Perez nominates Don Shea as Chair of the CEO search process. Motion carried and has unanimous approval from the Board.
Shea mentions that City Council has already charged him with a similar process a year ago. Melody Bishop wants to ensure that the Board will have input on the search criteria Shea mentions he is still under the obligation of Council to come up with the search criteria so this will be simply a continuation of that process.
Perez: we dont need to waste any time. Wants to name a vice chair. Nominates Oliver Barakat. He has a 'passion for the city). Motion carried and unanimous decision.
Perez: Nominates Jim Bailey as Secretary. Motions carries. Another unanimous decision.
Is proud of these 'two actions accomplished today'
'You can hear the heartbeat in the room b/c they are so passionate'
Public Comments coming up...
Chairman Harris wants to concentrate on structure. Melody wants to discuss this strategy and suggest an additional meeting before Nov. 14th.
Next meeting: 3pm on October 30th.
Bailey wants to have another meeting before Nov 14th to talk about CEO search.
Perez doesn't like it. Bishop agrees with Bailey. Allegretti agrees.
Perez changes tone. Tuesday the 30th will be the next meeting. this accomodates several who will be attending the Chamber's Cincinatti trip. Shea will not have the search criteria ready by then.
Oliver wants staff to inform Board about options to structurally stabilize the Bostwick Building before next meeting. Wants to know what authority DIA has on this issue. Clearly community values this building and wants to know what all DIA can do.
Bishop also wants Staff to inform Board of anything that will go before Council so that DIA can weigh in on the issue if necessary.
Psss... Parador garage, Mrs. Bishop.
John Nooney up first with public comments.
Lists off about two dozen bills that were filed b/w now and what sounded like 2007. Wants the DIA board to consider the Shipyards site and the promised public pier on that site.
Victor Cora up now.
Feels the heartbeat downtown. He wants board to consider a Java Fest 2014, celebrating coffee from around the world.
Jax brings in 75000 tons of coffee. Wants to have an International Coffee Musueam in Jax.
Edy Welch up now.
She lives downtown. Been working with an 11 month problem, SHADCO Zone 1 has high concentration of homeless downtown. "it's a turnoff. Perception is part of problem. Sheriff cannot arrest itself out of the problem. We should redefine Hemming Plaza. We want a core that is ameniable for all persons"
There are 2 CRAs within the DIA boundary. The Southside CRA puts out about $2 million per year. The CRA for the north side of the river is negatively cash flowing. In other words, assessed tax value is lower than what it was when the CRA was established. With potential passage of Amendment 4, it will take even longer for the north side CRA to generate revenue.
A Mr Marvin up now. Former City engineer.
Are you contemplating having a visionary action plan?
How are you going to treat public input?
Downtown transportation is ripe with problems. Jax was center of rail traffic for many years. Need to create viaducts to bring rail downtown. Number one issue in his mind.
Jim Love up now.
Giving encouragement to board. Excited for DIA. He is behind DIA and would be glad to help.
Lori Boyer
Jim stole most of my thunder. Also very thrilled and wants to offer help.
There is a statewide CRA in Daytona next week, encourages board to go.
DIA can appear before Land Use and Zoning Committee regarding Bostwick Bldg. Make your opinions known on the issue!
Please provide email contacts to her so she can distribute info on things like CRA training, etc.
Next LUZ meeting is Nov 7th. Appeal has been filed on Bostwick Bldg just this week, so no sooner than 14th of November is when Bostwick appeal will come up.
Meeting is over.
Just the first meeting, but I like the things that have been brought up. Looking forward to seeing what they can do.
Glad to hear that Bostwick was mentioned.
The board members are sincerely interested in this being a very open and public process. I spoke to several after the meeting and they are genuinely looking for public input. I encourage people to attend the meetings whenever possible.
These live blogs are very important. Keep up the good mike/metrojacksonville!
I sat through the entire meeting and left with mixed feelings.
Most of the board have appropriate experience and a genuine interest in downtown.
Field referred to Mr. Perez several times in the live blog when it was actually the Chairman, Don Harris, who was proposing various members for positions and scheduling meetings. I was disappointed that Mr. Harris suggested meetings should occur only every other month, and he initially pushed back when other members suggested that the board should, in fact, meet more often than monthly. Fortunately good sense prevailed and the other members convinced Harris that having a meeting sooner rather than later was important.
It was obvious that several board members felt strongly that the Bostwick building should be saved. That was more good news.
Mayor Brown's opening remarks followed his usual outline and included his signature catchphrases "focus like a laser" and "take downtown to the next level".
Yeah, I came away with the feeling that Harris looked at this as being less time intensive than it really will be. You can't make real progress getting together, for an hour or two, once a month or bimonthly. I'm glad his initial opinion was changed.
Based on what you guys are saying about meetings and DIA board interest, it sounds like a lot of the success of the organization will contingent be on staff. Hopefully they can bring in a big time candidate from out of town to fill the ED role. Did they say any specifics about what they are looking for in an ED? Or how the agency will be staffed? Will they be hiring support staff....like say an Ennis Davis?
Quote from: Miss Fixit on October 18, 2012, 10:19:11 AM
I sat through the entire meeting and left with mixed feelings.
Most of the board have appropriate experience and a genuine interest in downtown.
Field referred to Mr. Perez several times in the live blog when it was actually the Chairman, Don Harris, who was proposing various members for positions and scheduling meetings. I was disappointed that Mr. Harris suggested meetings should occur only every other month, and he initially pushed back when other members suggested that the board should, in fact, meet more often than monthly. Fortunately good sense prevailed and the other members convinced Harris that having a meeting sooner rather than later was important.
It was obvious that several board members felt strongly that the Bostwick building should be saved. That was more good news.
Mayor Brown's opening remarks followed his usual outline and included his signature catchphrases "focus like a laser" and "take downtown to the next level".
You're right Chris... I meant to fix that last night and subsequently forgot.
I mirror your thoughts, incidently.
Don Shea has been tasked with preparing proposed selection criteria for the new ED. My impression is that he will have that ready to discuss at the next meeting.
Quote from: thelakelander on October 17, 2012, 02:42:51 PM
DIA chairman, Don Harris, has a serious look on his face. Looks like he's really taking this Sunshine Law overview in.
And good for him. When I arrived Carla Miller, Jason Gabriel, and Cindy Laquidara were addressing the new Board. According to a recent editorial in the TU Florida has lead the nation in corruption convictions for 10 years in a row. It may be a long detailed explanation and some are sitting up a little bit straighter in their chairs. Examples of how it doesn't take much to slip into the dark side. Corruption can wear many hats.
I'm just thinking to myself running a red light. getting a ticket and did I or did the camera get it wrong. Compared to a corruption conviction of a sunshine law violation and the thought that if I had just called Carla. Melody Bishop is asking about email and for right now Michelle Stephens at msteph@coj.net is in the process of getting email addresses for all the Board members.
As for future meetings when Mr. Harris said that once every two months may be the way to go it just seem to knock the wind out of the sails as to how everything else was sailing along. But the wind was put back in rather quickly by Shea, Bishop, Bailey, Allegretti, and maybe one or two others.
next meeting is Oct. 30. at 3pm. Not sure if it will be the same room or not.
We have a new Authority.
let's embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
I'll be downtown today, so I'll try and attend.
Meeting is at the Ed Ball bldg. and it starts at 2pm. Room 851.
3 hours out. New location and time. HUGE meeting starting at 2. Will JCCI be represented? The Historic Districts? Will there be coverage from the 3 TV networks? Will the room be packed or empty?
AGENDAS FOR TODAYS DIA MEETINGS
2:00 PM
Downtown Investment Authority
CEO SEARCH COMMITTEE
AGENDA
Members:
Don Shea, Chair CEO Search Committee
Oliver Barakat, Committee Member
Melody Bishop, Committee Member
Kay Harper, Committee Member
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. ACTION ITEMS
Job Criteria & Selection Process for CEO
• Schedule
• Job Criteria
• Solicitation
• Selection
III.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
IV.
ADJOURNMENT
Next Scheduled Meeting: TBD
Downtown Investment Authority Board
Ed Ball Building, 214 N. Hogan Street, 8th Floor
Boardroom 851
Tuesday, October 30, 2012 - 3:00 p.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER â€" Chairman Harris
Pledge of Allegiance
II. ACTION ITEMS - Chairman Harris
Approval of the October 17, 2012 DIA Meeting Minutes
Committee Report:
• Job Criteria & Selection Process for CEO - Don Shea (on going)
DIA Bylaws
III. INFORMATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS â€" Chairman Harris
CRA 101 - Jason Gabriel
Report on CRA Workshop Attended - Eric Lindstrom
Chamber Leadership Trip (Cincinnati) - Tony Allegretti
Update on Hemming Plaza - Karen Nasrallah
FL/GA Weekend Recap - Alan Verlander
Additions to Binder:
• IBM’s Smarter Cities Downtown Report
• Downtown Master Plan
• Downtown Action Plan
• CRA Plans
III. NEW BUSINESS â€" Chairman Harris
IV.
PUBLIC COMMENTS â€" Chairman Harris
V.
ADJOURNMENT â€" Chairman Harris
Next Scheduled Meeting: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 2:00 pm
Does the Ed Ball building have wifi?
I'm here for round two. Set up and ready to live blog.
I am here. Bill Hoff also just entered the room. MUCH smaller crowd than the first meeting. This meeting should really only cover the CEO search criteria.
I assume the Sunshine Law review took most of them out.
Karen Mathis from the Daily Record and Kevin from WJCT/NPR are here as well.
We're basically the entire crowd.
Ock, Noone and Lori Boyer are here as well.
Don Shea starts, says there are currently 11 of such CEO searches going on around the country right now. Usually around 4
Shea suggests that DIA should hire a search firm for CEO process. Time constraints and having a defined methodology for search process are noted as reasons to use a search firm instead of the board doing all of the leg work.
Shea gives examples of common practicies for CEO search criterias:
Downtown Georgetown (DC)
Norfolk, VA
Phoenix
Harris wants to know how we can tailor these to Jacksonville.
Office of General Counsel suggests typical process is 6 weeks from filing, first opportunity to file at Council is Nov 7th.
Shea wants to confirm that with Councilwoman Boyer. Says Nov 7th is committee week, so the 14th would be the first oppportunity to file bill, and last two weeks of December are off. So, first two weeks of January would be the first opportunity to comittee vote by Council.
Shea doesnt want to wait until mid Jan, asks Boyer if they file before Nov 7th can the process be expedited and meet individually with Council members and perhaps approved as emergency?
Boyer, yes possible. Emergency bills have more of a chance if you meet with everyone in advance. The issue would be you would need to have ample opportunity for public comment.
Harris is the Chair of DIA
Don Sheo heads the CEO Search Committee... who is meeting today. This is the only item on agenda. This is only for the CEO search committee which is Oliver Barakat, Melody Bishop, Kay Harper and of course Don Shea. Harris is here as well along with Paul Crawford and Eric Lindstrom of JEDC and Jason from General Counsel.
Kay Harper is nusing a cold today, incidentally
Quote from: stephendare on October 30, 2012, 02:13:37 PM
are there any board members missing?
Bailey, Allegretti, Perez, and Clements aren't present today.
This is a meeting of the search committee. The DIA board meeting is at 3:00
Paul Crawford mentions there is a professsional services account in the budget in the office of economic development to use for search committee, but would have to go through procurement which is subject to bid. City does have a search firm hired on contract at the moment.
Shea says this is a specialized field and that we wouldnt be gaining anything using someone that isn't familiar with how these things work by going with someone who hasn't had experience looking for CEO's that deal with downtown development corps.
Paul Crawford wants to 'avoid issues with procurement' by going outside of the firm who is on a continuous contract with the City.
Doesnt seem Bishop, Barakat and Shea want to go with the firm on contract with City... for obvious reasons, getting the best candidate available (real estate investment familiarity, budgets, economic development, inter-governmental relations, deal making, etc)
Harris repeats wanting criteria that is specific to Jacksonville, and having measurable timelines. Oliver believes we dont want to put the cart in front of the horse and really wants the process to play out (search firm guidance, interview process)
Board meeting is in the same room. Both agendas posted earlier in this thread.
Allegretti walks into the room
Shea and Bishop dont want to rush it and want time to absorb similar criterias presented from other cities. So, specific timelines arent as important as 'getting the right person'.
They are discussing budget issues. Shea tends to believe that this is 'buyer's market' b/c of so many similar searches going on around the country so DIA likely will be at the top end of any budget allocated.
Everyone is in favor of suggesting to the full board that a search firm is necessary.
Harper asks Shea what is the typical cost of search firms? She responds it's usually a percentage of first year compensation (maybe 30% with guarantees).
We are taking a short recess so comittee members can read over and absorb some of the criteria examples Shea provided from different cities.
As we get closer to 3, a few more spectators have entered the room.
And we're back.
Quote from: stephendare on October 30, 2012, 02:46:27 PM
Quote from: fieldafm on October 30, 2012, 02:43:32 PM
We are taking a short recess so comittee members can read over and absorb some of the criteria examples Shea provided from different cities.
As we get closer to 3, a few more spectators have entered the room.
anyone interesting?
The woman from the Urban CPAC that spoke at the Hemming meeting last week.
A few people whose faces I recognize, but not names.
Some cute blonde girl.
One of the public speakers from the last DIA meeting.. an elderly gentleman.
Any mention of how they plan to tailor the criteria that other cities used to meet the specific needs of Downtown Jax? Are they going to seek someone with specific skill sets like residential development, arts and entertainment, corporate relocations? Or are they still figuring it all out?
I can certainly appreciate the need to get this right and hire the right person....that said the clock is ticking. It took waaay too long to even set the DIA up. This city, this administration, and Downtown can't afford 6 months or a year to hire a CEO. The learning curve for a CEO who is new to the city would be 3 to 6 months to even hit the ground running. With that kind of time frame, we will barely even have anything to judge Mayor Brown on when its time for re-election in 2.5 years.
Shea is about to conclude the meeting with the promise that he will synthesize a very basic, general search criteria checklist primarily modeled after the Phoenix example.
Harper wants a bullet point about included about historic preservation, which is a 'huge deal in Jacksonville'
Crawford mentions he will have 'someone from HR here next time to talk about procurement issues'
CEO Search Committee meeting is over. The remaining board members are now filing in for the DIA Board meeting.
Doug Skiles just walked in as well.
What if Phoenix used a general search criteria checklist from some other city that was done 5 years ago? What if that city had used a checklist from some other city?
I know that the Phoenix example is probably needed as a general starting point, but they need to specifically tailor it to the needs and wants of Jacksonville, not to mention local, state, and regional trends.
Quote from: stephendare on October 30, 2012, 03:00:39 PM
Quote from: fieldafm on October 30, 2012, 02:57:08 PM
Crawford mentions he will have 'someone from HR here next time to talk about procurement issues'
any inkling what Crawford is going on about?
Isn't in his best interest that there is no national search conducted by an outside firm?
Haha. Long day. I meant to say, doesn't he want the CEO position? If so, its to his benefit that there not be a national search.
Jim Love, Ron Littlepage and Jack Shad enter.
Alan Verlander is on the agenda, although I dont see him here yet.
Action News is also here.
Harris starts the meeting.
Meeting starts. They are reviewing the minutes from the last meeting.
Minutes approved. Discussing first agenda item. Don Shea is providing the highlights of the CEO search discussion, which took place over the last hour.
Quote from: CityLife on October 30, 2012, 03:03:02 PM
Quote from: stephendare on October 30, 2012, 03:00:39 PM
Quote from: fieldafm on October 30, 2012, 02:57:08 PM
Crawford mentions he will have 'someone from HR here next time to talk about procurement issues'
any inkling what Crawford is going on about?
Isn't in his best interest that there is no national search conducted by an outside firm?
Sounded like he was just making the suggestion that it may be easier/quicker going with the City's current contract search firm... that's just me reading into it. Didnt sound like anybody really wanted to explore that option, opting instead to go forward with getting a search firm that is familiar with these types of searches so the best candidate can be identified.... especially in light of market conditions where several other cities (some high profile) are also looking to hire the same position. Sounded like Crawford wanted the comittee be aware of the legal process of bidding out such services.. again was my assumption.
Crawford is submitting by laws for consideration.
Bishop wants to know if a Treasurer position is needed. Harper believes that would overlap with the CEO's role. Shea mentions that it may be an oversight position and may be needed down the road once the actual budget is identified.
Jason Gabriel (Office of General Counsel) says the only requirement is that there be a Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary position.
By laws are universally approved by the Board.
Meeting agenda:
QuoteDowntown Investment Authority Board
Ed Ball Building, 214 N. Hogan Street, 8th Floor
Boardroom 851
Tuesday, October 30, 2012 - 3:00 p.m.
I. CALL TO ORDER â€" Chairman Harris
Pledge of Allegiance
II. ACTION ITEMS - Chairman Harris
Approval of the October 17, 2012 DIA Meeting Minutes
Committee Report:
• Job Criteria & Selection Process for CEO - Don Shea (on going)
DIA Bylaws
III. INFORMATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS â€" Chairman Harris
CRA 101 - Jason Gabriel
Report on CRA Workshop Attended - Eric Lindstrom
Chamber Leadership Trip (Cincinnati) - Tony Allegretti
Update on Hemming Plaza - Karen Nasrallah
FL/GA Weekend Recap - Alan Verlander
Additions to Binder:
• IBM’s Smarter Cities Downtown Report
• Downtown Master Plan
• Downtown Action Plan
• CRA Plans
III. NEW BUSINESS â€" Chairman Harris
IV.
PUBLIC COMMENTS â€" Chairman Harris
V.
ADJOURNMENT â€" Chairman Harris
Next Scheduled Meeting: Wednesday, November 14, 2012 at 2:00 pm
We just finished the Bylaws. Discussing CRA 101 now.
I'll ask for a copy after the meeting. Seeing as though it was just introduced and voted upon, it was not available previously (as it basically didnt exist).
The DIA is receiving an overview on the concept of a Community Redevelopment Area or Agency (CRA). The DIA is a CRA:
QuoteCommunity redevelopment is an economic development strategy which many local governments are currently using successfully to eliminate and prevent conditions of blight in their communities.
Deteriorating neighborhoods, dwindling commercial activity and job opportunities, concentration and persistence of criminal activity, inappropriate or obsolete land uses, poor transportation routes and extraordinary consumption of public services are some of the characteristics of blighted areas. Left unchecked, these conditions often lead to reduced property values, impairment of sound growth, retardation of the provision of housing and loss of private investor confidence.
In recognition of the serious and growing problems existing in some communities which jeopardize the health, safety, morals and welfare of the residents of Florida, the State, through Chapter 163, Part III, F.S., enabled local governments to address their worst economic and social environments by creating Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRA’s).
http://www.davie-fl.gov/gen/DavieFL_CRASrvices/WhatIsCRA
Jacksonville has four: JIA CRA, Moncrief/Soutel CRA, Northbank CRA, and Southbank CRA. The DIA will be required to create a CRA plan for the downtown area. The plan will have to include where land acquisition, affordable housing, preservation, etc. should occur. The CRA plan will have to fit with the city's Comprehensive Plan.
Gabriel mentions there are two CRAs in place for the Northbank and Southbank since 1981 and 1983. The DIA however is required to come up with a brand new plan for eventual Council approval.
Fieldafm had to leave. Eric Lindstrom is now providing the DIA with an overview of the Accountability and Transparency in CRA Reporting meeting held at the Florida Redevelopment Association annual conference in Daytona Beach last week.
Quote from: thelakelander on October 30, 2012, 03:35:01 PM
The DIA is receiving an overview on the concept of a Community Redevelopment Area or Agency (CRA). The DIA is a CRA:
QuoteCommunity redevelopment is an economic development strategy which many local governments are currently using successfully to eliminate and prevent conditions of blight in their communities.
Deteriorating neighborhoods, dwindling commercial activity and job opportunities, concentration and persistence of criminal activity, inappropriate or obsolete land uses, poor transportation routes and extraordinary consumption of public services are some of the characteristics of blighted areas. Left unchecked, these conditions often lead to reduced property values, impairment of sound growth, retardation of the provision of housing and loss of private investor confidence.
In recognition of the serious and growing problems existing in some communities which jeopardize the health, safety, morals and welfare of the residents of Florida, the State, through Chapter 163, Part III, F.S., enabled local governments to address their worst economic and social environments by creating Community Redevelopment Agencies (CRA’s).
http://www.davie-fl.gov/gen/DavieFL_CRASrvices/WhatIsCRA
Jacksonville has four: JIA CRA, Moncrief/Soutel CRA, Northbank CRA, and Southbank CRA. The DIA will be required to create a CRA plan for the downtown area. The plan will have to include where land acquisition, affordable housing, preservation, etc. should occur. The CRA plan will have to fit with the city's Comprehensive Plan.
Lots of detailed general CRA information in Eric Lindstrom's presentation. All DIA board members are still awake and engaged.
The crowd......not so much.
CRA presentation over. Chairman Harris has nominated Melody Bishop to chair the DIA on CRAs. Paul Perez will be the vice chair. Don Shea seconded it. Approved. Now Tony Allegretti is preparing to provide the DIA with a review of last week's Chamber Leadership Cincinnati trip.
Highlights from Tony's Cincinnati experience:
- Mayor of Cincinnati given key to Jacksonville.
- 3CDC is a Downtown Vision on steroids. Allegretti credited them with leading downtown's revitalization. They have an annual budget of $14 million. 3CDC has acquired several properties in Over-The-Rhine and converted them into mixed use projects.
- Mentions Washington Square Park as something similar to Hemming Plaza. Washington Square has recently been reconstructed and programming is a major component. The 3CDC manages both Downtown Vision and Fountain Square. Fountain Square has 350 events programmed in it annually.
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/photos/1912349438_Kcw6F8c-M.jpg)
Cincinnati's Fountain Square
- Jacksonville has more activity along its riverfront.
Quote from: stephendare on October 30, 2012, 04:11:42 PM
What are your impressions of Perez? Not acquainted with him.
No impression right now. Now the update on Hemming Plaza is taking place.
Hemming Plaza highlights by Karen Nasrallah:
- Founded in 1857 by Isiah Hart and is the oldest park in the city.
- 1960s becomes a bus depot.
- 1986, it was opened as a pedestrian mall in its current spot.
- Gambling, public drinking, fighting happening in park everyday.
- Nobody wants to use the plaza because of "safety" issue.
- Hemming Plaza ad hoc committee's first action was a survey by DVI. 1650 people responded.
- improvements suggested include remove dying trees and replace with low growing plants, move benches to perimeter of park, subcommittee split on removing chairs and tables but Karen mentions removable chairs and tables would be nice.
That should be percieved safety issue. Wlak and drive thru almost daily. Some crazy people yell from time to time. That is about it. There are cops there everyday all day so there is not much to worry about.
- Additional recommendations include hiring private security for the park from 7am-7pm. Also implement lunch time programming, allow MOCA and the library to use the park more, encourage businesses to have meetings in the park and consider food trucks.
- RFI (Request for Information) to solicit responses for potential operators and managers to best program and look for information in the park.
- Subcommittee met last week to discuss the RFI but the RFI wasn't discussed due to large crowd.
- Jim Piggot did a story on how dangerous Hemming Plaza is last night. Karen mentioned Hemming Plaza's problems isn't a homeless issue. The majority of people using the park have homes.
Karen Nasrallah believes $250k to $500k in first year to implement changes to park.
Oliver Barakat believes Hemming's future is a top 3 issue with downtown's future. Wants ad hoc committee to provide DIA with regular updates so the DIA can help shape Hemming's future.
Tony Allegretti mentions DVI has a picnic program for Hemming this Friday. Invites everyone to try and attend.
Chairman Don Harris wants someone from the DIA to attend each ad hoc committee meeting.
Alan Verlander now providing update on FL/GA weekend. We just lost Action News. Looks like they were here to cover the Hemming update.
Clement mentions game traffic was horrible compared to downtown. Verlander mentions this was because more fans linger in downtown instead of deserting the area, like during Jags games. Allegretti follows by mentioning that downtown businesses do better when fans linger and hang out in the area.
Jim Bailey mentions the FL/GA game's success is an example of why we shouldn't remove benches from Hemming. Says downtown works great when we add to the area (programming) instead of retracting.
Bill 2012-657 is an appeal to demolish the Bostwick Building. It's on hold until JHPC's meeting tomorrow. At that meeting, JHPC will decide if the Bostwick will be landmarked or not.
Don Shea recommends the DIA take a stand and not wait. Shea's recommendation is a DIA resolution that the city not issue a permit to demolish the Bostwick and that COJ uses all available legal methods to acquire the property. Oliver Barakat seconds it. Board votes to approve it.
Acting executive director of the Office of Economic Development, Paul Crawford, mentions they are still talking with Latitude 30, brainstorming with Intuition Ale, and that 200 Riverside will break ground soon. They are still in conversations with bank that owns Laura Trio, but nothing concrete. Laura Street clock has been gone for 16 months. Will be reinstalled within the next month. DDRB will review internal wayfaring signage for Baptist Medical Center, Parador garage follow up, and the Riverside YMCA design on Thursday. Paul Crawford also mentioned they are working with the developer to bring a Fresh Market to Riverside Avenue.
Getting late. Discussions on IBM Smarter Cities, DT master plan, DT action plan, and CRA plans deferred. On to new business. Chairman Harris wants Tony Allegretti to report on branding downtown as a destination. Allegretti accepts. On to public comments.
Councilwoman Boyer: Says, despite the DIA's CRA plan not being completed at the moment, the DIA is not restricted from being involved with projects currently proposed or underway.
Harris is really yucking up this 'downtown just needs more marketing' notion.
Not real comfortable with that. Downtown needs to be a better place to do business and live. I don't think downtown's solution is just is needing a better marketing campaign.
Ebbie Welch: Passes out map related to JSO to support her comments. Tonight I CARE has a meeting. Ebbie is a downtown resident. She's chair of SHADCO's zone 1. Concerned about economics of providing safety of various homeless groups. States that Hemming Plaza isn't a homeless issue. Residents are using the park. Chairman Harris interrupts her. Her three minutes are up.
She's still going. Chairman Harris has interrupted her a second time. Third interruption.
Noone to close things out.
Noone mentions Superstorm Sandy. Crowd is thinning out. Didn't expect the meeting to last till 6pm. Back to Noone, he suggests we develop our own disaster plans that includes the river. Now Noone closes it out with the DIA getting involved with FIND. Says the DIA is his new family. Chairman Harris says 3 minutes are up. Meeting adjourned.
Quote from: thelakelander on October 30, 2012, 05:04:03 PM
Bill 2012-657 is an appeal to demolish the Bostwick Building. It's on hold until JHPC's meeting tomorrow. At that meeting, JHPC will decide if the Bostwick will be landmarked or not.
Don Shea recommends the DIA take a stand and not wait. Shea's recommendation is a DIA resolution that the city not issue a permit to demolish the Bostwick and that COJ uses all available legal methods to acquire the property. Oliver Barakat seconds it. Board votes to approve it.
JHPC was last Wednesday. The commissioners decided that the (Bostwick) application was complete and that the commisioners would put it on the November agenda and open the topic up for public discussion.
Is this a special JHPC meeting for Bostwick that they are talking about?
Quote from: thelakelander on October 30, 2012, 05:37:10 PM
Noone mentions Superstorm Sandy. Crowd is thinning out. Didn't expect the meeting to last till 6pm. Back to Noone, he suggests we develop our own disaster plans that includes the river. Now Noone closes it out with the DIA getting involved with FIND. Says the DIA is his new family. Chairman Harris says 3 minutes are up. Meeting adjourned.
When is the next meeting. How does one go about getting something on the agenda...say... getting support to use a city-owned building for a Southern Music Hall of Fame?
Quote from: sheclown on October 30, 2012, 06:46:45 PM
Quote from: thelakelander on October 30, 2012, 05:04:03 PM
Bill 2012-657 is an appeal to demolish the Bostwick Building. It's on hold until JHPC's meeting tomorrow. At that meeting, JHPC will decide if the Bostwick will be landmarked or not.
Don Shea recommends the DIA take a stand and not wait. Shea's recommendation is a DIA resolution that the city not issue a permit to demolish the Bostwick and that COJ uses all available legal methods to acquire the property. Oliver Barakat seconds it. Board votes to approve it.
JHPC was last Wednesday. The commissioners decided that the (Bostwick) application was complete and that the commisioners would put it on the November agenda and open the topic up for public discussion.
Is this a special JHPC meeting for Bostwick that they are talking about?
Here is a follow up to your JHPC question:
QuoteThe City’s Historic Preservation Commission in late September denied that permit, which led to an appeal that will be heard by the Council Land Use and Zoning Committee. The appeal is not yet scheduled.
The commission is scheduled to meet today to determine the building’s historic designation and the appeal will be scheduled after that, said Council member Lori Boyer, who chairs the committee.
full article: http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537902
Quote from: fieldafm on October 30, 2012, 02:00:46 PM
I am here. Bill Hoff also just entered the room. MUCH smaller crowd than the first meeting. This meeting should really only cover the CEO search criteria.
For a meeting that was only supposed to cover the CEO search criteria it turned into a marathon that landed me my first $15 parking ticket in a long time. It appears that it will be an anything goes Authority that will just embrace picking the winners and losers and we'll figure out how to pay for all this stuff later on. In the meantime get ready to stick your hand out and get in line.
Intuition Ale I'd love to see you build your dream location next to the Bay St Entertainment Zone along our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative. Just show up and ask. That's all you have to do. Just show up. If one of the first recommendations can be a resolution for an eminent domain action by this DIA against a private land owner then a Public request by a business should be met with the same euphoric acceptance especially when it is the former Shipyards/ Landmar location. Total destruction of the Public Trust.
I arrived for the 2 o'clock meeting. There will now be another meeting Monday, Nov. 5 at 2pm. In the St. James bldg. first floor. The sole purpose is to fast track this for city council vote and approval. Kinda like the FSCJ Golden Parachute Ride by a Board. The JTA super thank you bailout package by a Board. The stuffing for Thanksgiving hopefully will be delivered by our city council for this Board.
I filled out the sign in sheet and in the future you can only hope and cross your fingers that there will be minutes of the previous meeting made available for the Public.
The highlight of the meeting and there were a couple. But to just touch on one and I'll have more later but I'm always amazed how an interim director and it never matters what dept. it is just passes the ball along. But I think of it as a fumble and the teammate picks it up and runs for a touchdown and then wins the game for the city. Thus was the case when Mr. Lindstrom was asked to go and then prepare a presentation for everybody. And that was the report on the CRA workshop. The man delivers when asked.
I have witnessed this before in the past and have been directly involved and again I have to give super props to Mr. Lindstrom in a very informative power point presentation that needs to be seen by the entire city council as well.
Hats off again to Love and Boyer for attending the meeting. Councilwoman Boyer we need to go kayaking and not just in Dist. 5.
As for Public Comments. I'm bringing my own timer next time.
Quote from: thelakelander on October 31, 2012, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: sheclown on October 30, 2012, 06:46:45 PM
Quote from: thelakelander on October 30, 2012, 05:04:03 PM
Bill 2012-657 is an appeal to demolish the Bostwick Building. It's on hold until JHPC's meeting tomorrow. At that meeting, JHPC will decide if the Bostwick will be landmarked or not.
Don Shea recommends the DIA take a stand and not wait. Shea's recommendation is a DIA resolution that the city not issue a permit to demolish the Bostwick and that COJ uses all available legal methods to acquire the property. Oliver Barakat seconds it. Board votes to approve it.
JHPC was last Wednesday. The commissioners decided that the (Bostwick) application was complete and that the commisioners would put it on the November agenda and open the topic up for public discussion.
Is this a special JHPC meeting for Bostwick that they are talking about?
Here is a follow up to your JHPC question:
QuoteThe City’s Historic Preservation Commission in late September denied that permit, which led to an appeal that will be heard by the Council Land Use and Zoning Committee. The appeal is not yet scheduled.
The commission is scheduled to meet today to determine the building’s historic designation and the appeal will be scheduled after that, said Council member Lori Boyer, who chairs the committee.
full article: http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537902
The Bostwick problem is two-fold for HPC. First is the denial of the demolition permit. The second is the forcing of landmark status which makes demolition in the future very difficult. HPC has determined that the application is complete to landmark, the November meeting will be a discussion about the landmark designation.
Bostwick sure as hell would make an amazing location for a Southern Rock and Blues Hall of Fame.
Next DIA Board meeting just 6 hours out. Anyone going? The list will go to city council. 2 pm room B 1st floor city hall.
Quote from: Ocklawaha on November 04, 2012, 09:44:19 PM
Bostwick sure as hell would make an amazing location for a Southern Rock and Blues Hall of Fame.
do it!
is it big enough? i would think you would want a little more sq footage. I like the old Stanton HS in Lavilla.
Meeting 3 hours out. Anyone going?
I can only afford to sit through so many 3 hour meetings in a month. Anyone live-blogging?
The only matter on the agenda (online) is the CEO position and selection criteria. I believe this is so they can get a bill introduced by Wednesday (11/7) to be heard at the 11/13 city council meeting. What other topics will they be covering?
I'm less than 7 days from my AICP exam. I'm locked down to studying for the majority of this week, so I won't be able to make it.
WOW! We are so Lost.
Did you make it? What happened?
I just sent you a pic. feel free to post it. I think it captures the meeting.
Can you provide a brief summary of the meeting for those who were unable to attend?
Next Scheduled Meeting: Wed., November 14, 2012 at 2:00 pm - Ed Ball Bldg., 8th Floor - HN851
David Chapman wrote about it in today's Daily Record. You can read it here:
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537953 (http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537953)
Next meeting 5 days out. On the agenda 2012-674. PARKING!!
I just payed my $15 parking ticket after attending my last DIA meeting. I'm All In.
It's a good thing in 802.105 We scratched out section F
Because in
802.106 Additional Parking Prohibitted- It will be unlawful, except as permitted in Section 802.105 (F)
We are so screwed.
Quote from: thelakelander on November 06, 2012, 06:46:50 AM
Can you provide a brief summary of the meeting for those who were unable to attend?
How fast can someone go to the dark side? Can you return from the dark side? It was a brief meeting. I counted maybe 16 people. How many we're not in a govt. paying position? How many actually from the Public?
Paul Crawford and Jason Gabriel were busy with all kinds of legislative options.
The guy who should have been at the meeting wasn't at the meeting but should be at the meeting today but the legislation discussed at the meeting was introduced at the Jacksonville city council meeting last night. The meeting today if the guy who didn't make the meeting for the last meeting is in fact at today's meeting and the Board even had one concern for the fast tracked meeting and wanted to offer an amendment for a future meeting will now have to make a special effort at the Committee meetings to address the concerns if the guy even shows up at today's meeting. According to the agenda the guy who everyone was waiting to hear from is not a guaranty for the meeting. So the meeting today may move forward from never even hearing from the guy who never even made one meeting.
I know I'm excited about that revalation.
Anyone going?
Downtown Parking is on the agenda. 2012-674.
A new Authority.
Embrace it
Or
It will embrace us.
Anyone going?
Quote from: Noone on November 14, 2012, 03:51:53 AM
Quote from: thelakelander on November 06, 2012, 06:46:50 AM
Can you provide a brief summary of the meeting for those who were unable to attend?
How fast can someone go to the dark side? Can you return from the dark side?
???. Umm, I like being on the dark side. ;)
Anyway, for those who want to see a summary of last week's meeting:
Quote from: dougskiles on November 06, 2012, 04:53:34 PM
David Chapman wrote about it in today's Daily Record. You can read it here:
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537953 (http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537953)
Anyone going?
Tomorrow, Huge monumental strategy meeting for the DIA at 2pm 1st floor Don Davis room city hall.
We are so LOST.
I will try to FIND this meeting.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
Anyone going?
why is this a huge meeting?
The next full agenda DIA meeting is in December I believe
Tomorrow's meeting will be about the CRA plan. This is a huge deal.
Next week (11/27), DIA will be discussing the parking ordinance (another big deal).
ah, so these are DIA committee meetings?
Quote from: fieldafm on October 17, 2012, 02:05:19 PM
PACKED house in here. Mayor is being photographed at this very moment.
Virtually every City Dept is represented.
Fever pitch in the room.
34 days later. First DIA committee meeting that will guide the entire direction of the CRA. Will it be packed or empty?
Anyone going?
Is councilwoman Lee OK? She is supposed to be on the agenda for the next DIA Board meeting for Hemming Plaza. We all know what happened with the committee meeting for Hemming Plaza. I wonder if I need to bring my own chair.
Any update on the missing parking meeting guy 2012-674? Obviously the strategy is working because it's moving through council.
Quote from: Noone on November 19, 2012, 07:18:17 PM
Any update on the missing parking meeting guy 2012-674? Obviously the strategy is working because it's moving through council.
Are you talking about Jack Shad? He presented at the last meeting (first on the agenda).
I assure you that he is not missing.
No, it's not Jack Shad.
Anyone going?
This is a Huge committee meeting first floor city hall 2pm.
Just under 10 hours out. Strategy meeting for the super expanded CRA.
Thanks to all of you who can attend and keep urban core issues in the forefront. They need to hear from those of us who live in the urban core. Wish some of these meetings were in the evening, but very grateful to those whose schedules can be rearranged and be flexible enough to bring the story and keep those of us who can't attend abreast of things.
The first committee meeting of our new DIA and the strategy for our CRA had me leaving the meeting with St. Johns River written on my hand and my new best Friend is DIA Board member Tony Allegretti. I've got a gut feeling were going to be FIND buddies and the timing couldn't be better.
There were only 4 people in attendance from the Public. Besides myself I recognized Doug Skiles, and councilwoman Lori Boyer. Committee chair Melody Bishop ran a great meeting and opened it up to everyone that wanted to participate. Mr. Harris and Mr. Allegretti were the only extra DIA Board members that attended this meeting in addition to Paul Perez.
One of the highlights for me and a shocker is that TIF as a potential funding source won't be available till 2017. Can that be true?
Sound like we need to FIND FIND now. During Public Comment I mentioned FIND also 2009-442 and mentioned that the administration is now aware of this pre TIF 2017 Bennie for Downtown.
So who wants to Make a scene in a Post Thanksgiving day paddle Downtown. Special shout out to my new Best Friend. Or anyone else who wants to write a check for even a buck to supporting (Local) the Artificial Reef Trust Fund that will tell the world that we are joining Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.
Thanks for the update, Noone.
No problem. Hope the MJ team may be able to make some of the future ones and not just the bells and whistle photo ops.
Doug, Hope you share some perspective.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
Lake or anyone, How about the TIF remark?
Yes. MJ is bigger than just four or five guys. I'm happy to see everyone involved. Considering i'm not from Jacksonville, it helps me keep track of what's going on when I'm out of town spending time with my family for the holidays.
Downtown has two TIFs - Southbank and Northbank. The Southbank TIF is generating close to 2 million per year in revenue. The Northbank TIF is negative. I previously thought that was because the taxable value is lower now than when it was setup. But apparently that is not the case. It is negative because of debt from past projects. Which projects, I don't know. This is something that needs to be understood and addressed. Not so that we can blame anyone, so that we can learn (hopefully) from past experience.
Steve Lovett was the other attending at the DIA meeting. He provided valuable remarks at the end about the need to set policy FIRST and then evaluate action based on how well it aligns with policy.
That's interesting news about the Northbank TIF. I wonder how much debt remains and how long it will take to pay off, based on the current set up.
Hasn't some of the TIF funds from the past been diverted to other things? I remember reading that not so long ago.
Lake, I assume the debt level won't decrease significantly until 2017.
If I remember what Paul Crawford* said at a recent Urban Core CPAC meeting, the Northbank TIF will be negative until 2017. He rattled off a list of projects, but I didn't take notes and don't remember what they are.
* What is Paul's status now that a new Downtown Czar (sorry) has been hired? Is Paul still around?
Yes, the 2017 date is my understanding from the CPAC meeting as well. And it is from the debt of yesterday's projects. Apparently those projects will begin to repay the fund in 2017.
I agree with Debbie. It is tough to make meetings during the day. Paying jobs get in the way. But I sure do appreciate it when others go and fill us in. Thanks!
Quote from: vicupstate on November 23, 2012, 01:54:51 PM
Hasn't some of the TIF funds from the past been diverted to other things?
Great question.
Jacksonville Waterways FIND Committee meeting in two hours on the Secret list that will have massive and HUGE ramifications for our new DIA and CRA in the USA.
Anyone going?
9:30 4th floor city hall open to the PUBLIC
Only 2 people from the PUBLIC was at the Secret Jacksonville Waterways Commission Committee meeting on the 2013 FIND grant project list that will and should have DIA and CRA oversight on certain listed projects.
Board meeting of the DIA in 7 hours?
Will there be a presentation by Denise Lee for Hemming Plaza?
Will our new Branding be announced?
2012-674 is on the Agenda. Free Parking for everyone. Especially city council members.
Anyone going?
So what happened with 2012-674 at city council last night?
Does anybody know what happened to the DIA legislation last night after an appearance by Mia Jones, Chris Hand, Lori Boyer, Doyle Carter to 2012-674 at the DIA Board meeting and subsequent city council meeting?
Quote from: stephendare on November 23, 2012, 11:04:28 AM
Quote from: Noone on November 23, 2012, 10:59:03 AM
No problem. Hope the MJ team may be able to make some of the future ones and not just the bells and whistle photo ops.
Doug, Hope you share some perspective.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
Lake or anyone, How about the TIF remark?
noone. we count both you and doug as the mj team. :)
Stephen, 8 days out from the next DIA Board meeting 2pm city hall 1st floor. Would you consider writing a check for a buck to 2009-442 that can be presented to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission at the 9:30 am meeting. This isn't the only opportunity and won't be the last but what a message to send.
Quote from: stephendare on December 04, 2012, 08:56:52 AM
I dont understand what you are asking me to do, Noone?
I think Noone is asking you to make a $1 donation for the bill to help the trust #2009-442 known as the "Artificial Reef Trust Fund." Even a dollar in there would make it valid and eligable for future donations. I assume this has to do with maintaining conservationism and opening up the St. Johns River to the people?
-Josh
Quote from: Noone on December 04, 2012, 03:28:56 AM
Quote from: stephendare on November 23, 2012, 11:04:28 AM
Quote from: Noone on November 23, 2012, 10:59:03 AM
No problem. Hope the MJ team may be able to make some of the future ones and not just the bells and whistle photo ops.
Doug, Hope you share some perspective.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
Lake or anyone, How about the TIF remark?
noone. we count both you and doug as the mj team. :)
Stephen, 8 days out from the next DIA Board meeting 2pm city hall 1st floor. Would you consider writing a check for a buck to 2009-442 that can be presented to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission at the 9:30 am meeting. This isn't the only opportunity and won't be the last but what a message to send.
Two days out. Huge announcements
.
Quote from: stephendare on December 04, 2012, 08:56:52 AM
I dont understand what you are asking me to do, Noone?
Just write a check for a $1.00
Make it out to the city of Jacksonville.
Write 2009-442 on the check.
Also write Artificial Reef Trust Fund on the check.
You will immediately make an impact and we will be joining Mayor Brown in making Downtown A Destination and not a pass through when it comes to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.
Anyone going? Today at 2 first floor city hall.
I plan on being there
Working. Please post updates either during or after the meeting if any of you go. Thanks!
Next DIA/CRA in the USA board meeting 12/20/12 at 2 pm 1st floor city hall.
This CRA plan is going to define much of what happens in Downtown for the foreseeable future. DIA needs (and wants) as much public participation as possible. If you have posted ideas on this forum for Downtown in the past, this is your opportunity to put them in motion.
May Mayor Brown and the DIA have as much success here as Rick Baker had in St. Pete.
http://www.manhattan-institute.org/seamlesscity/ (http://www.manhattan-institute.org/seamlesscity/)
^No kidding. He was in town this week. Did you get a chance to meet him?
I'll be in DT St. Pete this Sunday through Tuesday. Will be taking pics.
^Say hey to Barton if he is out there. Please take some pics of there pier if they have one. I'll be in DT Jax checking out our restricted zones from the water. Also gathering info for our DIA/CRA in the new BID.
Quote from: urbanlibertarian on December 14, 2012, 02:34:36 PM
May Mayor Brown and the DIA have as much success here as Rick Baker had in St. Pete.
http://www.manhattan-institute.org/seamlesscity/ (http://www.manhattan-institute.org/seamlesscity/)
He was on Melissa Ross' show earlier this week
http://www.wjct.org/radio/first_coast_connect (http://www.wjct.org/radio/first_coast_connect)
If you weren't at ULI on Tuesday and grabbed a copy of his book, Chamblins just ordered a few to have in stock. Great read!
Quote from: Noone on December 15, 2012, 05:44:19 AM
^Say hey to Barton if he is out there. Please take some pics of there pier if they have one. I'll be in DT Jax checking out our restricted zones from the water. Also gathering info for our DIA/CRA in the new BID.
I'll get some pics. That's most likely where I'll rent a few bikes on Monday to ride the Pinellas Trail to Clearwater.
(http://www.metrojacksonville.com/photos/thumbs/lrg-8058-p1170706.JPG)
St. Petersburg Pier (2008)(http://www.metrojacksonville.com/photos/thumbs/lrg-8080-p1170741.JPG)
Pinellas Trail in downtown St. Pete.
The new Bulkhead down from RAM is awesome. ^Is that the fishing pier that they saved? Or is there another one?
that's the pier that has been around since the 1920s....and there is currently a plan to completey rebuild/replace it....do some googling to learn about what they call the eye
Quote from: thelakelander on November 23, 2012, 01:08:56 PM
That's interesting news about the Northbank TIF. I wonder how much debt remains and how long it will take to pay off, based on the current set up.
Great question. What is the answer? Next DIA subcommittee meeting 3 days out. Thurs. the 20th at 2pm first floor. What were the TIF projects? RAM dock is one.
Quote from: dougskiles on November 23, 2012, 01:03:09 PM
Downtown has two TIFs - Southbank and Northbank. The Southbank TIF is generating close to 2 million per year in revenue. The Northbank TIF is negative. I previously thought that was because the taxable value is lower now than when it was setup. But apparently that is not the case. It is negative because of debt from past projects. Which projects, I don't know. This is something that needs to be understood and addressed. Not so that we can blame anyone, so that we can learn (hopefully) from past experience.
Steve Lovett was the other attending at the DIA meeting. He provided valuable remarks at the end about the need to set policy FIRST and then evaluate action based on how well it aligns with policy.
Doug,
Just received my minutes and notice of the next DIA subcommittee meeting.
Did you sign the sign in sheet for the 11/20/12 DIA subcommittee meeting? because you aren't listed in the minutes as attending.
What are the TIF projects on the Northbank that have us 5 years out in debt till 2017? Anyone? Good concern.
There is more info in your one sentence on Steve than what is being reported anywhere. Especially the minutes. Not Good.
especially for our new Authority.
Everyone excited about our back door in the dark SECRET FIND prioritized Project list for 2013? Anyone going to the 12/20/12 meeting?
Quote from: Noone on December 18, 2012, 01:23:44 AM
Doug,
Just received my minutes and notice of the next DIA subcommittee meeting.
Did you sign the sign in sheet for the 11/20/12 DIA subcommittee meeting? because you aren't listed in the minutes as attending.
I must have missed it.
Quote from: Noone on December 18, 2012, 01:23:44 AM
What are the TIF projects on the Northbank that have us 5 years out in debt till 2017? Anyone? Good concern.
I am still trying to find the answer too.
One day out. Our new DIA/CRA in the USA. Anyone going? Anybody care?
How will Public comments be shared in the minutes going forward?
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or
It will embrace us.
Quote from: Noone on November 14, 2012, 03:51:53 AM
Paul Crawford and Jason Gabriel were busy with all kinds of legislative options.
The guy who should have been at the meeting wasn't at the meeting but should be at the meeting today but the legislation discussed at the meeting was introduced at the Jacksonville city council meeting last night. The meeting today if the guy who didn't make the meeting for the last meeting is in fact at today's meeting and the Board even had one concern for the fast tracked meeting and wanted to offer an amendment for a future meeting will now have to make a special effort at the Committee meetings to address the concerns if the guy even shows up at today's meeting. According to the agenda the guy who everyone was waiting to hear from is not a guaranty for the meeting. So the meeting today may move forward from never even hearing from the guy who never even made one meeting.
I know I'm excited about that revalation.
8 hours out. Anyone going? Anybody care? What are we trying to Transform again?
Will anyone from the media be there? 2012 is 2025.
Huge red flag about Public Comment especially as it relates to the minutes.
Is there one MJ'er who wants to write a check for a buck to 2009-442?
I will deliver it personally at a DIA/CRA in the USA board meeting.
It can be deposited into a BID account.
B-BACK
I-IN
D-DOWNTOWN
In the meantime is there anyone who wants to kayak and fish under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before Waterways?
I am Downtown and why you aren't.
15 people in the audience. Mike Field was there and too bad he wasn't live blogging.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us.
I mentioned during Public Comment
2009-442 The Artificial Reef Trust Fund
Also mentioned that the 2013 FIND grant application is not finalized and asked that the DIA seek a project that could be taken back to the commissioners of FIND. This can happen.
mentioned Shipyards III ( The total Destruction of the Public Trust) The Historic Promised 680' Downtown Public Pier
Melody asked me about a timeline.
I said April.
Council just passed 2012-402
After the meeting I reached out and spoke with Scott Wilson. Scott is The assistant to my elected legislative representative Don Redman District 4 and shared with him that Don can still be the hero and restore the Public Trust that has just been totally destroyed in this community by sponsoring the pier as a FIND project and work with this newly created DIA/CRA in the USA. Scott will pass on the message to Don.
That is working through the legislative process.
The 12/20/12 Downtown Investment Authority CRA Plan Committee was jam packed with information.
I counted 15 people in attendance up from the 4 from the last meeting. Mike, I hope you share your observations from the meeting especially how you were acknowledged.
DIA Board members Barakat, Allegretti, and Harris were there.
I didn't realize it but the Empowerment Zones sunsetted in 2011.
A lot was discussed but the highlight for me is the recognition for the Inclusion of the Recreational Fishing Alliance into the Process that identifies stakeholders. The announcement of the new BASS pro shops store to the region is a plus. How many times does every Board member mention the St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative that runs through the middle of our new 20 plus square mile Authority Zone? Of coarse it's abbreviated much more than my elongated version. But it's TRUE.
Another powerful highlight was making the committee aware that the Duval county FIND grant application cycle for 2013 is wide open and that because of this new Authority the opportunity exists today for the DIA to weigh in on a resolution of support for a project that is within their ZONE of AUTHORITY. Board member and committee Chair Melody Bishop asked me what the timeline is and I told her that we have until April. And because of 2012-402 this resolution will also require city council approval as well. In my opinion it is the easiest slam dunk out there. The state of Florida will be watching.
Ben Warner, JCCI, We need to kayak Downtown before 2025.
Paul Crawford and Jason Gabriel coached members to attend the Jan.2 Rules Committee meeting. 9:30 is the agenda meeting and 10am is the actual meeting where a DIA piece of legislation is pending.
The next Board meeting is Jan. 9. Can't wait. We may finally FIND FIND!
A new Authority.
Embrace it
Or
It will Embrace Us.
5 days out city council Committee meetings on DIA legislation start. Anyone going? There were some huge announcements made at the last Committee meeting. Mike, Hope you share an observation or two.
Perez wasn't there so the minutes of the last meeting couldn't be approved. The next full DIA Board meeting should rock.
In less then 24 hours DIA legislation starts through city council committees. First up Rules. 9:30 agenda meeting and 10am. Is the start. Anyone going?
Should DIA weigh in on 2012-719? transferring $50,000 from Public Parking to Clerk of Courts to pay for jury shuttle. just asking now that we have the taxpayer subsidized garage now across the street from the new Courthouse. Are we saving or losing money?
Next full meeting of the DIA board is Jan.9 2pm. Ed Ball building.
3 hours out. Rules. Anyone going? Will Executive salary be cut in half or less? Do we know the TIF projects that have us in debt till 2017? Courthouse parking 2012-719?
DIA Board members that were there for 2012-629, 2012-680 were Allegretti, Harris, and Bailey.
Haven't been to a Rules meeting in a while. last time was when 2010-856 and the one mile transient vendor ban was an active piece of legislation.
Today's meeting was Unbelievable.
Congratulations to Scott Shine 2012-715 to Waterways.
Next DIA Board meeting in 7 days.
9 hours out. Anyone going? I am tremendously concerned and alarmed at how the Public Comment minutes are being reported or not being reported. Huge Red Flag!
A new Authority.
Embrace It.
Or
It will Embrace us.
Ted Carter is here, new CEO of Economic Development Office is here along with potential new DIA appointee Mike Saylor.
Paiul Crawford is talking about drafting an RFP for the Sax property in La Villa. Says it should be ready next week and will be good for 60 days. RFP will have the option for both purchase or land lease.
Full house, JBJ, a large contingent from the TU along with Daily Record.
Ashley from JBJ looks particularly fascinating :)
I'm glad you're live blogging the meeting. I had planned to go but something came up.
Crawford talking about supervised of election office. Crawford does not know what Clay Yarborough intends to do with ordinance 2012-730 about moving SOE to Sax. Barakat wants to ensure the DIA RFP on Sax does not interfere with SOE search. RFP should establish market price and what the highest and best use of the property. Wants to make sure SOE has a plan B in case a private developer submits a good proposal.
Proposals will probably be contingent on what the RFP states. Given the location of that parcel and the high daily traffic count, market rate wise, strip commercial should work. SOE on that site should be a last case option, imo.
Harris moves to nominate Barakat to lead up the CEO Search committee in Don Shea's absence.
The motion was never seconded but everyone seemed to operate under the assumption that Barakat is now chairing this committee. Barakt was really pushing for action to get the RFP for the firm search done by Monday. Harris wanted it in 7 days.
Ron Littlepage has new competition for best beard with fellow outdoorsman Mike Saylor present. Previously Littlepage defeated Tony Allegretti but Saylor presents a very distinguished challenger of gentlemanly facial prowess.
Sorry my spelling/gramar sucks, doing this on IPhone
Crawford now talking about Southbank Riverwalk. Expects underwater land lease signoffs to be done shortly and
That building permits should be pulled around June/July and construction to be complete at the end of 2014
The 1/9/13 Board meeting of the DIA was well attended. I arrived later after attending the earlier meeting of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission and first up on that agenda was a Sunshine Presentation by Carla Miller and Jason Gabriel of OGC. We are so LOST.
When I got there Parking was being discussed and it's an interesting issue. Jan. 1, 2013 triggered new regs.
We have 14 lots certified with over 200 acres of parking. Accessory lots seem to be the new loop hole for certain compliance.
Speaking of Parking loopholes. Council introduces 2012-202. Withdraws 2012-202. Slips it in the budget. FREE PARKING!
The highlight for me and the primary reason that I wanted to be there was to speak during Public Comment and this entire community should be outraged and immediately concerned about how the minutes are being reflected back to this community. I believe there were 4 speakers for Public comment at this meeting.
An example of my concern how Public Comment is being reflected back to the community is a meeting that both Doug Skiles and myself spoke. Doug, feel free to jump in and critique me anytime on this.
Doug, talks about the removing of the tables and chairs from Hemming Plaza and uses a story to convey his opposition to the action for removal of the tables and chairs.
I talk about Shipyards III and the FIND process and the role that the DIA could play right now.
In the minutes for Public Comment
Doug Skiles- Name and address. See the tape.
John Nooney- Name and address. See the tape. There is a comment that Tony Allegretti requested that I supply the Board with more information.
But just stop a minute and think about this. This is our brand new spanking Authority. We want everyone involved. You have a thought, idea, concern, suggestion, and from here on out you take out time from work. Sit and wait for the legislative opportunity to address this new Board and now going forward for months and years ahead you are nothing but a name and address. See the tape. WOW!
Doug, I'm not picking on you but the Hemming Plaza tables and chairs is an active piece of legislation 2012-732 and so at the very least your comments should have been reflected. Didn't DVI sponsor a resolution for the removal? Has the DIA also sponsored such a resolution for the removal. Doug Skiles, Hemming Plaza, opposes the removal. Instead, Doug Skiles, name and address-see the tape.
I don't know about any of you but I think it's just wrong. So back to FIND. Who should be recognized for the circumventing of ad valorem property tax revenue in a Public Process for direct personal gain? Glad the Palms Fish Camp deal seems to be moving forward.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace us
Are the tapes of the DIA meetings available online?
I believe the only meetings online are those videotaped in Council Chambers. You would have to ask Michelle (with OED) for the tape. I agree with Noone, it would be nice to have a little more in the minutes.
3 days out from the next DIA/CRA in the USA Plan Committee meeting at 10 am 1 st floor city hall. Anyone going? Identifying Stakeholders was a big part of the last meeting. Let's all see how this gets reported, identified, and prioritized.
Scott Wilson, Palmer Terrace Park kayak launch Dist. 4 needs the new kayak logo and can we get a couple of the tables and chairs that are getting yanked, pulled, scrapped, relocated, stored, or just what is the plan on 2012-732 Hemming Plaza. What was the original cost to buy them and have them installed at Hemming Plaza? Does the current DIA Board have the answer? Anyone know?
We are so LOST. Governor Scott, Pam Bondi, Angela Corey join us as the next DIA/CRA in the USA is meeting in less than 10 hours and 4 people, 15 people and how many will show up at today's meeting as we get ready to announce the Vision in two days at the Prime Osborn for the people of Jacksonville.
Anyone going? Anyone care? In my opinion this is a HUGE meeting and I will be extremely concerned as to the minutes and the inclusion and exclusion of groups that are being recognized. Field, are you going to make it today? I can understand if you can't with the Dumbo, Jumbo, pachyderm event on city property tomorrow. Sounds like an easier event to book than an Art Walk event.
Mr. Bostwick, I hope you get your asking price and the building is saved. Palms Fish Camp, Somebody is getting a million and why?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us.
Less than two hours out. Anyone going? Does even 1 MJ'er want to write a check for a buck to 2009 -442? The Artificial Reef Trust Fund. It's a TRUST fund. Everyone see the story about Palms Fish Camp in the TU today? Total absolute Destruction of the Public Trust in Jacksonville.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace us.
Today at 2. Anyone going? Huge plan for Hemming Plaza to be announced.
I'll be there. I may live blog it.
I'm going to type this out of Field's old thread. Until my parking meter time is up (around 3:45pm), I'm going to live blog today's DIA meeting.
Jack Shad is up to talk about the parking meter app trial.
- 3 month trial of real-time parking meter sensors.
- The sensors are installed and should be operational by March Art Walk.
- 100 meters are apart of the trial. Most are located in the retail heart of the Northbank.
- The company providing COJ with the free trial is called Street Line.
Oliver Barakat provides the DIA with an update on the JAX 2025 visioning process and the survey results. He points out that downtown revitalization was a priority of survey participants. Learn more about JAX 2025 survey here:
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/article/2013-jan-jax-2025-survey-results
Tony Allegretti makes a motion to support the Mayor's downtown reinvestment plan, which calls for $9 million to DT, with an eye on future savings as well. Motion passes.
DIA discusses Richard Clark's proposed three year mobility fee moratorium. Paul Crawford explains how it would be bad for leveling the redevelopment playing field for downtown. DIA wants to study the impact of the moratorium on downtown. Next meeting, the DIA will discuss passing a resolution to oppose Clark's moratorium resolution.
Great to hear. Thanks Lake
DIA will have a special meeting to discuss the mobility plan moratorium in advance of the Feb. 26th public hearing. Meeting date and time TBA. I think I know where we all need to be.
Jim Robinson, director of Public Works, provides the DIA with an update on the Southbank Riverwalk.
$15 million is set aside for the project. Construction will start this summer. Construction to be a sequence of "demolish-build" starting at the Friendship Fountain moving towards the School Board Building.
- Shade structures will be installed in front of the Crowne Plaza garage and Gate Riverplace (old Gulf Life Tower).
- There is consideration to eliminate the existing riverwalk near the school board office to stop fishing and illegal parking. If this happens, it would be built in a way to where it could easily be extended at a later date.
- June/July start date. Should take a full year to complete.
- Project will not result in better connection with the Main Street Bridge. The two museum structures on either side of the museum will be removed.
JTA's new CEO Nat Ford, who started on Dec. 3, is now speaking. He fills the DIA in on the details of his recently announced reorganization plan. Learn more about the plan here:
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/article/2013-jan-jta-unveils-major-reorganization-plan-
Ford mentions that he is a resident of downtown Jacksonville now. Speaks of his experience running San Francisco's system and offers to be a resource to the DIA for multimodal transportation planning and development in downtown.
Oliver Barakat and Tony Allegretti mention their support for the skyway and question the duplication of service by the proposed BRT project.
Hemming Plaza situation update:
- HART of Jacksonville - a proposed non-profit organization to run Hemming Plaza. They have a video with Transform Jax Hemming Plaza white paper quotes leading it off.
- Hemming Arts Recreation Team (H.A.R.T.), named after Isiah Hart.
- A 501C, HART would program events in Hemming and form partnerships with other groups to enhance Hemming.
- Louis Kahn Park (Philly) and Denny Park (Seattle) used as examples.
- Target date or HART would be having it established by One Spark Festival.
Unfortunately, this is the end of my live blog. My meter time is up.
I believe they decided to study Hemming a bit more....which means HART is unlikely to be up by One Spark
Quote from: thelakelander on February 13, 2013, 03:24:22 PM
- There is consideration to eliminate the existing riverwalk near the school board office to stop fishing and illegal parking. If this happens, it would be built in a way to where it could easily be extended at a later date.
This is not good.
A lot of time, money and energy has been expended in planning for the redevelopment of the JEA Southside Generating Station, which is the rightful easterly terminus of the Southbank Riverwalk. The failure to extend the Riverwalk in "front" of the School Board Building in this new design potentially jeopardizes the success of that redevelopment, in that it may remove an offsetting pedestrian mobility feature that was envisioned in the Downtown Concurrency Exception Area. DDRB will need to vet these design changes against previous commitments and may have to remind the DCSB that they are obligated to abide by the same legislation as their private sector neighbors.
^I am equally concerned about these changes to the riverwalk design, and apparently with no community input.
I also heard them say that there will be NO connection from the east side of the Main Street Bridge to the riverwalk simply because the hotel doesn't want too much activity behind their property.
In this case, someone walking (or running as I did yesterday right after the meeting) on that side of the bridge will see the riverwalk and have no perceivable access to it. They would either have to go to Riverplace Blvd and then all the way down to the Strand/Peninsula to cross (which has it's own issues - lack of signage, sidewalk) OR cross back under the expressway, go back up the bridge, and use the sidewalk to Friendship Fountain and then back under the bridge.
And again, these decisions are being made with no community input and because of ONE private property owner.
I understand everyone is anxious to get these projects started, however, these are decisions we will be stuck with for many years to come. If they need another 6 months to get this right, by all means, take it.
^+1
Pretty impressed to hear that Mr. Ford is a downtown resident. Hopefully this will shape his ideas on how transportation downtown can vastly be improved.
It is a head-scratcher that we mandate as part of new development approvals along the river the participation by private landowners in the continuation and construction cost of Riverwalk elements, while caving-in to existing property owners who choose to "opt-out" of government-funded improvements to government-owned infrastructure that in fact adds to the value of those properties that are getting the free public ride. Fortunately the DDRB is obligated to review the new Riverwalk design and they do have the authority to reject all or part of the design.The opportunity for public input on these significant functional changes is not lost.
Here is what I'm talking about (scroll right to see the entire image):
(http://i47.tinypic.com/33cner6.jpg)
What are the laws for riverfront access? At the beach, the public has access below the high tide line. If the riverwalk is built out over open water, like a dock, can the property owners block the construction like that? Do they own the river too?
When I lived at the Peninsula, we would just jump off the onramp into the Crown Plaza's grass and then walk home on the riverwalk. I no longer live over there, but I imagine other people are still doing the same thing.
This would be the 2nd or 3rd time the schoolboard property has obstucted the public good. If they had allowed an easement through their parking lot, at least a portion of the San Marco Riverfront District project would have been built before the bust, which would make continuing to develop that parcel much easier. They refused to sell their mulit-million dollar property despite the school system being woefully underfunded.
They have no business being on the river, so I think any objections they have should be invalid.
Quote from: dougskiles on February 14, 2013, 05:52:05 AM
^I am equally concerned about these changes to the riverwalk design, and apparently with no community input.
I also heard them say that there will be NO connection from the east side of the Main Street Bridge to the riverwalk simply because the hotel doesn't want too much activity behind their property.
In this case, someone walking (or running as I did yesterday right after the meeting) on that side of the bridge will see the riverwalk and have no perceivable access to it. They would either have to go to Riverplace Blvd and then all the way down to the Strand/Peninsula to cross (which has it's own issues - lack of signage, sidewalk) OR cross back under the expressway, go back up the bridge, and use the sidewalk to Friendship Fountain and then back under the bridge.
And again, these decisions are being made with no community input and because of ONE private property owner.
I understand everyone is anxious to get these projects started, however, these are decisions we will be stuck with for many years to come. If they need another 6 months to get this right, by all means, take it.
Who owns and maintains the bulkhead, I wonder (state, fed)? If the Crowne is going to play hardball, the City should phone-a-friend and play it themself. The property is kept dry and accessible by tax dollars, for which the public deserves consideration. Anyway, the better-functioning riverwalk is in the interest of the hotel. Those idiots!
Quote from: Debbie Thompson on February 15, 2013, 08:52:05 AM
What are the laws for riverfront access? At the beach, the public has access below the high tide line. If the riverwalk is built out over open water, like a dock, can the property owners block the construction like that? Do they own the river too?
I believe the property is private until you hit the water (maybe MLW in this case). Any private docks, etc are built on easements from the state I'd imagine. Not like the beaches where the public owns the land, but there are still some rights. I don't see why this couldn't be done in a way that supersedes the property rights of the hotel.
DIA meeting 3/1/13 on 2013-94 first floor city hall at 9am. Open to the Public.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or it
Will Embrace Us.
2009-442-Anyone?
Is there a list of all members with their email addresses anywhere? Thanks
Quote from: Noone on February 25, 2013, 06:14:11 PM
DIA meeting 3/1/13 on 2013-94 first floor city hall at 9am. Open to the Public.
A new Authority.
Embrace it.
Or it
Will Embrace Us.
2009-442-Anyone?
the purpose is to discuss the mobility fee
^2 hours out.
At noon in 2c city hall, Transparancy and Open Government.
On the agenda text messaging.
Speaking at a noticed meeting.
Today's one issue meeting was supposed to be relatively short (90 minutes)....after 3 hours of talking about the mobility fee, the DIA Board voted 6-1 to recommend to City Council that they deny the moratorium extension....Ennis gave a short presentation chock full of facts on why the fee needs to stay in place.
Tufsu1, this is very good news. Thank you for keeping us up to date on this meeting and thank you Ennis for giving this presentation!
Who was the one vote in support of a moratorium?
^Jim Bailey....although he may not have been in favor of the moratorium...perhaps he just didn't think DIA should weigh in...I left before the meeting was over, so I can't say for sure
Outstanding work, Ennis. I hope this gets the mayor up off his duff and speaking out against letting taxpayers take more hits for transportation needs.
Today, taught me that even their paid attorneys still have no clue to how the mobility plan/fee structure works or the impact of last year's moratorium on mobility fee waiver numbers through 2014. There was one point in the meeting where they, the planning department, and Jim Bailey were confused on whether the amount of mobility fees waived were $3.1 million, $4.8 million, or $5 million.
No one pointed out that a good chunk of projects moving forward this year are eligible for mobility fee waivers from last year's experiment, which will keep the total loss in fees rising as building permits are pulled this year. As of 2/13, funds waived were $4.8 million. As of today, it's above $5 million. I wanted to explain if every project that submitted a successful application pulled a permit before their time expires, fees waived by that one year trial period could easily crack $20 million.
The craziest thing though was a sheet showing all new development approved or underway between 9/19/2011 and 10/01/2012. Instead of putting in the total cost of each project, they put in the lower job cost. That total came out to $82 million, which they then attempted to claim by waiving $3.1 million in fees (that was the actual waived fee total last October), it created $82 million worth of work.
However, the spreadsheet clearly includes projects that didn't have a mobility fee (they just listed everything new started that year) and those (like 7-11) that were expanding regardless of the fee situation. Sitting in the audience, it drove me crazy that no one of the DIA recognized and questioned that and that I could not point it out to them. My guess is that half the council would not pick up on this either.
First, thank you Ennis for going and giving your presentation with valid facts and figures. I so feel your pain when you have to sit by and watch folks in leadership positions talking about issues of such great impact but clearly not understanding what is to be won and lost with each decision made. I wonder how many understood or appreciate the fact that you and others in this community do all of this because we want a better city and that the time and expertise is given at personal time and expense? Once realized, the incompetence of some in authority will drive you up the wall and then make you hit your head repeatedly on the rafters.
I don't understand why Jim Bailey would vote to push the moratorium. It makes no sense in view of it's past failure. I sure hope this is about misunderstood facts and not politics as I would be greatly disappointed if it were the latter.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 01, 2013, 04:42:57 PM
I wonder how many understood or appreciate the fact that you and others in this community do all of this because we want a better city and that the time and expertise is given at personal time and expense?
You can also add 'losing business simply as retribution for not getting with the government handout program' to your list as well.
Quote from: fieldafm on March 01, 2013, 09:15:20 PM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 01, 2013, 04:42:57 PM
I wonder how many understood or appreciate the fact that you and others in this community do all of this because we want a better city and that the time and expertise is given at personal time and expense?
You can also add 'losing business simply as retribution for not getting with the government handout program' to your list as well.
Sadly there is truth to this statement. I have seen this over and over in local government and politics. Folks have gotten contracts pulled and all sorts of things for having the nerve to speak views in opposition to what the powers that be want to see happen. Pathetic really.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 01, 2013, 09:26:50 PM
Sadly there is truth to this statement. I have seen this over and over in local government and politics. Folks have gotten contracts pulled and all sorts of things for having the nerve to speak views in opposition to what the powers that be want to see happen. Pathetic really.
The reality for me has been that it evens out. For every client I may have lost because of my publicly stated opinions on this, I have picked up one or more. Even my clients who I've had discussions with have told me that they respect my principled stand. I have found that people have short memories when it comes to disagreements over policy and long memories when it comes to integrity.
Voting as a member of a policymaking Board isn't always a simple black or white/right or wrong proposition. We see officials voting contrary to public opinion and even contrary to their own personal philosophies on occasion. A "surprise" vote by one member of a Board typically launches a debate about their motivations, as it has here.
We see Council members "pushing the wrong button" from time to time. It can be a simple matter of how the motion was stated and therefore misunderstood. But an intentional vote that goes contrary to the body can be many things, including an unspoken statement that goes something like,"I want to close this question out for now, but I needed more information to be comfortable in going with the majority." Or, "This debate isn't over, but I see how the vote is going and I'm going to vote in the minority to give the losing party someone to continue their dialogue with". OR, "I don't like that this issue has no compromise that is acceptable to the affected parties, and no matter how it shakes out neither side of the question is totally right nor totally wrong, and I want to make that statement." And finally, if your mother raised you right, your moral compass tells you that until you are 100% committed to your action, you vote "no".
There are plenty of variations on those themes, but if you want to really understand Mr. Bailey's vote, I suggest you ask him about it.
Quote from: dougskiles on March 02, 2013, 09:51:12 AM
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on March 01, 2013, 09:26:50 PM
Sadly there is truth to this statement. I have seen this over and over in local government and politics. Folks have gotten contracts pulled and all sorts of things for having the nerve to speak views in opposition to what the powers that be want to see happen. Pathetic really.
The reality for me has been that it evens out. For every client I may have lost because of my publicly stated opinions on this, I have picked up one or more. Even my clients who I've had discussions with have told me that they respect my principled stand. I have found that people have short memories when it comes to disagreements over policy and long memories when it comes to integrity.
I would agree with this on the whole and love the statement about integrity. I am glad you have gained and lost clients in a way that balances out.
On the flip side I know of many a small business and contractor who have done work for the city who once run afoul of someone at city hall find contracts yanked or future business difficult to secure. Some at the city do know how to hold a grudge and have long memories. I have helped more than a few of these people deal with situations like this. It shouldn't happen but it does and it happens in cities across the nation. We can't do much about that but we can try to keep some degree of fairness locally I believe.
Quote from: xplanner on March 02, 2013, 11:21:06 AM
Voting as a member of a policymaking Board isn't always a simple black or white/right or wrong proposition. We see officials voting contrary to public opinion and even contrary to their own personal philosophies on occasion. A "surprise" vote by one member of a Board typically launches a debate about their motivations, as it has here.
We see Council members "pushing the wrong button" from time to time. It can be a simple matter of how the motion was stated and therefore misunderstood. But an intentional vote that goes contrary to the body can be many things, including an unspoken statement that goes something like,"I want to close this question out for now, but I needed more information to be comfortable in going with the majority." Or, "This debate isn't over, but I see how the vote is going and I'm going to vote in the minority to give the losing party someone to continue their dialogue with". OR, "I don't like that this issue has no compromise that is acceptable to the affected parties, and no matter how it shakes out neither side of the question is totally right nor totally wrong, and I want to make that statement." And finally, if your mother raised you right, your moral compass tells you that until you are 100% committed to your action, you vote "no".
There are plenty of variations on those themes, but if you want to really understand Mr. Bailey's vote, I suggest you ask him about it.
All good examples xplanner and any of them can come into play. I know Jim to be a principled person and will ask him about it at some point. My guess is that he has been made to believe the moratorium will help in some way.
There is a good deal of politics at play here in backrooms regarding this issue.
When is the next DIA Board meeting or committee meeting? Anyone.
Next DIA Board meeting 3/20/13. Will there be anyone from the DIA at the Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting that is less then two hours for this Southbank Riverwalk presentation? Will this presentation be given and put on the agenda for the DIA? How about Downtown Vision? Is there a tour for this?
Meetining is at 9:30 in council chambers. This will have regional impact for our Waterways on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our newly created DIA zone.
Next DIA Board meeting 3 days out. Anyone going? Will we now be having RICO updates as part of the agenda?
A new Authority.
Embrace It.
Or It will Embrace us?
I'm tentatively planning on attending.
^same here - should be a good one. Mayor Brown signs the $9 million bill at 1:45 before the DIA meeting.
7 hours out. For Historic DIA Day.
So what happened at our DIA in the USA Board meeting?
Took place right after the photo op signing of the $9,000,000 taxpayer dollar check that will be going to DIA.
I brought my check book to add to this momentum but was basically told to forget it. I'm serious! "Take it to city council." OK!
How about the Governor? Let's get to work, just not in Jacksonville.
Public, Private, Partnership, still trying to wrap my arms around this.
Anybody feel free to jump in on this but it looked like a loaded agenda and maybe it's just me but they did NOTHING!
The highlight of this DIA Board meeting and let's try and fill in the blanks. Again anyone feel free to jump in on this.
Right from the 3/20/13 agenda
Action/Information Items
Approval of 2/13/13 DIA minutes
One Spark- Elton Davis ( The new guy) Tony A my new river buddy. Maybe I need to write that on my hand for the next meeting had a funny line. "That's Elton Rivas and maybe that's why he's not here." It was an awkward moment and that stuff happens.
Introduction after 60 days Ted Carter
Jorgenson Consulting, Todd Jorgenson
DIA CEO Selection Committee
Jacksonville Lady, Eric Lindstrom
LaVilla Update, Karen Nasrallah
Ord. 2013-89 Council enacted Ted Carter and Paul Crawford
Legislative Update
Ord. 2012-730 New Supervisor of Elections Bldg.
Ord. 2012-657 Bostwick Bldg.
Ord. 2013-94 Mobility Fee Legislation
Committee updates
Hemming Plaza -Jim Bailey, Heart goes out to Jim, He needed the new parking guy for info on another subcommittee that he is working on and will have another reschedule.
CRA Plan committee- Melody Bishop, Heart goes out to Melody as well on some scheduling issues.
The highlight for me was The Jacksonville Lady and her arrival to Downtown and the immediate impact that Capt. Mitch and his crew will have for this city and the region on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our newly created DIA in the USA zone.
On a side note. Is there a new Pier or dock being constructed at the JEA site?
Tides look great next week for kayaking. Special shout out to any FBI RICO interns that are in town during our corruption tour. If you have your fishing license that is a plus. We'll take it under the brand new No fishing signs that was never before Waterways. Hey better yet we can take it over to the JEA site and we can call it the undercover paddle.
Also open to anyone else that wants to participate in what is a Public, Private, Partnership.
Who's next?
Some other details I remember off the top of my head:
1. Todd Jorgenson mentioned that they expect the new DIA CEO would be hired by June 2013.
2. Karen Nasrallah also mentioned that there was a lot of interest from the private sector for the LaVilla RFP.
3. Jim Bailey mentioned possibly using the $9 million to tear down the old courthouse but it didn't appear that the majority of the other board members shared that same position at this point.
Quote3. Jim Bailey mentioned possibly using the $9 million to tear down the old courthouse but it didn't appear that the majority of the other board members shared that same position at this point.
Good God, what an awful use for that money...
How about taking $500k of that for a matching grant program for business incubation and get storefronts filled at street level?!?! That would have an IMMEDIATE impact on downtown.
I cannot support any more 'addition by subtraction' policies. We've had three decades of that. It doesn't work. It's time we move on.
QuoteKaren Nasrallah also mentioned that there was a lot of interest from the private sector for the LaVilla RFP.
Why this is shocking to some is beyond me. Those two thoroughfares have great traffic counts and those particular parcels have highway access and visibility.
The key would be that anything that goes there must be context sensitive to the urban environment they are in so that the development contributes to the walkable characteristics (or current lack thereof) of downtown... that means no suburban layouts.
Quote from: fieldafm on March 22, 2013, 08:50:30 AM
Quote3. Jim Bailey mentioned possibly using the $9 million to tear down the old courthouse but it didn't appear that the majority of the other board members shared that same position at this point.
Good God, what an awful use for that money...
How about taking $500k of that for a matching grant program for business incubation and get storefronts filled at street level?!?! That would have an IMMEDIATE impact on downtown.
I cannot support any more 'addition by subtraction' policies. We've had three decades of that. It doesn't work. It's time we move on.
I definitely agree. Luckily, I don't believe burning millions for demolishing a building that size will gather much support. There's a lot of low budget low hanging fruit that can be easily picked off that actually immediately leads to feet on the street. Putting another hole in the urban grid and sodding it over doesn't achieve that.
QuoteQuoteKaren Nasrallah also mentioned that there was a lot of interest from the private sector for the LaVilla RFP.
Why this is shocking to some is beyond me. Those two thoroughfares have great traffic counts and those particular parcels have highway access and visibility. The key would be that anything that goes there must be context sensitive to the urban environment they are in so that the development contributes to the walkable characteristics (or current lack thereof) of downtown... that means no suburban layouts.
Yeah, I thought it was pretty crazy to even consider allowing SOE to think about building a warehouse on that property. Out of all the city-owned vacant parcels in LaVilla, it's the one that makes sense for market rate commercial. In the last few years, we've seen 7-Eleven, McDonalds, Winn-Dixie, Burger King, Goodyear, etc. either build from scratch or renovate along State & Union without asking for public help. Toss in the facts that the city's parcel is only a block or so east of a full I-95 interchange, this is dirty with nothing on it (excluding Sax) and it should be a no-brainer.
If they consider that horrible Sax Seafood building as a possible tear down, you could land something like a CVS or Walgreens pretty easy. The same goes for chains that litter the suburban arterials such as Steak & Shake, Denny's, Dunkin Donuts, Krystal, Waffle House, etc. because despite being all over Jax, the core is the one spot where most don't have a presence, but demographics still meet their site selection criteria. The site also works for something like an Aldi, which is rapidly expanding across Florida but still has no Jacksonville presence. Given the trend towards infill apartment development, you could probably get away with a mixed use project as well, although it would be a little more difficult to pull off.
As you mention, the key here is to make sure whatever proposed is designed to fit into a pedestrian scale setting that can also be a stimulant for additional infill for the properties to the south and east. What really burns me is if we could modify our zoning regulations, at least within the urban core, site design would not even be an issue. It would be a given that your project would be pedestrian scale and attempting to do anything contrary to the established surrounding urban context would require a more strenuous approval process on the developer's part.
If it were me and I had the cash, this would be a pretty easy RFP to respond to and throw together. I'd probably pay for the land, develop a plan that parcels it out to the types of places mentioned above, but with a site development plan and guidelines that ensures the infill seamlessly fits within the neighborhood's historic pedestrian scale context (you have the freaking Ritz Theatre across the street for crying out loud), making it an anchor to attract more infill to LaVilla and section of DT. Given the expansion mode of some of these chains, you could probably get something like this sold, under construction and done by this time next year.
Next DIA sub committee meeting two days out Thurs. 3/28/13, 2 pm City Hall 1st floor. Formulation of a project list for city council. RICO updates too.
8 hours out from the next DIA in the USA meeting. Anyone going?
Did anyone go? Someone talked about huge announcements of the USS Adams still coming to Downtown. Maybe slightly mentioned.
So when is the next full DIA Board meeting?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
8 hours out from another DIA in the USA meeting that will have the DOWNTOWN EXPERIENCE as the number one issue for this meeting. The last committee meeting was on the Environment and Downtown Redevelopment and as we all know if you were there it had my new river buddy Tony A and fellow DIA Board member Barakat having one other most lively engaging discussions on what to do with this $9,000,000 that you could have watched. Pay per view stuff if you ask me.
Does everyone remember the first DIA Board meeting with Carla Miller and Cindy Laquidara and the discussion of Ethics? Should the DIA offer a resolution of support that text messaging should be part on the new Sunshine legislation? I'd say yes. The Public Trust has just been totally destroyed in this community. This new DIA has the moral compass opportunity to show the state that the Public Corruption that has been allowed to run unchecked for years is over. Pick and choose the winners and losers.
The DOWNTOWN EXPERIENCE - I can't wait to talk about it with our new DIA today. Community First Sat. Tides look good in the AM. 2009-442 Artificial Reef Trust Fund. Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting 5 days out. Is there anyone. I mean anyone that would write a single buck to this TRUST fund and I will deliver it to the full meeting of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission on your behalf. Special shout out to FBI RICO interns. Also hoping for expanded Happy Hour announcements. What a great way to end a meeting.
I am Downtown and why you aren't.
I just had a super long post about this meeting and lost it for some reason. Don't want to write everything over but when you are doing the Community First event today look at the busted up dock behind the Times Union Center next to the river.
The Downtown Experience and we will be showcasing to the world One Spark.
It was a positive meeting.
The Adams will be a great addition to our city, I would hope someone has an eye on the USS jacksonville too. I believe she is deactivated in the Pacific fleet sub base, Submarine Squadron 1 (COMSUBRON One). Also Huckin's Yacht of Jacksonville is rightfully the home of the PT boat. Frank Huckin's took his design to Washington in 1940 at a time the Navy was having a devil of a time trying to create a small fast attack boat. His easy plaining 'Quadraconic Hull' design became the standard for Navy boats from 1940-mid-1970's. Huckin's never got so much as a 'thank you,' from the Navy, though many boats were built by other companies on his concepts. Yet we don't have a shred of an artifact or museum for Jacksonville's unique contribution to WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Would it not be very cool to have a PT Boat downtown?
Quote from: Ocklawaha on April 06, 2013, 02:16:32 PM
The Adams will be a great addition to our city, I would hope someone has an eye on the USS jacksonville too. I believe she is deactivated in the Pacific fleet sub base, Submarine Squadron 1 (COMSUBRON One). Also Huckin's Yacht of Jacksonville is rightfully the home of the PT boat. Frank Huckin's took his design to Washington in 1940 at a time the Navy was having a devil of a time trying to create a small fast attack boat. His easy plaining 'Quadraconic Hull' design became the standard for Navy boats from 1940-mid-1970's. Huckin's never got so much as a 'thank you,' from the Navy, though many boats were built by other companies on his concepts. Yet we don't have a shred of an artifact or museum for Jacksonville's unique contribution to WWII, Korea and Vietnam. Would it not be very cool to have a PT Boat downtown?
We could have several ships combined to be a large maritime museum, like the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, Penn's Landing in Philadelphia or even the Intrepid Air, Sea and Space Museum in lower Manhattan.
DIA in the USA board meeting today at 2 first floor city hall. Took advantage of the Happy Hour announcements at the last meeting.
Some positives and some negatives. I wrote a bunch about a recent DIA meeting and lost it or it was deleted. Saw Redman and again the song of excuses as it relates to Public Access and Economic opportunity on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative should have everyone immediately joining the RFA. Recreational Fishing Alliance. Anyone want to donate to 2009-442? Artificial Reef Trust Fund. 6 permitted reefs south of the Fuller Warren. Remember- Each launch is a spark.
After the meeting it was time to join in the celebration of One Spark. Walked through Hemming Plaza talking with my new river buddy and DIA Board member Tony A. We ran into Lisa Rinamon and Jimmy Orth both with the St. Johns Riverkeeper. Chatted about a bunch of topics and issues but what about the outrage and the dismissal of Vince Seibold for sharing a concern during a Public meeting.
^You must have accidentally lost it. No one deleted anything.
I will say that my DIA post may have been lost by me or it could have been deleted. But I had some deleted for sure on other threads and someone tell me that they had seen it and it's gone. I love MJ. But in all fairness do a gut check photo spread of all the business and housing stock that has been lost outside of this new DIA zone. Specifically north of Main St. And the MLK beltway. I know you are about the Urban Core and transit. I'm warming to rail. This community still has some serious problems. I still hope that the opportunity for open communication on this forum doesn't diminish. I'm glad I haven't been banned.
^We're well aware of the continued demolitions occurring outside of DT. I'm personally, probably not going to be able to invest the time to track every single one but I have been compiling imagery of demolitions we've captured since 2004 (going back to the Urban Planet and MetJax days). I plan to eventually run them as a photo thread. All I can say, is it's depressing.
Positive DIA meeting in less then 2 hours 1st floor city hall. 10am
Two days out anyone going? 5/15/13 2 pm first floor city hall.
Will there be new Insurance regs for Downtown events?
Will the new floating dock at Shipyards be immediately opened up?
Will the DIA offer a resolution of support for a Boat Ramp Master Plan for the 2013 FIND grant application package?
Will a decision be announced on Hemming Plaza?
Will there be an update on the 30 day RFI, RFP on Shipyards?
Will there be an update on Jazz Fest?
Lots of Positive things.
When is the next meeting on anything DIA? Anyone.
Today at 4 City Hall 1st floor open to the Public is the Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA. Our new 20 square mile zone where decisions are made and opportunity denied. Anyone going? Public, Private, Partnership.
Downtown Experience 1 hour out. Anyone going? Write a check for a buck to 2009-442 and I'll treat you to a round at the Wyndam and play you in a game of pool. Any takers?
DIA board meeting today. Anyone going? Will Mr. Wallace be there?
Did anyone go to the 6/19/13 DIA Board meeting? I was there. Made me have flashbacks to the recent Backroom deal stuff that is happening in Waterways with our FEDERAL river. Are we that LOST? Will the city council FIND FIND Tues. night and approve 2013-380?
So right after the Hemming Plaza RFP update by Kelley Boree next on the agenda is the DIA CEO Aundra Wallace update by Oliver Barakat. This will be taken up on 6/26/13 at 5pm at a still to be announced location.
OK are you ready for this. Is this now going to be the trend. On the 6/19/13 agenda is the names of the Board members. Good. But Staff has been left off.
All one has to do is just go back to the June 6, 2013 DIA agenda meeting and not only are the Board members listed but staff is there as well. That is important.
So at the 6/19/13 meeting staff has been left off the agenda. So just going by the last agenda Jack Shad, Public Parking Officer was a No Show. Everyone else was there. maybe not the whole meeting but they were there.
So back to Action/Information item 3 on the agenda Aundra Wallace. During discussion and not on the agenda was the recognition that a new business is being created by former Chamber President Lee and that the business specializes in Corporate relocations. Board member Allegretti introduced the potential service that may assist Mr. Wallace at this time. The average relocation cost is about $100,000 and maybe it was just me but Ted Carter was joking or alluding to the relocation service and maybe this is something that can still be expanded on. I'm sure the community will hear more about this in 3 more days.
There are no handouts for the Public to even have a clue as to what is really going on. During Public Comments I shared with everyone the concerns about Public Access and economic opportunity to the river in this new 20 square mile zone. Also the upcoming Secret FIND list.
Anyone want to donate a buck to 2009-442? I'll deliver it personally on your behalf at city council or Waterways.
Will have more later.
Be concerned. We are so LOST.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
DIA special Board meeting today. Anyone going? It's at 5 but have yet to say where. The new leadership for Downtown.
A new Authority
Embrace it
Or
It will Embrace us
Just ask Springfield.
Good article about Oliver Barakat's ideas as the Incoming DIA Chair. I'm a fan.
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=539850
It all sounds good, although residential should've been a priority. That's where it all starts.
Quote from: stephendare on June 26, 2013, 04:41:20 PM
Quote from: CityLife on June 26, 2013, 04:28:23 PM
Good article about Oliver Barakat's ideas as the Incoming DIA Chair. I'm a fan.
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=539850
Its hard not to be a fan of Oliver. He's quite simply one of the brightest fellows that the city has on its bench.
Indeed.
Looks like the DIA Board approved Wallace's salary of $178k with a $6k moving package. Start date of August 19th.
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=539857
New legislation 2013-373 just had a Public Hearing on 6/25/13. Will be in R,F,RCD is this similar to 2010-856 the transient vendor ban? Is city leased property exempt? Is the DIA zone exempt? Why is this being pushed now?
The legislation amends chapter 250 Misc. Bus. Regs to add Sec. 250.124 for a Penalty to a Property owner who allows a person onto his or her Property to vend without proper permit.
Can someone's property be ultimately seized?
Mr. Wallace, we need to kayak Downtown before 2025.
One day out. Noticed DIA meeting. 10 am first floor city hall. Topic-Downtown
Governor Scott- We are so LOST.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace us.
Anyone going?
5 hours out. noticed meeting. Anyone going?
Will Aundra Wallace follow in the steps of Don Shea and John Culbreath?
I feel sorry for Wallace already.
Conditions are improving. Anyone interested in Kayaking, fishing, swimming?
I am Downtown and why you aren't
The DIA is only allocated $200,000 in Mayor Brown's proposed budget. Basically just enough to pay Wallace's salary.
QuoteThe Downtown Investment Authority could be tackling revitalization without any money to fund projects or incentive packages, under Mayor Alvin Brown's current budget.
The DIA's budget for fiscal 2013-14 is $200,000, to pay for the salary and benefits of incoming CEO Aundra Wallace, mayoral spokesman David DeCamp said Tuesday.
Brown presented his budget to city council on Monday morning.
"That's it at this point," DeCamp said, pointing out that the current budget is based on the assumption that the city council will not approve pension reform.
The $9 million Brown allotted for Downtown, gleaned from refinancing the city's bond debt, is still appropriated for Downtown, DeCamp said.
City councilman Robin Lumb has already called for the council to "to go back and revisit the money we set aside for the DIA," reports the Florida-Times Union.
DIA Chairman Oliver Barakat, a senior vice president with CBRE Group Inc., said not funding the authority would be "a huge step backward in our community's efforts to revitalize Downtown."
The DIA's budget is not separated from the Office of Economic Development's. The total OED budget shown is $3.9 million, a 4 percent cut from the previous year.
When it was created, the DIA was to have a budget of $2 million, a far cry from the $29 million the Jacksonville Civic Council originally called for in 2011
http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2013/07/16/no-money-for-downtown-investment.html
It would suck if the DIA isn't adequately funded (what's the point of having them if you don't fund them?). However, there's success that can still be had without having millions to play with. We can start with modifying policy, better utilizing existing assets, coordinating with other agencies, etc. and figuring out new creative funding strategies and resources that could easily be at our disposal.
The noticed DIA meeting 7/16/13 1st floor of city hall had just 5 people for the entire meeting. Paul Crawford was sitting outside before the start and never sat in. From my perspective these noticed meetings by Oliver Barakat with fellow DIA Board members is to get feedback in how the group will be moving forward. Props to chairman Barakat for doing this. This particular meeting had Tony Allegretti who is also the chair of the DIA Downtown Experience subcommittee and that is why I chose this one to be a part of.
Mr. Barakat wants to develop Benchmarks. And may even hold at some time a Benchmark workshop.
Another item was an Incentive policy and the last one was done by JEDC in 2006 that applied to the whole county. Refine the focus. Residential, history.
Who wants to be a 501-C? I'm serious. They will be handing out money. Maybe not throwing it out the windows but stick your hand out.
Mr. Barakat touched on a few more items but what I want to add to his list which he described as "Catalytic city owned assets."
And that would be the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, Berkman floating dock compromise misrepresented by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Which was then highlighted by a follow up by Jacksonville Waterways Commission member and city council member Lori Boyer with an OGC opinion on Catherine street next to Shipyards.
Chairman Barakat didn't have to take Public Comment but did allow me to share some comments. Thank you for that opportunity.
I spoke about the Celebrity plunge in the St. Johns River and mentioned Dave Roman with the administration and Tony with the DIA and how the RAM dock is only open when RAM is open.
Mentioned that the commissioners of FIND we're meeting in Nassau county and that I planned on attending and give them an update. After the meeting I walked with Tony Allegretti and shared some more concerns about the floating dock at Berkman, the RAM dock and I'm following up with his directions to me.
Also mentioned an active piece of legislation 2013-384 and another one year (License ,Lease) agreement. It is outside of the DIA zone so he can't do anything. Councilman Redman, Scott Wilson, is 384 an emergency? Defer the legislation and send it to Waterways. This is next to Hogans Creek.
Anyone want to make a donation to 2009-442?
A new Authority
Embrace it
Or
It will embrace us
DIA Board meeting less than 12 hours out. Anyone going? Packed agenda. An RFP for a parking garage lease. Parking rate adjustments. 5pm 1st floor city hall. presentations and legislation. 2013-408, 2013-297, 2012-657, 2012-732, 2013-0226 along with other announcements before the new guy from Detroit Aundra Wallace takes control.
Quote from: CityLife on July 16, 2013, 03:22:17 PM
The DIA is only allocated $200,000 in Mayor Brown's proposed budget. Basically just enough to pay Wallace's salary.
QuoteThe Downtown Investment Authority could be tackling revitalization without any money to fund projects or incentive packages, under Mayor Alvin Brown's current budget.
The DIA's budget for fiscal 2013-14 is $200,000, to pay for the salary and benefits of incoming CEO Aundra Wallace, mayoral spokesman David DeCamp said Tuesday.
Brown presented his budget to city council on Monday morning.
"That's it at this point," DeCamp said, pointing out that the current budget is based on the assumption that the city council will not approve pension reform.
The $9 million Brown allotted for Downtown, gleaned from refinancing the city's bond debt, is still appropriated for Downtown, DeCamp said.
City councilman Robin Lumb has already called for the council to "to go back and revisit the money we set aside for the DIA," reports the Florida-Times Union.
DIA Chairman Oliver Barakat, a senior vice president with CBRE Group Inc., said not funding the authority would be "a huge step backward in our community's efforts to revitalize Downtown."
The DIA's budget is not separated from the Office of Economic Development's. The total OED budget shown is $3.9 million, a 4 percent cut from the previous year.
When it was created, the DIA was to have a budget of $2 million, a far cry from the $29 million the Jacksonville Civic Council originally called for in 2011
http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/news/2013/07/16/no-money-for-downtown-investment.html
From $29mm (admittedly not realistic, but still) to $2 mm to $200,000. From a policy standpoint, there is much that can be done, but beyond that, what is Mr. Wallace to do with no staff and no money? If a cheerleader is needed, DVI already fills that role.
one more reason Council basically ignored the Mayor's wishes and last night approved a tentative 15% (that's the max. allowed) property tax increase
Just an hour out. Anyone going?
What a meeting! I swear I'm going to bring in my own timer when it comes to Public comment.
Stick your hand out and get on the list. That was the highlight of the meeting.
I did share with the Board that I attended the meeting of the commissioners of FIND in Fernandina on 7/19/13 and made them all aware of the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman floating dock compromise misrepresented by OGC to Waterways during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Don't kid yourself this is some super duper back room criminal stuff. Who gets the FBI RICO award for the Waterways. This is our ad valorem property taxes!
Right now I don't blame DIA. They are now fully aware of the issue and this is before the new guy Aundra Wallace arrives and hits the ground running Aug. 19
More later. There is $5,300,000 in the Historic Preservation Trust Fund
Anyone want to make a donation to 2009-442 The Artificial Reef Trust Fund?
A new Authority
Embrace It
or
It will Embrace us
This was councilman Love along with his assistant Kevin Kuzel's idea and what an absolutely brilliant compromise. And then Super props to Councilwoman Boyer a couple of months later with another OGC opinion.
QuoteThe Downtown Investment Authority has authorized the city to enter negotiations on six Downtown Jacksonville projects — a move that one board member decried as stripping the DIA of its independence.
Ted Carter, director of the Office of Economic Development, and Paul Crawford, deputy director, sought authorization from the DIA to enter into "comprehensive review and negotiation" on the Laura Street Trio, the Sax Seafood site in LaVilla, the Shipyards, the Bostwick Building, the Old Main Library and a storefront beautification program.
"The important thing here is the frame for council that there are specific projects," Carter said, referencing some city council members' requests for a plan for the $9 million Mayor Alvin Brown pegged for Downtown.
DIA vice chairman Jim Bailey said authorizing the OED to negotiate on the board's behalf sent a "terrible message."
Quote"Some of these developers can't wait too much longer," Barakat said. "A lot of the deals have momentum."
The two projects furthest along are the trio and Sax site, Crawford said.
A mixed-use development that would emphasize residential development, with ground floor retail and job creation has been proposed for the Laura Street Trio and Barnett Bank Building, according to the proposal the OED presented to the DIA.
The proposal was to be presented April 17, at a private event on the eve of One Spark, but developer Steve Atkins canceled that announcement and has remained silent about his plans.
A Milwaukee group is negotiating on the Sax Seafood site, Carter told the DIA, but did not elaborate on the proposal.
The Business Journal filed public records requests Wednesday evening for both proposals, which city spokeswoman Aleizha Batson said would be fulfilled Thursday morning.
http://www.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/morning-edition/2013/07/jacksonville-to-enter-negotiations-on.html?page=all
Quote from: Noone on November 14, 2012, 03:51:53 AM
It was a brief meeting. I counted maybe 16 people.
Paul Crawford and Jason Gabriel were busy with all kinds of legislative options.
The guy who should have been at the meeting wasn't at the meeting but should be at the meeting today but the legislation discussed at the meeting was introduced at the Jacksonville city council meeting last night. The meeting today if the guy who didn't make the meeting for the last meeting is in fact at today's meeting and the Board even had one concern for the fast tracked meeting and wanted to offer an amendment for a future meeting will now have to make a special effort at the Committee meetings to address the concerns if the guy even shows up at today's meeting. According to the agenda the guy who everyone was waiting to hear from is not a guaranty for the meeting. So the meeting today may move forward from never even hearing from the guy who never even made one meeting.
The new guy Ted Carter. Did the DIA request that he appear before the DIA Board before city council confirmation? Just curious and asking anyone for clarification.
The 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting had me saying to myself after the meeting as I'm driving over a bridge and gazing below at our St. Johns River an American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA zone a new branding and marketing slogan.
DIA- Downtown Is Adrift
Ron Barton, Don Shea, John Culbreath, What do they have in common? There gone. Mr. Aundra Wallace is just 23 days out before initially starting as the CEO of the Downtown Investment Authority. So what does the DIA Board do?
DIA- Detroit is Adrift
Congratulations to board member Jim Bailey that had the courage to vote no on this last minute power play by OED to circumvent the true spirit of the Independence that is being sought by the DIA. The Jacksonville city council should reject the list.
Let's start with the key no shows. From the Board Tony Allegretti, Robert Clements, Supporting staff David DeCamp, Public Information Officer, DIA Council liaison, Lori Boyer, Jax city council member Dist. 5
The meeting was hours and lots of information and anyone feel free to jump in here and set me straight if I've got any of this wrong. But you talk about stick your hand out and get in line. WOW!
Will post more later. Have to go. In the meantime anyone want to consider donating a buck to 2009-442?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace us.
21 days out from the start of the new CEO guy Aundra Wallace (I feel sorry for him already) and just wanted to continue with observations from the 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting that had the OED get a vote from the DIA to shoot the entire potential wad of taxpayer dollars immediately. Is this an emergency? Are the 20 new no bid voted on as an emergency without Public comment Jacksonville city council chairs now in chambers?
Palms Fish Camp- A million bucks and they never even opened up the door.
Shipyards III
Active legislation
2013-373-Regulatory Compliance Coordinator
2013-377-PS4
2013-384-Hogans Creek
2013-408-USS Adams
When I arrived there was discussion on the minutes. Chairman Barakat was looking for more detail in his minutes with individual members that he met with. I attended the one with Board member Tony Allegretti. Which I believe was 7/16/13 10 am
But let's get back to the most important document of the meeting and that was at the very end of the meeting. Just remember that there aren't any handouts on the table for the PUBLIC. This guarded handout was given by Paul Crawford to the board. Mike Langton who was in the house went up to Michelle and asked for a copy (5 pages). Others followed then Paul is just handing the stack to her then all of a sudden Shazam it's back to a publicly informed meeting.
The Authorization document was edited and modified by Board member Mike Saylor who took the lead and immediately cut out the first 3 paragraphs. I welcome any corrections or additions because I didn't catch all the changes. Probably because most people there didn't have a chance to read it.
So Mr. Bailey is right in that OED with this Authorization to negotiate and engage does neuter the DIA before the new guy gets here. (I feel sorry for him already) So OED can take the $9,000,000 and $5,300,000 and combine the two funding sources to ensure the completion of one or more of these projects.
It's too bad that other MJ members and posters weren't there to witness this stuff. Just crushing. Scott Wilson you were there right next to me at the one Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting and with Don Redman now the chair of Waterways I hope that we can immediately work with Governor Scott on the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman dock compromise misrepresented by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process. It is in the DIA zone and Mr. Wallace this could be an immediate project that we can all work on immediately.
This was a long meeting and again I welcome any correction to these observations and all you have to do is pull the tape. But this power play by OED (JEDC) on the new DIA have the people of Jacksonville going YEAH!!!!
Help me. With this one and if I'm wrong with my observation then please correct me. Mike Langton at a Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting who was not on the agenda was recognized and with a serious look asked for $25,000 for 20 businesses for help.
Fast forward to the 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting and he is all smiles hi fives closes and did the $25,000 request just go to $50,000? Again just an observation. But is that accurate?
The Bostwick guys were there and they will be building a restaurant and looking to employ about a hundred people. They weren't on the taxpayer handout list. And in fact Board member Mike Saylor asked them "aren't you prepared to move forward on this project on your own?" "That's what's been reported." Didn't fully understand the response back but lets just say they are on the official handout list. That language was amended in the Authorization to Negotiate and Engage on various Downtown Projects document.
Tides are looking good. Anyone want to kayak, fish, swim in our highly restricted DIA zone?
I am Downtown and why you aren't.
Prior to Noone arriving at the above mentioned meeting there was talk Aundra Wallace was just playing Jacksonville to get a better deal from Atlanta.
You must remember Wallace has not signed ANY contract to be employed by Jacksonville even if Paul Crawford said he was in contact with him "like every 4 hours".
It appears to me the DIA has no back bone when it comes to dealing with the OED, better yet it is my impression the DIA is being led by the nose by the OED.
When the OED said they NEEDED a decision thus a vote THAT night, regardless of just receiving the information, to further negotiations for developments I was upset. THEN when Carter said "this is just preliminary information, once you vote yes we can use the $9 million we will THEN bring you details", I was outright angry!
Yes folks...vote for it first, then later read what you voted for.
The OED was pushing the DIA to dedicate their money "so City Council wont get their hands on it" faulty reasoning since CC already voted to increase millage rates to cover the Budget as needed.
BUT voted for it, they did! Without regard as to how many times the OED when JEDC failed this community in the loss of probably over $100 million to tax payers over the years.
The OED is currently in the process of negotiating contracts for development of OUR riverfront/shipyard property, all of this restricted information until it hits the agenda. This development is going on without the OED ever trying to get private money outside of Shad Khan.
All of the development and all of the money through out this country and the OED is dedicating our riverfront development to a man that already has this community over a barrel, for every whim.
Now I know for a fact there was interest from other sources besides Shad Khan but the OED never looked into it. They only ever put out one Request for Information (RFI) not really for out side sources of private money but to cover themselves to say "they advertised the property" while already negotiating with Khan.
It is my idea the Mayor while on his flight and dinner cruise provided by Shad Khan to Miami already dedicated this community to what ever Khan wanted, this includes development of riverfront/shipyard property, $63 million scoreboard and who knows whatever else.
City Council will of course approve anything the OED brings before them regardless of their failures especially when it comes to the shipyards and the community certainly has no say what happens in their own city when it comes to Shad Khan for mere threat of him pulling the Jags out of the city. If anyone thinks the people of the community are held over a barrel when it comes to the Jags can you imagine what we will be beholden to when he has control of the riverfront?
No one can tell me Shad Khan offered the greatest deal possible for the city of Jacksonville because there are too many other options out there for private investment and I know it a fact the OED never tried to take it further, setting up this city and her people for a world of hurt.
All of this.... "because they know better then we what is best for us"
Just like always.
Two days out. DIA subcommittee meeting of the Downtown Experience. Has anyone seen an agenda? 2013-373 - Regulatory Compliance Coordinator, Anyone?
Aug.19 the debut of Aundra Wallace to Downtown Jacksonville.
14 days out to the next Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting and the return of Don Redman as chair of Waterways.
Anyone going to either?
Anybody care?
Nine hours out. Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA 1st floor city hall. Will there be Happy Hour announcements? Has anyone seen an agenda. River Ruckus- How much was raised for the St. Johns Riverkeeper? Who is on the subcommittee?
Will anyone be at this meeting? Given that at the last DIA board meeting the DIA board at the very end of the meeting voted and allowed the OED document "Authorization to Negotiate and Engage on various Downtown Projects" to move forward just 17 days before the new guy Aundra Wallace our new CEO of our DIA takes charge. (I feel sorry for him already)
Time sensitive projects.
How about the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman floating dock compromise misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Funding - Tell the Palms Fish Camp guys that they are getting $900,000 instead of a million bucks for never even opening up the door. How do you sign up for this stuff?
2013-373
2013-384
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Two hours out.
Mike Field is on the agenda. Go get'm. Economic freedom!
Why would developing the shipyard be such a bad idea? Mr.Khan seems to be the only person around with any vision as well as the money to fund any projects. I just moved here from Chicago and when I was downtown and saw the empty uncompleted Berkman Towers building I actually thought it was a joke. Is this town ever grow up? I know a lot of people I talk to blame First Baptist Church but I don't buy that . What is the problem?
Quote from: Stephen on August 02, 2013, 02:02:27 PM
Why would developing the shipyard be such a bad idea? Mr.Khan seems to be the only person around with any vision as well as the money to fund any projects. I just moved here from Chicago and when I was downtown and saw the empty uncompleted Berkman Towers building I actually thought it was a joke. Is this town ever grow up? I know a lot of people I talk to blame First Baptist Church but I don't buy that . What is the problem?
Stephen, this is a discussion that has been had a number of times on the forum. Use the search bar and you can find some of the specifics that impact the development of the Shipyards project. I haven't heard anyone oppose the redevelopment of the Shipyards parcel. That fact that it hasn't gone beyond where it currently is has to do with a number of issues including politics (which got us where we are) and funding sources (which is what makes the interest of Khan something to pay attention to).
Quote from: Stephen on August 02, 2013, 02:02:27 PM
Why would developing the shipyard be such a bad idea? What is the problem?
The problem is corruption and self serving special interests.
Developing the Shipyards is a great idea and it is a joke and the history of the failed attempts again lies in out of control corruption and legislative maneuvering.
Stephen, welcome to the forum and let's get right to it and how we can be ALL IN. Provide a spark. Make It Happen. It all requires legislation.
The 8/2/13 Downtown Experience Committee meeting of the DIA had three items on the agenda and one not on the agenda.
1. Art in Public Places- Christie Holechek
2. Downtown Council- Bonnie Arnold
3. Pop up Retail - Mike Field
Not on the agenda- Mike White- Jaxtoberfest
Tony Allegretti is the chair
Don Harris- Committee member
Mike Saylor-Committee member
Melody Bishop- DIA Board member who took the time to attend.
Tony ran a great meeting. In the future I have yet to hear even one announcement of how much money was raised for this group or that group. In fairness I believe Christie Holechek and Art in Public Places mentioned $61,000 was privately raised for Art.
I welcome any additions or corrections to my observations. On Pop Up Retail by Mike Field the highlight for me was the recognition by our Parking guy Jack Shad that in a prior life he participated in a Pop Up Retail Deal and made $10,000 in shoe sales over a weekend?
Was Imelda Marcus in town that weekend? I just need some new sneaks.
I did write 2013-373 on my speaker card and does anyone have a clue what this legislation will do? So much more at this meeting.
2013-384-An amendment for 24/7 access to Hogans Creek?
But Stephen back to Berkman, I made the entire DIA Board aware of an issue in Jan when it happened and I again shared the concern with the Downtown Experience Committee at this meeting because I made the Commissioners of FIND aware of the issue last month in Nassau county. The issue that I refer to is what I call the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman Floating dock compromise (SHIPYARDS III) misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting during the 2013 FIND grant application process. This is our ad valorem property taxes. This was fraud. SHIPYARDS III. The concern is that this is happening in our new DIA zone.
The new guy Aundra Wallace ( I feel sorry for him already) starts in 14 days
Ron Barton
Don Shea
John Culbreath
All gone.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
it will Embrace Us
Just a few more observations from the 8/2/13 Downtown Experience Committee meeting and I shared with the members that just the day before I showed someone the Mayor Brown kayak launch at Hogans Creek and while we were walking to the creek there are some homeless camps right there and we said hello and just looked at the empty creek. It was a low outgoing tide. And for the demolition group that 2nd house that was there next to the beautiful 2story concrete duplex is gone. it's a beautiful area. Add that to 601 East Church St.
Another announcement from the meeting and it was from a speaker during Public Comment and it had to do with a future potential event with the TU. Cars and Coffee at the TU. Sounds cool.
Again there was applause for Mike Field and numerous accolades by Tony Allegretti in what this man continues to do for this community. Every Downtown Committee meeting are announcements for events that are raising money for all these organizations. Mike feel free to jump in here at anytime but how much was presented to Second Harvest Food Bank after the last food truck rally? Someone mentions food trucks and everyone is looking and saying to themselves you need to talk to that man. This is positive news that should be everywhere. Maybe it is and I've just missed it.
Anyone want to donate a buck to 2009-442 the artificial reef trust fund? Waterways 8/14/13 meeting just 8 days out. The DIA needs to find out what going on with FDOT, the Overland Bridge project and all the material that could be immediately used for the 6 permitted reefs south of the Fuller Warren Bridge. A JTA guy was there at the meeting to. What a joke if this opportunity is missed.
DIA committee workshop meeting on the CRA today at 3pm 1st floor city hall.
^Did anyone go? Was in touch with councilman Jim Love's office about the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman floating dock compromise (SHIPYARDS III) that was misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Very positive.
This is a DIA issue. 11 Days prior to the start of the new DIA guy Aundra Wallace (I feel sorry for the man already).
5 days to Waterways and haven't heard back from my elected legislative representative. Anyone want to donate a buck to 2009-442 The Artificial Reef Trust Fund? I'll deliver it personally on your behalf. Immediate economic development with 6 artificial reefs south of the Fuller Warren bridge in our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative just outside our new highly restricted DIA zone.
2013-373- Regulatory Compliance Coordinator?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
CRA of the DIA is holding a workshop in two days 3 pm first floor city hall. Anyone going? How will our river be addressed? The entire Board is aware of the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman Floating dock compromise (SHIPYARDS III) misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process.
5 days prior to the start of our new CEO Aundra Wallace (I feel sorry for the man already)
Ron Barton
Don Shea
John Culbreath
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Quote from: Noone on July 29, 2013, 12:43:03 AM
But let's get back to the most important document of the meeting and that was at the very end of the meeting. Just remember that there aren't any handouts on the table for the PUBLIC. This guarded handout was given by Paul Crawford to the board. Mike Langton who was in the house went up to Michelle and asked for a copy (5 pages). Others followed then Paul is just handing the stack to her then all of a sudden Shazam it's back to a publicly informed meeting.
This was a long meeting and again I welcome any correction to these observations and all you have to do is pull the tape. But this power play by OED (JEDC) on the new DIA have the people of Jacksonville going YEAH!!!!
Help me. With this one and if I'm wrong with my observation then please correct me. Mike Langton at a Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting who was not on the agenda was recognized and with a serious look asked for $25,000 for 20 businesses for help.
Fast forward to the 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting and he is all smiles hi fives closes and did the $25,000 request just go to $50,000? Again just an observation. But is that accurate?
The Bostwick guys were there and they will be building a restaurant and looking to employ about a hundred people. They weren't on the taxpayer handout list. And in fact Board member Mike Saylor asked them "aren't you prepared to move forward on this project on your own?" "That's what's been reported." Didn't fully understand the response back but lets just say they are on the official handout list. That language was amended in the Authorization to Negotiate and Engage on various Downtown Projects document.
Our DIA/CRA in the USA is just one day out. Next meeting 8/14/13 Anyone going?
A Downtown development announcement by a developer if I buy this for $450,000 and you don't immediately give me $250,000 of our refinanced Shipyards money $9,000,000 then I'm never ever going to buy another Downtown property again. This has to be positive.
At a Downtown Experience Committee meeting sitting next to Scott Wilson and a picture of the River City Challenge during home movies I asked before the official RFI, RFP of Shipyards that if anyone wanted to use the existing floating dock at Shipyards for personal or commercial purposes could you. I was told by Tony Allegretti and Paul Crawford "NO. NO. NO" Back me up on that one Scott. OK!
How about the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman floating dock compromise (SHIPYARDS III) misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting during the 2013 FIND grant application process.
Hey! FBI RICO guys. You out there? The circumventing of our ad valorem property taxes for immediate and direct personal gain through Boards, Trusts, Foundations in a conspiracy to defraud the People from Public, Private economic opportunity to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted DIA zone. I'm never ever going to promote our River Downtown again.
DIA Board meeting one day out. Anyone going? They have been to say the least sparsely attended.
Looking forward to welcoming Aundra Wallace to Jacksonville.
I may try to make the next meeting. Lately, my work schedule just hasn't aligned with their meeting times.
Just 2 hours out. Anyone going? Has anyone seen an agenda? 5pm 1st floor city hall.
I'm here. Here's some interesting tidbits. DuPont wants incentives for the Haydon Burns project. The Northbank TIF is broke and being subsidized by the general fund. The Southbank TIF will have $1.5 million in October. If the DIA doesn't find a Southbank project by next summer, council can take it. With that in mind, council has already taken this year's Southbank cash.
The 8/21/13 DIA Board meeting for me during Public Comment had me standing up and immediately welcoming Aundra Wallace to Jacksonville and sharing with everyone the front page headlines of the 8/19/13 Metro section of the Times Union and what could be immediate positive benefits for all of us as a community as we promote, preserve, access and celebrate our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our newly created DIA zone. Will we be telling the world to REALLY. "Visit Jacksonville"!
Nice crowd for this meeting then again look at the beginning of this thread when the Mayor started it off. There are many pieces to this moving target that is Downtown development. Pick and choose the winners and losers. Stick your hand out and get in line.
The meeting had chair Barakat jumping around the agenda because there wasn't a quorum to vote. This was noted in the beginning when they couldn't vote on the 7/24/13 DIA meeting minutes. Board member Tony Allegretti wanted to get included
In the minutes and was making the case does a tweet count and then made a comment that someone tweeted back an empty chair. Not sure how that eventually worked out but did get a good chuckle from the crowd. Key no shows for this meeting Kay Harper Williams and Robert Clements.
Chair Barakat created Project assignments for specific projects.
LaVilla - Mr. Harris
Laura St. Trio - Robert Clements - Everbank
Haydon Burns - Paul Perez
Bostwick- Bailey or Barakat not sure just who landed that one but these Board members basically own these and will have some small meetings then report back to the board.
Another item on the agenda was Hemming Plaza and that is a disaster. Dr. Wayne Wood was there to speak to it and there are some real breakdowns on how this was handled. Which is another shining example that should give us all pauses for concern when addressing just the baby steps in achieving a vibrant Downtown.
The highlight for me was the CRA Plan Update by Board Member Melody Bishop. I attended one of her workshops in the beginning and there are a number of Committees that anyone can attend. Previously I was focusing on the Downtown Experience Committee but just wasn't feeling the Love when it comes to accessing our Waterways from Downtown. So many examples. Floating dock at SHIPYARDS III what's up with that?
But going forward the next couple of CRA meetings are HUGE.
Will be identifying
Structure for the Plan
Stakeholders
Goals & Objectives
DIA council Liason, Lori Boyer Dist. 5 was there and was a fantastic contributor on so many issues and is a real asset to the team.
Was Jack Shad there? Didn't notice Ted Carter or David DeCamp. Have an email in to David for info on how to get some more Mayor Brown's kayak adventures tshirts but have yet to hear back from him.
The biggest highlight for me was after the meeting going up and talking with Mr. Wallace and I believe in my heart that we will both see together the opportunities that exist NOW from the Waterways in our new DIA zone for everyone.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
2 hours out. CRA of the DIA 5pm 1st floor city hall. Anyone going? Big Pete's Cash Mob was a super event just 3 hours ago. Good to see a bunch of the MJ'ers in addition to a nice lunch.
DIA meeting today at 3pm 1st floor city hall. Anyone going? Stick your hand out.
DIA meeting just 2 hours out. Anyone going? let's all hope that they all saw the front page of the Florida Times Union. VISIT JACKSONVILLE! The meeting will be about the DOWNTOWN economy.
The 9/3/13 Downtown Economy Committee meeting of the DIA was well attended by committee members and fellow DIA Board members. A very strong showing.
Paul Perez is the chair. And was joined by committee members Rob Clements and Kay Harper. DIA Board members that also were there included, Jim Bailey, Tony Allegretti, Oliver Barakat, CEO Aundra Wallace and Jacksonville city council member Lori Boyer was also there.
A sign in sheet along with an agenda and speaker cards were made available. Just 7 people in the audience. Nobody from a TV station. millions and millions of dollars on the line. We have a vehicle driving to the scene.
The discussion items on the agenda included obtain inventory of the different sources of funds and then to advise/ suggest to the full DIA Board what priorities we choose to incentivize as to development projects.
The Civic Council just announced that we should borrow a billion dollars for the answer to the pension crisis.
The Jacksonville city council is giving back $4,100,000 to the DIA. (Is that correct?)
the DIA can lease and sell property.
The CRA is being created right now. At the meeting it was disclosed that Jim Catlett is now a CRA advisor. He brought to the attention of the committee that Infrastructure Improvements count like equity to give banks and insurance companies comfort in the case that a project doesn't happen. Makes sense to me. Great point. What will we spend the money on?
Langton was mentioned at the meeting and to take $250,000 and sink it all into one project?
Another interesting extraction from the meeting was from the CRA consultants in regard to Public participation as the process moves forward and there have been requests to participate in an anonymous manner. Are you kidding? Let's hope that the DIA says show up and stick your hand out like everyone else.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting just 6 hours out 9:30 am council chambers. Anyone going? Anyone want to donate a buck to 2009-442 The Artificial reef Trust fund?
The Public Trust just crushed.
Another DIA meeting just 8 hours out. Anyone going?
3pm. Ed Ball Bldg. 1st floor. 214 N. Hogan St. Open to the Public.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
One hour out.
Anyone going?
Another DIA event today at 4pm 1st floor city hall. Open to the Public. It's all about Downtown and opening the Silo's. Anyone going?
Next DIA Board meeting just 5 days out. Anyone going?
The stick your hand out list should be ready to go with city council approval the next day with a budget vote.
Remember that OED took over control of the DIA with Board approval and a Pre Aundra Wallace start.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
DIA Board meeting 13 hours out. Anyone going? Will there even be one news station? Will Jack Shad be there? Parking was supposed to be one of the big revenue generators for DIA.
30 minutes out. DIA Board meeting 5pm 1st. Floor city hall. Open to the Public. Anyone going? A meeting after work. How will it be attended? Any TV station to ask anyone about the potential real estate move.
Quote from: Noone on August 22, 2013, 05:25:03 AM
The 8/21/13 DIA Board meeting for me during Public Comment had me standing up and immediately welcoming Aundra Wallace to Jacksonville and sharing with everyone the front page headlines of the 8/19/13 Metro section of the Times Union and what could be immediate positive benefits for all of us as a community as we promote, preserve, access and celebrate our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our newly created DIA zone. Will we be telling the world to REALLY. "Visit Jacksonville".
Chair Barakat created Project assignments for specific projects.
LaVilla - Mr. Harris
Laura St. Trio - Robert Clements - Everbank
Haydon Burns - Paul Perez
Bostwick- Bailey or Barakat not sure just who landed that one but these Board members basically own these and will have some small meetings then report back to the board.
DIA council Liason, Lori Boyer Dist. 5 was there and was a fantastic contributor on so many issues and is a real asset to the team.
The biggest highlight for me was after the meeting going up and talking with Mr. Wallace and I believe in my heart that we will both see together the opportunities that exist NOW from the Waterways in our new DIA zone for everyone.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
The 9/23/13 DIA Board meeting this morning has me reflecting back and just saying "WOW"!
The agenda was lighter because some key Downtown projects LaVilla, Laura St. Trio, Haydon Burns, Bostwick, were given to OED by action that was taken by DIA. Remember this was the end of a DIA Board meeting prior to the arrival and start of Aundra Wallace. It only became known when Mike Langton went up and asked and then received a copy from Paul Crawford acting director of OED.
So after tonight's city council meeting look for the immediate handouts that will be outside the control of the DIA. This has to be positive.
There was one piece of legislation 2013-564 the Enterprise Lease at the Library Garage that was another backbreaking piece of legislation that had chairman Barakat along with fellow Board member Kay Harper Williams crunching some numbers and again just scratching there heads as this legislation is before council tonight. Again, councilwoman Boyer who is a fantastic resource can only deliver a request and then see what action council members want to take.
Chairman Barakat you want to see frustration and some Backroom deals and stick your hand out opportunities go to a Jacksonville Waterways FIND subcommittee meeting. I digress.
The highlight for me was at the end of the meeting and during Public Comment a speaker noting some significant and I guess you can just call it criminal behavior that had people going to jail. Just a concern that needed to be brought before the DIA Board as we move forward. Makes me think that the new guy Paul Astleford CEO of Visit Jacksonville is not far off when he identified 32 organizations hindering Tourism (RICO). Would welcome anyone else's interpretation of that verbal exchange.
So much more.
When is the next DIA anything? Anyone?
Downtown Experience Committee meeting of the DIA just three hours out. Anyone going? Will there even be one TV station. Everyone excited about the new Waterway signage? Pre Aundra Wallace (I feel so sorry for the man)
Have a call in to my elected legislative representative Don Redman. It has been weeks if not months and still no response back but as the chair of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission he had to have gotten the memo about the new signage.
Has anyone seen an agenda?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Two hours out.
I"m excited about Downtown.
I"ll be there.
I so much want to be one of the biggest cheerleaders.
Paul Astleford is a hero.
My hero Paul Astleford the new CEO of Visit Jacksonville was at the 10/14/13 Downtown Experience Committee meeting of the DIA that according to Board member Tony Allegretti is the (Fun) Committee of the Downtown Investment Authority. And when a meeting starts at 4pm on a Friday you want to make it Fun and the man doesn't disappoint.
So going straight from the agenda.
Members:
Tony Allegretti, Chair was SOLO, not SILO. (Remember this is the Fun Committee)
Committee members Don Harris and Mike Saylor were No Shows.
introductions
illuminate Jax- Margie Seaman and David Laffitte
Jen Jones-Unity Plaza
David Wingard- Downtown Marketing Collaborative Campaign Downtown is on Fire
Katherine Hardwick-DVI Update
Discussions
Announcements
Public Comments
Adjournment
Scott Wilson assistant to my elected legislative representative Don Redman District 4 was in the house and after our phone call I'm glad that he made the time to be a part of this growing positive movement to make Downtown a Destination and not a pass through. On the phone I mentioned to Scott if he has any clue as to the new Waterway signage that is within our new DIA zone. He didn't. Make no mistake about it we are so LOST. Next Jacksonville Waterways Commission just days out and does anyone know anything about the new Waterway signage? We all need to rally and help Scott and Don on this. Seriously.
The first person that posts a picture of the new Waterways signage on Metrojacksonville I will treat you to a meal at Chopstick Charly's. I have yet to go. I want to but I'd love to share the experience with someone. Also extra bonus points if you take a picture of this new Waterway signage at night with a flashlight. (Illuminate Jax- Margie, David, hope you guys are laughing)
Here are some clues. it is located within our new highly restricted DIA zone.
It is next to our St. johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative.
If anyone can help Scott and Don FIND this especially before the next Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting you will be making a Public Service Announcement not only to the citizens of Jacksonville but will immediately be telling Governor Scott and the world that Jacksonville is open for business.
Another highlight of the meeting came at the end and it was during Public Comment and our new CEO Aundra Wallace was there. I informed the group that I have been attending FIND (Florida Inland Navigation District) meetings for 5 years. The issue Pocket Parks - Pocket Piers and for it to happen and use FIND money you need a sponsor. A Mayor, City Council Member, or in Jacksonville's new environment a DIA CEO. So after waiting a year I made a monetary presentation to the acting chair Tony Allegretti for 2009-442 The Artificial Reef Trust Fund and it ultimately ended up in the hands of Jason Gabriel. The check was made out to the city of Jacksonville. 6 artificial reefs south of the Fuller Warren bridge just screams TOURISM! more importantly it is an Ord. That was legislatively created and should be seen as a tool in the foundation of a Public, Private, Partnership in moving Jacksonville to the next level.
Another highlight of the meeting came when the meeting was over and talking with my hero Paul Astleford the new guy with Visit Jacksonville as we walked together back to his office. We walked through Hemming Plaza and the goal for the RFP on Hemming Plaza is November. But Mr. Astleford talked about the 32 Silos and some of them are definite downers and I couldn't agree with him anymore. At the meeting it was revealed that there are 1018 non profits in Jacksonville and this man has identified 32 that are hindering tourism. Not good. Ben - JCCI we were talking about you. We need to kayak Downtown before 2025.
Tides look great next week. Anyone interested in kayaking and fishing under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before Waterways?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
it will Embrace Us
On a positive note lets all help Don and Scott FIND the new Waterway signage before the next Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting.
I'm All In.
Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting today at 9:30 am city council chambers. Does anyone have a clue as to the new Downtown Waterways signage? DIA meetings today as well. Does the DIA know anything about it? Remember that OED had the DIA sign away with a Board vote millions of dollars. Not good. As for the signage has anyone contacted Don Redman the chair of Waterways?
Do we need the DIA?
Anyone going today? Will there be any news media? Will Tony Allegretti make the full Board aware of a donation that was made at the Downtown Experience Committee meeting 10/4/13 for 2009-442? The commissioners of FIND are aware of the issue. We have waited a year for this.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
The USS Adams is a POSITIVE benefit for not only Jacksonville but the country. They are still seeking a resolution of support from the DIA.
I say YEAH!!!!
DIA Board meeting today at 5pm 1st floor city hall. Has anyone seen an agenda? Highlight for me today will be the Downtown Experience Committee report and the donation that was made to 2009-442.
This is the one year Anniversary. Anyone going? Will there be any media there?
2 1/2 hours out. Open to the Public. One year Anniversary of our new Authority. Anyone going? Has anyone seen an agenda?
One hour out from our DIA/CRA in the USA and the future of Downtown Jacksonville.
Quote from: Noone on October 16, 2013, 04:02:53 PM
One hour out from our DIA/CRA in the USA and the future of Downtown Jacksonville.
Quote from: Noone on October 16, 2013, 02:22:08 PM
2 1/2 hours out. Open to the Public. One year Anniversary of our new Authority. Anyone going? Has anyone seen an agenda?
Quote from: Noone on October 16, 2013, 06:55:04 AM
DIA Board meeting today at 5pm 1st floor city hall. Has anyone seen an agenda? Highlight for me today will be the Downtown Experience Committee report and the donation that was made to 2009-442.
This is the one year Anniversary. Anyone going? Will there be any media there?
Noone, I know what I'm about to type isn't contributing anything to the discussion, but for the love of all that is holy.... will you please just dismiss the damn alarm and quit hitting the snooze button?
I personally have been following along to a majority of the discussion, but if I'm growing tired of opening the thread and only seeing one of your (also unproductive) posts, I can imagine that many others are as well. To the point that I'm going to stop paying attention to it. I don't need a 'when the meeting is' update; I need a 'what is happening at the meeting' update or a 'what happened at the meeting' synopsis.
Thanks in advance.
The 10/16/13 DIA Board meeting combined with the one year anniversary of our new DIA/CRA in the USA had me also wanting to hit the snooze button as this was a tough meeting to stay awake for or even attend for that matter.
Going straight from the agenda. Key no shows. Paul Perez, Board member, Robert Clements, Board member, Michael Saylor, Board member, Don Harris, Board member ( Understandable, job relocation) Jack Shad, Public Parking Officer, David DeCamp, Public Information Office, Jason Gabriel, Office of General Counsel
In attendance Oliver Barakat, Chairman, Jim Bailey, Vice Chairman, Kay Harper Williams, Secretary, Tony Allegretti, Board member, Melody Bishop, Board member, Aundra Wallace, DIA Chief Executive Officer, Karen Underwood, Recording Secretary, Paul Crawford, OED to receive an award, DIA City Council Liason, Lori Boyer, Dist. 5
With 8 items on the agenda and never a quorum with people trickling in late and leaving early had Chairman Barakat tabling items right from the start. What wasn't on the agenda was a Downtown Experience Committee report that would certainly wake everybody up. I specifically attended this DIA Board meeting for the Downtown Experience update.
So let's start with agenda item III- INFORMATION/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Letter of Appreciation- Tabled
Presentation/Discussion of Final Approved DIA operating budget, Nothing for the Public. How hard would it have been to have some copies. Do people need to pull a Langton and go up and ask for a copy so you can have an idea of all these numbers that are being rattled off or just what the heck is being voted on behind the scenes. There wasn't a sign in sheet and to Karen's defense I don't know how this is being Directed but lets tighten this up.
Hemming Plaza Update- Working on the draft RFP, And Waiting to hear back from Risk Management. That will be key.
Riverplace Blvd. project- Councilwoman Boyer shared with everyone that they may want to reach out to Denise Chaplick a new hire and she is a bike person in the planning dept.
USS Adams- They are ready to go and are you ready for this. Are there now going to be environmental issues on the site that could potentially hold up this project? If yes does the city have a plan for the cleanup? This is a Positive project.
Riverwalk Project- Stick your hand out for $300,000. Someone may want to post the supporter list.
Presentation on Homelessness and Vagrancy Solutions- I like chairman Barakat's initial response "Very Thought Provoking".
Redevelopment Plan Update- This is It. You snooze you Lose.
Prior to agenda item VII Public comment. DIA Board member Kay Harper Williams shared a Downtown Experience when the NBA game was being held and commenting and recognizing that attempting to engage with our river that these out of town guests with money were amazed that there was nothing to do. I'm just sitting there and just saying to myself and it's only going to get worse. pick and choose the winners and losers. Chairman Barakat did join with a comment that will be an area that the DIA will be addressing. Let's Remember the USS Adams is a Positive project.
So on to Public Comment.
The commissioners of FIND (Florida Inland Navigation District) we're meeting in south Florida this month but I shared with everyone again and I can assure you I will again the 2013 FIND grant application projects and of coarse my favorite the one that I affectionately refer to as the Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel, 26' Berkman floating dock compromise misrepresented by OGC to the Jacksonville Waterways Commission during the 2013 FIND grant application process. How wrong! This is our ad valorem property tax money.
Anyway the previous night I attended a Board meeting of the RFA (Recreational Fishing Alliance) and given the new DIA zone and the Implementation of this new CRA it was agreed upon that this would be a positive project to persue. So we will be moving forward with a petition to that effect. Positive.
There was some feedback from Board members and councilwoman Boyer.
RAM dock. Only opened when RAM is open. needs to be reevaluated.
Councilwoman Boyer also indicated she has a meeting scheduled with Kelley Boree to discuss upcoming FIND projects.
Paul Astleford the new CEO of Visit Jacksonville is still my hero.
identifying 32 organizations hindering Tourism can we all say RICO.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
I welcome any correction to the above interpretation of the 10/16/13 DIA Board meeting.
Thanks for the information Noone. What was the Hemming Park RFP going to be for?
^It was going to be tweaked and made to be better understood. Mr. Wallace was going to get with Kelley Boree and there were issues with Risk Management that needed to be resolved. It will be going back out. I didn't hear a lot of specifics. Maybe someone else picked up on another sentence or two and will post.
2013-695 new legislation and may be applicable for the RFP and Hemming Plaza. Next critical meeting of the CRA/DIA in the USA just two days out. Anyone going? Do we have any winner for the new Signage that was never before Waterways and we aren't talking about the new NO Fishing signs. I'll treat you to lunch at Chopstick Charley's.
HUGE meeting today. 3pm 1 st floor city hall after tea. Anyone going? The TV stations have been ignoring it. The entire future of Downtown is happening at these meetings. The legislative process. My elected legislative representative is supposed to be there today and lets all see what will happen. I was assured of representation.
A 20 square mile zone! And our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative runs through the middle of it.
Will any news media cover it?
One hour out. CRA/DIA in the USA Plan being finalized. Did the DIA Board approve anonymous (behind the scenes, secret participation?)
Plan on making a Public participation appearance with my elected legislative representation. What other option is left for Joe Q. Public?
dude...enough already...nobody is trying to keep this stuff secret
^Couldn't disagree more. The Public Trust just totally crushed. Walking in to city hall for the 10/23/13 Development Plan Committee workshop of the DIA I was talking with Paul Astleford my hero the new guy with Visit Jacksonville and when we got to the sign in sheet we ran into Scott Wilson who was also there but remained silent during the whole meeting. Councilman Redman is the chair of WATERWAYS! WATERWAYS! WATERWAYS! Our River. We aren't talking about retention ponds.
Secret stuff! I'll bet you a Chopstick Charley's lunch and we'll use Über to get there that in one day after listening to the media round table with Melissa Ross on First Coast Connect 89.9 fm Friday morning at 9 and I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that one of the topics will be the port dredging. No worries! As soon as that show is over everyone in the state of Florida should be contacting councilman Redman about the largest FIND dredging project in Duval county since who knows when. We are so LOST!
Secret stuff! There is still an open Silo contest on the new signage that was never before Waterways. Here is a clue. It's next to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative. It is within the new CRA/DIA in the USA zone.
It was a super meeting. I hope somebody posts about the positive energy that was generated from a lot of active participation. Super props to the Chair Melody Bishop. Tony Robbins and Laura Diettrich the consultants are doing an awesome job. Councilwoman Boyer is a fantastic resource. Aundra Wallace the new CEO of the DIA ( I still feel sorry for the man) But I had the feeling that he was becoming more aware of the issues and more engaging with the open meeting and process. I think that we are going to be starting our own Downtown fishing album together (Inside joke).
DIA Board meeting today at 5. We have a crew on the way to the scene. More at 11.
5 hours out. Anyone going? 5pm 1St. Floor city hall. Open to the Public.
Did anyone go?
DIA - Downtown Inspires Avoidance
OED- Overboard, Everybody,Downtown! That's the reaction I had after the secret RFP and procedures that were given for the Landing and had people going up to the podium and expressing WTF ( Where's The Freedom).
A positive moment was early in the meeting and the resolution for support for the USS Charles F. Adams at the Shipyard location.
Any news on Hemming Plaza?
More later.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Quote from: Noone on October 21, 2013, 08:40:29 AM
2013-695 new legislation and may be applicable for the RFP and Hemming Plaza. Next critical meeting of the CRA/DIA in the USA just two days out. Anyone going? Do we have any winner for the new Signage that was never before Waterways and we aren't talking about the new NO Fishing signs. I'll treat you to lunch at Chopstick Charley's.
One day out from a HUGE DIA meeting 4 pm Ed Ball building 1st floor 12/6/13.
Bring your egg nogg. This is the Fun Committee. We can use Uber or Super Uber.
Still have the open new signage contest that is still wide open and that was never before Waterways. Here is a clue. it's next to our river.
Planning a RICO paddle. HO, HO, HO, you can't Go.
I am Downtown and why you aren't.
Quote from: Noone on October 24, 2013, 01:49:31 AM
^Couldn't disagree more. The Public Trust just totally crushed. Walking in to city hall for the 10/23/13 Development Plan Committee workshop of the DIA I was talking with Paul Astleford my hero the new guy with Visit Jacksonville and when we got to the sign in sheet we ran into Scott Wilson who was also there but remained silent during the whole meeting. Councilman Redman is the chair of WATERWAYS! WATERWAYS! WATERWAYS! Our River. We aren't talking about retention ponds.
Secret stuff! I'll bet you a Chopstick Charley's lunch and we'll use Über to get there that in one day after listening to the media round table with Melissa Ross on First Coast Connect 89.9 fm Friday morning at 9 and I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that one of the topics will be the port dredging. No worries! As soon as that show is over everyone in the state of Florida should be contacting councilman Redman about the largest FIND dredging project in Duval county since who knows when. We are so LOST!
Secret stuff! There is still an open Silo contest on the new signage that was never before Waterways. Here is a clue. It's next to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative. It is within the new CRA/DIA in the USA zone.
It was a super meeting. I hope somebody posts about the positive energy that was generated from a lot of active participation. Super props to the Chair Melody Bishop. Tony Robbins and Laura Diettrich the consultants are doing an awesome job. Councilwoman Boyer is a fantastic resource. Aundra Wallace the new CEO of the DIA ( I still feel sorry for the man) But I had the feeling that he was becoming more aware of the issues and more engaging with the open meeting and process. I think that we are going to be starting our own Downtown fishing album together (Inside joke).
HUGE meeting today. Anyone going? 4pm 1st floor Ed Ball bldg. Haven't seen an agenda.
A new AUTHORITY
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
6 hours out. The future of Downtown. Anyone going?
Here was the agenda for the 12/6/13 DIA joint committee meeting of the Economy Tools and the Downtown Experience Committee.
Members
Oliver Barakat
Jim Bailey
Tony Allegretti
Melody Bishop
Mike Saylor
CEO Aundra Wallace was there.
No Shows
Kay Harper Williams
Paul Perez
Robert Clements
Introductions
1. The Late Bloomers Garden Club- Barbara Ketchum
2. The Connector- Eddie Berrang
3. The Retail Enhancement Plan- Aundra Wallace
Discussions
Announcements
public Comments
Adjournment
Quote from: thelakelander on October 17, 2012, 02:25:13 PM
I feel underdressed but I have fieldafm beat. He's wearing jeans. In the crowd, Councilman Love, Councilwoman Boyer, Jack Meeks, Doug Skiles and LaCena's favorite owner is here. Lots of media as well. Max Marbut from the Jax Daily Record, Ron Littlepage and Tim Gibbons from the Times-Union too. Noone just walked into the room as well.
One day out from the most anticipated DIA Board meeting yet. The stick your hand out Christmas party that can be the first wave of legislative taxpayer subsidized handouts. Has anyone seen an agenda? Anyone going? It's at 5pm 1st floor city hall on 12/18/13.
Why is this one more anticipated than all the others?
^Because of the legislative process that is Jacksonville, Florida. Full meeting of the Board of the DIA Downtown Investment Authority just 2 hours out.
It was a 4 hour meeting that at the end was worth the 180 seconds that Joe Q. Public is allowed to participate and my hat is off to the DIA Board for their engaging attention to our trophy asset that is our St. Johns River that will tell everyone to VISIT JACKSONVILLE!
DIA - Downtown Is Advertising
16 days ago at the full Board meeting of the DIA the first 2 1/2 hours felt like a Perry Mason Crime drama with judge Barakat doing an excellent job in maintaining order in the court room.
Going straight from the agenda of the 12/18/13 DIA Board meeting
I.- Call to Order- Chairman Barakat
Pledge of Allegiance
II.- Action Items
-Approval of 9/12/13 DIA special meeting minutes
-Approval of the 10/16/13 special meeting minutes
-CBS DDRB Appeal to DIA
-Resolution of the DIA recommending the adoption of the DT Jax Retail Enhancement Plan
-Resolution of the DIA recommending support of the LB JAX Development and it's acquisition of property located at 120 E. Forsyth St. And direct the DIA CEO to prepare an incentive package utilizing the DIA Downtown Jacksonville Retail Enhancement Program and the Downtown Historic Preservation and Revitalization Trust Fund, Subject to Jacksonville city council action.
III. Information Discussion items- Aundra Wallace
- Jacksonville Landing Update
IV. Downtown Briefing- Jim Klement
- DDRB Update and next meeting date 12/19/13
V. Old Business- Chairman Barakat
VI. New Business- Chairman Barakat
-FDOT Fuller Warren Bridge Project
VII. Public Comment
VIII. Adjournment- Chairman Barakat
The issue before the DIA is whether digital billboard advertising should be allowed in the new DIA zone specifically on I95 heading north before entering Downtown.
In my opinion if the vote was taken that day it would have failed. But at the next meeting it may pass.
In two days the Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA is at 4pm 1st floor city hall. The Fun committee.
^My mistake. Glad everybody cares. It is Feb. 7 next Friday at 4pm 1st floor city hall.
Anyone want to kayak and fish between now and then under the brand new No Fishing signs that was never before Waterways.
Still have an open contest for the new Waterway signage that was also never before Waterways. I'll treat you to Chopstick Charley's and we'll use Uber. This is all positive.
One day out from the Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA. Anyone going?
The meeting for the Downtown Experience subcommittee of the DIA is today at 4pm 1st floor city hall. I can't wait! Open to the Public. We all want to say Visit Jacksonville!
Today at 5pm 1st floor city hall. Open to the Public. Has anyone seen an agenda? Anyone going? Emailed Aundra Wallace. Do they know what is going on with the Southbank Riverwalk?
Did anyone go? Jason Gabriel is out from OGC and someone else is in as we wrap up the new CRA/DIA in the USA. This has to be positive.
There are never any handouts for the Public. Another positive.
The CRA and the Business Investment Development will be one document.
Key dates were announced.
April 7, 2014 will be the BID along with Marketing announcement and this will be on the web. DIA Board member Tony Allegretti immediately reminds the Board that this is the beginning of One Spark. At which he also adds that maybe the DIA can be a "Creator". LOL.
DDRB and 3 projects moving forward. Langton, Coles and Haydon Burns
What is going on with the $15,000,000 Southbank Riverwalk? Nobody knows. And this project has never been before Waterways. that is where we are at after DIA Board member Jim Bailey asked CEO Aundra Wallace (I still feel so sorry for the man) will find out and that will be a key update for the 2/28/14 meeting that may or may not happen and could be moved up to 9 or just be rescheduled. Another positive.
I'm planning a RICO paddle as we float this Armada through this new highly restricted DIA zone and take shots from both sides of the banks.
I am Downtown and why you aren't.
Who's next?
Does anybody care? Here is more positive updates from the 2/19/14 DIA Board meeting. It was a nice crowd especially if you are sticking your hand out.
Carla Miller and Cindy Laquidara may want to make a cameo appearance at the next meeting if for no other reason to explain how meeting minutes are no longer part of the agenda. Even with a full quorum. This has to be positive.
Under Action items on the agenda
Interline Brands, Third Amendment to Development Agreement and Resolution
Under Information/Discussion Items
Enforcement parking code Update - Jack Shad
CRA Plan Update- Aundra Wallace
DIA staffing Update- Aundra Wallace
hemming Plaza- Update
Riverplace Boulevard Road Improvements Update- Aundra Wallace
Under Downtown Briefing- Jim Klement
DDRB Update and next meeting date ( Thurs. March, 6 2014 at 2 pm)
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
One day out from the Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting of the DIA.
Anyone going?
Visit Jacksonville especially on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new highly restricted (Food Truck, Kayak) DIA zone.
The 3/11/14 DIA Downtown Experience subcommittee meeting AKA the (Fun Committee) met at 4pm and the Chair of Fun Tony Allegretti had us out of there in an hour and then some of us then took advantage of Happy Hour at the Volstead.
Board members in attendance
Mike Saylor
CEO Aundra Wallace
On the Agenda
Give Change Project- Parking meters for Homeless cause
Fourth of July Project-July 4th and 5th
Connection Festival- Sept. 12-14-Cultural Event
The spark that fired me up was the presentation that will take full advantage of an opportunity to use our St. Johns River an American Heritage River a FEDERAl Initiative in our new highly restricted (Food Truck, Kayak) DIA zone.
The event will be called
JAX Sports
&
River Fest
I'm All In
Martin Ramos the man behind Kona Skate Park is leading this positive packed event that will be using Metropolitan Park Marina that will bring thousands to this two day active recreational activity that will have something for everyone. Later I told the group that I launched my kayak at the official Mayor Brown kayak launch as a participant in the 3/2/14 HERO'S on the Water kayak tournament last Sunday.
Some of the Activities include
Jet Boarding
FMX
Skateboard Push Race
SUP- Stand Up Paddleboard
5K race
Biggest Inflatable Waterslides
Zipline, Power Jump
4 story jump
They will be partnering with the military
Also they will be having musical Entertainment. Food Trucks!!
It will be a ticketed event.
They are speaking with everyone and were at this meeting hoping to seek $25,000 from DIA as part of the $50,000 that they feel they need to get this project going. As CEO Aundra Wallace stated it will ultimately be up to the DIA Board as to how this will move forward in a funding request.
During Public comment I shared an update on the $15,000,000 Southbank Riverwalk project and how the 400' of Riverwalk behind the Duval County Public School Board Building that once it is ripped out it AIN'T coming back. Told the group that the RAM dock is only opened when RAM is open. Not good. 2013-384 - the armory for a buck a year and zero access to Hogans Creek. the legislation withdrawn. So many more examples feel free to add your own. I opened with 2007-451 and closed my 3 minutes with 2007-451 and how given what is happening with the Food Trucks our new 3mile DIA zone on the Waterways that this legislation needs to be amended as well.
In the meantime Mobro Guys, Let's all sing
No Shoes
No Shirt
No Money
No Problem
Visit Jacksonville!
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Special meeting of the CRA/DIA at 4pm 1 st floor city hall. Anyone going?
I'm not but I'll be looking forward to your report.
^Somebody else needs to show up at these things. Still have an open contest for anyone that can take a picture of the new Waterway signage that was never before Waterways and I'll treat you to Chopstick Charley's and we'll use Uber.
Quote from: Noone on March 19, 2014, 08:54:12 AM
^Somebody else needs to show up at these things. Still have an open contest for anyone that can take a picture of the new Waterway signage that was never before Waterways and I'll treat you to Chopstick Charley's and we'll use Uber.
Not sure what you're looking for? I can take pictures / have some old photo's, but I don't understand the comment haha.
^^No Problem. And not one member of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission had a clue either at the 11/13/13 full meeting in council chambers. Another classic Backroom deal and the total crushing of the Public Trust. Just pull the tape.
Stay positive. Will the CRA/DIA right a wrong? Today at 4. in District 4
The 3/19/14 Special meeting of the DIA had me going down memory lane as I awaited an opportunity for Public comment after the Discussion of CRA Redevelopment Plan comments by DIA Board members.
It was hours later but worth the wait. When I talk about going down memory lane it is because in the house was Ted Pappas who was the Chair of my first JCCI study River Dance - Putting the River in River City and then at the DIA table was also another person that also oversaw a lot of land decisions that will impact us all for generations and the woman who was there the first time that I addressed the commissioners of FIND(Florida Inland Navigation District) five years ago Susan Grandin.
Members in attendance Barakat, Bailey, Allegretti, Bishop, Gibbs, Meeks, Saylor. No shows Williams, Clements
The format was such that The DIA in the preparation for the final draft that should be completed by April 30 was fine tuning the elements that will be eventually voted on by the Jacksonville city council.
There is just one more opportunity for Public comment by anyone that could influence the legislative language that will be created and we will all have to live by in this document and that will be April 16. Place and time to still be determined.
There were a number of topics and areas of discussion. What I always find interesting is if the so called experts find an issue hard to understand than can you imagine how Joe Q. Public is trying to understand the issue.
The topics and then the range of power that will be created with this DIA can have street closures. Parts of Monroe. Coastline Line and Liberty for programming. Or permanently.
Financing Sources and using fines, Code enforcement liens. Aundra Wallace chimed in with patient money that may be looking for a 10 year return. HEY- Palms Fish Camp, PS4, I digress.
Some exciting things that can be done now and leave it again to DIA council liaison Lori Boyer Dist. 5 when discussing WIFI and told everyone that there is $61,000 from the Friendship Fountain account that can activate that area and MOSH. Mr. Allegretti to Mr. Robbins even followed up to make sure that you have that $61,000 in there for the WIFI. hemming Plaza could also have WIFI.
Another interesting topic was lighting and Melody Bishop touched on how developers are forced to use old outdated lighting at $8000 per light. A lot of good discussion going forward in this area and Mike Saylor with creative lighting and Laura Dietrich with regs on ATM lighting. Point is Downtown won't be dark anymore!
There was a lot of discussion about Hemming Plaza and the Snyder building. In fact they had to come back to this issue after the break. When talking about the Snyder building should it be used for revenue or highest and best use. Concensus was highest and best use. I liked how Mike Saylor said we need to make the Snyder a "Franchise Building."
On the bottom of the list was Hogans and McCoys Creek (Tony and Laura were hoping that I would have left by then) Only kidding its a joke, hope your laughing. and why the 5 year time frame was attached and the explanation as to the extent and magnitude of the cleanup and the agencies that are involved. There was some good discussion and Jim Bailey weighed in on the river and it's use now. Positive comments from Melody Bishop and councilwoman Lori Boyer. Councilwoman Boyer went so far as to say that the St. Johns River could have its own category. She was talking about stronger connection language, Tourism-(Paul Astleford, Visit Jacksonville) view corridors through building design and she pointed out a ULI Vancouver report. Mr. Meeks talked about his positive experience with Vancover.
Parking and Food Trucks were also mentioned.
So to Public comment and it was reminded to speakers that the Public comments were only specific to the comments that were discussed by the DIA Board members in this CRA Redevelopment Plan. I read right from my speaker card and shared with everyone that if anyone asked me today are we getting more Public Access and Economic opportunity to our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our newly created DIA zone. I would tell them NO. In fact I'd tell them that we are just going to Crush you. I told the DIA that I attended the 3/15/14 meeting of the Commissioners of FIND that was held here in Duval county. And during Public comment at the FIND meeting as 1000's of runners are going over the Main St. bridge for the Gate River run I'm holding up the front page of the Times Union and telling the Commissioners of FIND when you get back to the Hyatt look out your window and you see the cranes and barges. They are ripping it all out and then they were going to short us 900' of Public Access at the very east end. it could have been a FIND project.
I continue to remain positive as we all should.
Legislation is the dialogue of the community.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
DIA Board meeting at 9am today first floor city hall. Anyone going?
D-Downtown
I-Is
A-Adrift
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It Will Embrace Us
The 3/21/14 DIA Board meeting had me getting another $15 parking ticket in the Urban Core. VISIT JACKSONVILLE!
I didn't plan on staying for the meeting but did fill out a speaker card and submitted it for the permanent record. As a back up I did email chairman Barakat and my councilman Don Redman a picture of the speaker card. Scott Wilson you were there and feel free to jump in at any time.
Instead what happened was I picked up the agenda and the Southbank Riverwalk Update was first up under agenda item III - Updates. Don't want to miss that. How many more Backroom deals can we have?
But before that there were two action items.
2014-03-01 A resolution of the DIA requesting the Jacksonville city council to enact an ordinance 1) Authorizing and approving a Second Note Modification Agreement and Second Mortgage Modification Agreement among the city, VCP-Roosevelt Building, LTD., and VCP-Roosevelt garage, LLC and a second note modification agreement and second mortgage modification agreement between the city and VCP Lynch Building LTD. 2) Requiring an acknowledgement and consent of guarantor by the Vestcor companies Inc. for each loan modification; and 3) providing for oversite of the project by the Downtown Investment Authority
It passed and chairman Barakat alluded to how this will effect the Northbank TIF
2014-03-02 A resolution of the Downtown Investment Authority Authorizing the adoption of the Downtown Jacksonville Retail Enhancement Grant Program Guidelines.
It passed.
So on the Southbank Riverwalk Update it was announced that they are looking for a Dec. 10 ribbon cutting ceremony.
Chairman Barakat for the next full DIA Board meeting wanted DIA CEO Aundra Wallace to gather information on three issues.
1. Where are the Public Access points. I hope everyone remembers way back when that DIA Board member Melody Bishop mentioned that a canoe, kayak, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) launch next to MOSH. I hope the School Board will now support the Tom Ingram, Ashley Smith Juarez canoe, kayak, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) launch that could or could not be a FIND ( Florida Inland Navigation District) project. Public, Private, Partnership?
2. Parking
3. Can the DIA use TIF dollars near the Main St. bridge Right of Way. Yes or No
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Yes
DIA meeting today before city council meeting? Will my speaker card be read into the record?
Are there any reports on what happened at the last CRA/DIA in the USA meeting? Anyone. Governance was one of the topics. These meetings at this point were supposed to be televised. Pull the tape. Pre Aundra Wallace.
MJ- Does anyone have any idea what has been going on recently with all the behind the scenes decisions that will impact all of us. Any news anywhere about the stalled legislation 2014-190 for a completed Southbank Riverwalk? Redman at RCD yesterday told me the School Board now has issues?
At 11-12 today on the 4 th floor is a meeting where the DIA zone of the Waterways will be discussed. Open to the Public. Anyone going?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It Will Embrace Us
Is there any news being reported anywhere on what is going on with the DIA?
The 4/2/14 Noticed meeting on New Docking Rules by Dist. 14 city councilman Jim Love for a constituent on an issue not in his District reinforces to everyone in this community why you want councilman Love back in District 14.
Ben Warner -JCCI forget Vision 2025. Forget water launches in 2020. Ben, we need to open the River NOW. Are you getting my emails?
Councilman Redman you were there. Will there be a report for everyone on Waterways? Is this going to be on the agenda for the 4/9/14 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting?
Still have an open contest for the new Waterway signage that is in the new super restricted (Food Truck, Kayak) DIA zone. I will treat you to Chopstick Charley's and we will use Uber.
Special DIA meeting today at 3 pm 1 st floor city hall. Is anyone going? Will there be any coverage? Topics will be governance and new legislation.
Open our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new super duper highly restricted (Food Truck, Kayak) CRA/DIA in the USA zone. Do it NOW! Forget waiting to 2020. What are you nuts?
RAM dock only opened when RAM is open. Not good. 4 years later.
2013-384- Armory for a buck a year and ZERO access to Hogans Creek.
New Floating Docks on the Southbank and a 10 year no compete clause for one vendor.
My number one favorite..... The Jim Love, Kevin Kuzel 26' Berkman Floating dock compromise (Shipyards III) misrepresented by OGC during the 2013 FIND grant application process. Also super props to DIA liaison and Jacksonville Waterways Commission member Lori Boyer District 5 with an OGC follow up opinion on Catherine St. I will swear to that one under oath in any court of law. It is brilliant and I had absolutely nothing to do with it.
add your own there is more.
A new Authority
Embrace It
or
It will Embrace Us.
Dictators Rule.
Going on right now. Is anyone there?
Is there a CRA/DIA in the USA meeting on Wed? Anyone. My understanding is that this will be the last opportunity for Public Comment before it will be advanced to the full Jacksonville city council for approval.
Quote from: Noone on April 14, 2014, 05:46:14 PM
Is there a CRA/DIA in the USA meeting on Wed? Anyone. My understanding is that this will be the last opportunity for Public Comment before it will be advanced to the full Jacksonville city council for approval.
from what I hear that meeting will be limited to just a small part of the docuement
Thanks for the reply back. Will that small part of the document address the crushing of the Public Trust when it comes to Public Access and economic opportunity on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our new super duper restricted DIA zone?
I don't think that I have received an email of this noticed meeting. So what time and where is this meeting? Anyone.
^ I'm not sure the general public feels their trust has been crushed regarding access to the river.
as to when the meeting is, its listed right there on the DIA page of the City's website.
DIA Regular Meeting
April 16, 2014
4 p.m.
City Hall, 117 W. Duval St., First Floor - Lynwood Roberts Room
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 15, 2014, 08:33:08 AM
^ I'm not sure the general public feels their trust has been crushed regarding access to the river.
Thanks for the info. The 4/2/14 Noticed meeting by councilman Jim Love on new docking Rules along with District 4 councilman Don Redman illustrated to all those that were there that we have some serious issues. Scott Wilson feel free to jump in here at any time. Super props to councilman Love.
It was a while back and Pre Aundra Wallace but when you have a CRA consultant using a Public comment period to tell DIA Board members to tighten up because people are going to jail for this. I think that Joe Q. Public would be sitting up a little bit straighter in the chair too.
The next level may not include you. Be concerned. Anyone going? Will there be any media there? Does everyone remember that these meetings were going to be televised like the city council and committee meetings. What happened?
Will there be any media at this HUGE meeting? Anyone going? Has anyone seen an agenda?
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 14, 2014, 10:08:04 PM
Quote from: Noone on April 14, 2014, 05:46:14 PM
Is there a CRA/DIA in the USA meeting on Wed? Anyone. My understanding is that this will be the last opportunity for Public Comment before it will be advanced to the full Jacksonville city council for approval.
from what I hear that meeting will be limited to just a small part of the docuement
What are you hearing about today's meeting of the CRA/DIA in the USA this morning at 9am 1 st floor city hall? Will there be any media there?
The Public Trust is being completely and totally destroyed when it comes to economic opportunity on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in this new Super Duper restricted zone.
Scott Wilson, Councilman Redman feel free to jump in here at any time. Will either of you be making an appearance at this meeting this morning?
The next level. Doesn't include you!
Visit Jacksonville?
Quote from: Noone on April 16, 2014, 03:03:54 AM
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 15, 2014, 08:33:08 AM
^ I'm not sure the general public feels their trust has been crushed regarding access to the river.
Thanks for the info. The 4/2/14 Noticed meeting by councilman Jim Love on new docking Rules along with District 4 councilman Don Redman illustrated to all those that were there that we have some serious issues. Scott Wilson feel free to jump in here at any time. Super props to councilman Love.
It was a while back and Pre Aundra Wallace but when you have a CRA consultant using a Public comment period to tell DIA Board members to tighten up because people are going to jail for this. I think that Joe Q. Public would be sitting up a little bit straighter in the chair too.
The next level may not include you. Be concerned. Anyone going? Will there be any media there? Does everyone remember that these meetings were going to be televised like the city council and committee meetings. What happened?
HUGE meeting today at 3pm 1st floor city hall on the CRA and it is supposed to be all about the Downtown Waterfront. Anyone going?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
DIA Board meeting two days out. Anyone going? let's remember that at all these meetings that OGC keeps reminding these guys that you have power and can participate in active legislation. New docking Rules and Penalties in 2014-305 can this be taken up by the Board in a resolution and then advanced to city council? YES! Everything is on the table for Downtown on our Waterways.
Have never had an email back from the CEO Aundra Wallace. These meetings were supposed to have been televised but they aren't.
At the 4/2/14 noticed meeting on docking Rules.
At the 6/11/14 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting
At the 6/16/14 Full DIA Board meeting will a resolution for an amendment be attached to active Jacksonville city council legislation 2014-305 that would allow for a24/7 commercial drop off and pick up at any existing and new public floating dock built in this new being drafted right now CRA/DIA zone that will extend from the Fuller Warren Bridge to the Mathews Bridge?
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It Will Embrace Us
Quote from: Noone on April 16, 2014, 03:03:54 AM
Quote from: tufsu1 on April 15, 2014, 08:33:08 AM
^ I'm not sure the general public feels their trust has been crushed regarding access to the river.
Thanks for the info. The 4/2/14 Noticed meeting by councilman Jim Love on new docking Rules along with District 4 councilman Don Redman illustrated to all those that were there that we have some serious issues. Scott Wilson feel free to jump in here at any time. Super props to councilman Love.
It was a while back and Pre Aundra Wallace but when you have a CRA consultant using a Public comment period to tell DIA Board members to tighten up because people are going to jail for this. I think that Joe Q. Public would be sitting up a little bit straighter in the chair too.
The next level may not include you. Be concerned. Anyone going? Will there be any media there? Does everyone remember that these meetings were going to be televised like the city council and committee meetings. What happened?
The Public Trust just destroyed in this community.
Anyone else feel sorry for the Baltimore guys who were railroaded out of here?
Vince Seibold- Environmental Ethics!
Ben- JCCI - Forget Actionville! Visit Seizureville! We need to kayak Downtown NOW before my kayak gets seized and impounded like a car in active legislation 2014-305.
Who just got promoted to oversee this higher level of FEDERAL regulatory Compliance?
Scott and Don tell everyone about 2014-305 being deferred in Waterways. Don and Scott tell everyone about the 4/2/14 Noticed meeting and the announcement by Tera Meeks, Paige Johnston, Margo, and the 1 vendor with a 10 year no compete clause on the yet to be built new floating dock on the Southbank 2014-190.
Palms Fish Camp- Who is getting a million taxpayer bucks on a vague contract?
DIA Board meeting today at 5pm. Will anyone be there?
The agenda of the 6/16/14 DIA (Downtown Investment Authority) Board meeting
I. Call to Order- Chairman Barakat
II- Action Items- Chairman Barakat (Requires DIA Action and / or Approval)
II. A Approval of minutes
II.B. Resolution 2014-06-01: USS Charles F. Adams
II. C 220 East Riverside/Unity Plaza
II.C.1. Blanket Permitting
II.C.2 Cross-Easement Agreements
II..D Resolution 2014-06-02 Project Coffee REV Grant
II. E Riverplace Boulevard Road Diet
II. F DIA Administrative Budget
III. Downtown Briefing - Jim Klement
DDRB June 5, 2014 Meeting Update
IV. Old Business- Chairman Barakat
V. New Business- Chairman Barakat
DIA Officer Nominating Committee
VI. Public Comments- Chairman Barakat
VII. Adjournment- Chairman Barakat
Anyone?
Anyone know when the next CRA, DIA meeting on anything is?
CRA/DIA meeting today at 3 pm city hall on the 3rd floor. This is our World Cup of Public Access and ECONOMIC opportunity on so many issues but especially on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative in our super duper restricted CRA/DIA zone. Pick and Choose the winners and losers.
A new Authority
Embreace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
^The 3 pm meeting has been cancelled.
DIA Board meeting today at 4 pm 1st floor city hall. Has anyone seen an agenda? Will any media be there? CRA? I have yet to to receive an email back from the CEO Aundra Wallace on various issues and the most recent 2014-305 New docking Rules and PENALTIES. And he was there for the 7/23/14 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting.
Agenda Item IV
Tera Meeks- 2014-305
Aundra Wallace- 2014-426
Is everyone still excited about the illegal unauthorized purchase of the water taxis 2014-412 by the Executive Branch that circumvented the Legislative Branch?
The Public Trust just destroyed in this community.
Visit Jacksonville!
Anyone going?
Will there be any media? Just a little more than 4 hours out. Rumor has it that it will be catered by La Nopalera
2014-560 is the legislation for the CRA/DIA that now needs a city council vote.
1 year anniversary of the new guy Aundra Wallace as the CEO of the DIA. Meeting today at 4 pm. 1st floor city hall.
DIA Board meeting today at 4pm 1st floor city hall. Anyone going? Anybody care? These meetings were originally supposed to be televised. Are the council chambers being used today at 4 pm for a Public purpose?
The best information at these meetings is what's not on the agenda. Will there be any media coverage?
The agenda for the 9/18/14
Downtown Investment Authority
Governance Committee
Chair- Craig Gibbs, Board Members, Doris Goldstein, Jack Meeks
Agenda Topics
1. DIA Internal Governance
A- By- Laws regarding Board Member attendance
B- Conflicts of Interest
2. Organizational Governance
A- Proposed Legislation
Also participating Aundra Wallace, DIA CEO; Guy Parola, DIA Redevelopment Manager; Susan Grandin, Lawsikia Hodges, OGC; Karen Underwood, DIA Executive Assistant; Also participating Councilwoman Lori Boyer Dist. 5
Um or Uh this meeting was a WOW! I'll give it a double WOW!
Ship Up or Ship Out, Or Shape Up or Ship Out, Were not just talking 2014-412 the water taxis. There will be a noticed meeting on this one.
Chair Gibbs ran a great meeting.
I want to know where in the By-Laws that Public comment is two minutes. Aundra, I thought we were fishing buddies.
The double WOW! for me was the tough love that was being dished out and not just by Aundra. This meeting was a lot of gut check to right this ship. Do we have any idea who was captaining the ship that hit the Mathews Bridge? No conflict of interest here!
This committee didn't hold back in sharing some real concerns and the discussions hit everyone. The Civic Council, Cultural Council, Mayor, CRA consultants with all positive criticisms. So much more.
Under Proposed Legislation and also being at the end of the meeting I mentioned and reinforced to the committee and it was also reaffirmed that the DIA has an active resolution that didn't take board action on 2014-305 New Docking Rules and Penalties at its 9/17/14 Board meeting. The resolution would support the legislation but attach an amendment that would allow a 10 minute commercial watercraft pick up or drop off at any existing or new dock, pier, kayak launch in this new 4.8 mile Waterfront rivers edge zone of our St. Johns River an American Heritage River a FEDERAL Intiative.
I left the meeting that these Authority changes will leave the Public with the impression that it will be an opportunity for all and not just picking the winners and losers.
What exactly did they say about conflict of interest? I wonder why that came up...
^Some of the discussion centered around Allegretti and being here and there and then voting on legislation here and there then moving on to here and there. You had to be there.
Quote from: Noone on September 22, 2014, 12:15:45 PM
^Some of the discussion centered around Allegretti and being here and there and then voting on legislation here and there then moving on to here and there. You had to be there.
geez and I was hoping it had to do with the real estate guys sitting on the board... Go figure the one guy everyone actually likes gets spotlighted.
There was discussion about the real estate people but not just confined to the Board. like I said it was a double WOW meeting and you would have thought they were all going from that meeting into an Ethics Commission meeting.
I was there to share with them what should be some of the largest Waterway violations that in my opinion can and should require immediate Federal intervention. It was a tough LOVE meeting to say the least.
well I am glad to see they are proactively keeping their house in order.
Any idea of when the next meeting of anything DIA is?
SUPPORT 560 with an A (AMENDMENT) was the battle cry at the end of the 10/22/14 DIA Board meeting.
Here is the agenda
Members
Oliver Barakat, Chairman
Jack Meeks, Vice Chair
Craig Gibbs, Secretary
Tony Allegretti, Board member
Melody Bishop, Board member
Dori Goldstein, Board member
Kay Harper-Williams, Board member
No Shows Robert Clements, Jim Bailey
I. Call to order- Chairman Barakat
A- Pledge of Allegiance
II. Action Items- Chairman Barakat (Requires DIA Action and or Approval)
A. Approval of September 17, 2014 Regular Meeting minutes
B. 200 Riverside Avenue Project
III. Chief Executive Oficer Report
A. Hemming Park Update- Vince Cavin
B. Development Projects Update- Aundra Wallace
C. Governance Subcommittee Update- Craig Gibbs (See Sept. Subcommittee Minutes)
D. Legislative Updates
BID Plan (ORDINANCE 2014-560)
IV. Downtown Briefing - Jim Klement
A. DDRB Oct. 2014 Meeting Update
V. Old Business- Chairman Barakat
VI. New Business- Chairman Barakat
VII. Public Comments- Chairman Barakat
VIII. Adjournment- Chairman Barakat
Next scheduled meeting Nov. 19, 2014 at 4pm
Staff Distribution
Aundra Wallace- DIA, CEO
Guy Parola, DIA Redevelopment Manager
Tom Daly, DIA Redevelopment Analyst
Jim Klement, DIA, DDRB
Susan Grandin, OGC
Lawsikia Hodges, OGC
Paul Crawford, OED, Deputy Director
Alex Rudzinski, OED
DIA Council Liason, Lori Boyer, Council member Dist. 5
Jack Shad, Public Parking Officer
Karen Underwood, DIA Executive Asst.
David DeCamp, Public Information Officer
No Shows-
Susan Grandin
Lawsikia Hodges
Paul Crawford
Alex Rudzinski
Jack Shad
David DeCamp
So where to begin? There are never any handouts for the Public at these DIA Board meetings.
So let me share with you two handouts that we're sitting on a Backroom table. The first was a report to the Stand Up for neighborhoods Blight Committee Regarding The OUT OF STATE LAWSUIT PROCESS 9/24/14 from OGC given by Cherry Shaw, Asst. General Counsel. Now we know.
The next handout is the Blight Awareness Campaign
dated 10/22/14
Aleizhab Batson, Deputy Director of Communications
Paul Martinez, Director of Intra- Government Services
Looks like we will be getting an APP for that.
Color T Shirt Options were on pages 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15
Fight Blight
Campaign Kick Off Date
Mid January
Well, back to the DIA (Downtown Includes Alcohol) 10/22/14 Board meeting.
200 Riverside Avenue Project- Just pass it. Get it through city council.
Hemming Park- Change is coming. MJ was mentioned again. Very Positive.
Governance Subcommittee Update- Some Backroom private meetings should clear this all up.
SUPPORT 2014-560 with an A(AMENDMENT) campaign will be bigger than the Governors race. Tony Allegretti was the big idea about Support 560. Here is an amendment that can be attached with 560 by the DIA or by the Jacksonville city council.
Please vote on your DIA Resolution to active Jacksonville city council legislation 2014-305 to attach an amendment that could allow for a 10 minute drop off or pick up for any commercial watercraft at an existing, new, dock, pier, kayak launch in our new 4.8 mile CRA/DIA 2014-560 zone. DIA CEO Aundra Wallace was at the RCDPHS and heard my Public comments and wants to reach out to councilman Crescimbeni and councilman Love and so Jacksonville can only hope that Mr. Wallace will immediately call for a noticed meeting so that 2014-305 can be amended or 2014-560 can be amended. Stay Positive.
I also made the DIA Board aware of Jacksonville's Community's First FIND (Florida Inland Navigation District) subcommittee meeting that is scheduled to take place 10/30/14 at 2pm in council chambers. gary Anderson is the Chair. This is our property tax money. Does anybody care? I made the DIA aware that Sydney Geffin Park on the Northbank was on the chopping block.
A new Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Just announced DIA subcommittee meeting 10/30/14 at 1:30 pm 3rd floor at city hall and this will be about the CRA. Has The BID been separated from the CRA? At 2pm will be the Community First FIND subcommittee meeting of the great LOST to look at FIND projects that have not been made Public in any media outlet. Stay Positive.
Visit Jacksonville!
The CRA, by state law, must be approved by City Council. The BID is purely a local document and may or may not require Council approval.
Quote from: Noone on November 23, 2012, 08:05:54 AM
The first committee meeting of our new DIA and the strategy for our CRA had me leaving the meeting with St. Johns River written on my hand and my new best Friend is DIA Board member Tony Allegretti. I've got a gut feeling were going to be FIND buddies and the timing couldn't be better.
There were only 4 people in attendance from the Public. Besides myself I recognized Doug Skiles, and councilwoman Lori Boyer. Committee chair Melody Bishop ran a great meeting and opened it up to everyone that wanted to participate. Mr. Harris and Mr. Allegretti were the only extra DIA Board members that attended this meeting in addition to Paul Perez.
One of the highlights for me and a shocker is that TIF as a potential funding source won't be available till 2017. Can that be true?
Sound like we need to FIND FIND now. During Public Comment I mentioned FIND also 2009-442 and mentioned that the administration is now aware of this pre TIF 2017 Bennie for Downtown.
So who wants to Make a scene in a Post Thanksgiving day paddle Downtown. Special shout out to my new Best Friend. Or anyone else who wants to write a check for even a buck to supporting (Local) the Artificial Reef Trust Fund that will tell the world that we are joining Mayor Brown in making Downtown a Destination and not a pass through on our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative.
CRA/DIA meeting today at 1:30 3rd floor city hall. And the Community First FIND subcommittee meeting of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission is at 2pm in council chambers. Will there be any media covering any of this? Will the NEW super duper Downtown Docking Zone map be made available?
Sydney Geffen Park. Is it in our out as a FIND project?
Another key element is the healthy and stealthy combo of Ashley Smith Juarez and Scott Shine and throw in Tom Ingram for a land hand SUP, Kitesurfing, Kiteboarding, kayak launch between the DCPS building and the JEA property. What does the Civic Council say about that positive inclusive benefit?
Will DIA CEO Aundra Wallace provide an update to his announcement to reach out to Dist.14 Jacksonville city councilman Jim Love and At-Large councilman John Crescimbeni Group 2 on an amendment to 2014-305 that is still in two committees RCDPHS and Finance. HEY! After the 10/29/14 Special Committee on CIP that my councilman Don Redman and I rode up the elevator and we should have gone right to Mayor Brown's office because we were talking about the Southbank Riverwalk and 2014-190 remember the 900' that it was going to be short. But instead we talked about the two new yet to be built floating docks and for the first time Don was open to a spot on one of the docks that could be for 24/7 Public Access and Economic Opportunity. That is POSITIVE.
The 10/30/14 CRA/DIA 1:30 pm meeting on the 3rd floor of city hall has been cancelled.
3/6/15 Special meeting of the DIA Board on Shipyards in less than an hour. Will MJ be there live blogging? A NATIONAL DESIGNATION Presentation is on the agenda. Starts at 9am 1st floor city hall open to the Public.
Next DIA Board meeting? Anyone. Next DIA meeting of any kind?
There is a DIA Board meeting in 1 hour. WOW! Anyone going? Has anyone seen an agenda? Will there be any media there?
Quote from: Noone on November 03, 2012, 09:35:02 PM
Quote from: fieldafm on October 30, 2012, 02:00:46 PM
I am here. Bill Hoff also just entered the room. MUCH smaller crowd than the first meeting. This meeting should really only cover the CEO search criteria.
For a meeting that was only supposed to cover the CEO search criteria it turned into a marathon that landed me my first $15 parking ticket in a long time. It appears that it will be an anything goes Authority that will just embrace picking the winners and losers and we'll figure out how to pay for all this stuff later on. In the meantime get ready to stick your hand out and get in line.
Intuition Ale I'd love to see you build your dream location next to the Bay St Entertainment Zone along our St. Johns River our American Heritage River a Federal Initiative. Just show up and ask. That's all you have to do. Just show up. If one of the first recommendations can be a resolution for an eminent domain action by this DIA against a private land owner then a Public request by a business should be met with the same euphoric acceptance especially when it is the former Shipyards/ Landmar location. Total destruction of the Public Trust.
I arrived for the 2 o'clock meeting. There will now be another meeting Monday, Nov. 5 at 2pm. In the St. James bldg. first floor. The sole purpose is to fast track this for city council vote and approval. Kinda like the FSCJ Golden Parachute Ride by a Board. The JTA super thank you bailout package by a Board. The stuffing for Thanksgiving hopefully will be delivered by our city council for this Board.
I filled out the sign in sheet and in the future you can only hope and cross your fingers that there will be minutes of the previous meeting made available for the Public.
The highlight of the meeting and there were a couple. But to just touch on one and I'll have more later but I'm always amazed how an interim director and it never matters what dept. it is just passes the ball along. But I think of it as a fumble and the teammate picks it up and runs for a touchdown and then wins the game for the city. Thus was the case when Mr. Lindstrom was asked to go and then prepare a presentation for everybody. And that was the report on the CRA workshop. The man delivers when asked.
I have witnessed this before in the past and have been directly involved and again I have to give super props to Mr. Lindstrom in a very informative power point presentation that needs to be seen by the entire city council as well.
Hats off again to Love and Boyer for attending the meeting. Councilwoman Boyer we need to go kayaking and not just in Dist. 5.
As for Public Comments. I'm bringing my own timer next time.
Old Buildings
New Buildings
We don't care
We are the DIA
And you will do what we say.
I attended the 3/25/15 DIA Board meeting and arrived late because of another parking story that averted another $15 parking ticket. Just luck. So during Public comment I opened with my Downtown parking story and was hoping that Jack Shad the parking guy would have been there to not only address this issue but the two recent letters to the editor in the Times Union about people wanting to visit the new Soutbank Riverwalk and not being able to FIND parking. The point is that there is and I believe it to be true some Public Parking spots between the Penninsula and the Charthouse for Public parking and still waiting to hear back from Jack about this. If true. This would be a positive benefit.
Also shared with the DIA Board that I continue to tell people that say that we are getting more Public Access and economic opportunity to our St. Johns River an American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative especially in our new CRA/DIA zone that we are getting crushed. Does anyone else still feel sorry for the Baltimore guys 2014-412? LOSERS! So anyway, I shared a positive response back from an email from Dr. Vitti and the potential for a handicapped kayak, SUP, Wind surfing launch next to the JEA property. This potential location was recently highlighted from a presentation given at the 3/11/15 Jacksonville Waterways Commission meeting by Alice Krauss, with Brooks Rehabilitation after evaluating existing kayak launches throughout Duval County. JWC Board member Ray Pringle was instrumental in getting this issue in front of the Administration and JWC. The DIA along with Don Redman District 4 and this is still his district until July 1 are the ultimate decision makers in this issue right now. Was also lucky enough to share this with David DeCamp, the Public Information spokesperson with the administration. We were laughing because this simple issue sounded like an Abbott and Costello bit. Who's on First. I like Dr. VItti.
Also during Public comment I mentioned that next door the full Jacksonville city council is meeting and voting on 2015-38 which is our FIND projects and that this DIA Board should be outraged that none of this was brought to your attention since some of the projects are under your control. What a joke. This is our property tax money.
We all want to say
Visit Jacksonville!
A New Authority
Embrace It
Or
It will Embrace Us
Is there a DIA meeting today open to the Public and anyone from One Spark should go and attend this Open Public meeting. Will there be any media there? Is this the open meeting about the Shipyards or Jacksonville Landing property? What a Spark of news that could break on MJ.
DIA (Downtown Is Adrift) Board meeting today at 2pm. City Hall. Open to the Public. Will there be any media there? Spoke with Aundra Wallace last night at the 1/26/16 Jacksonville city council meeting about 2016-18 our FIND projects. Asked him if the DIA had been given a presentation on any of these Waterway projects in the CRA/DIA zone. "No." Was his response. We are so LOST.
2016-18 is active legislation. Still needs to go through Finance and RCDPHS. Will UNF, JU show up? How about the Riverkeeper? How about the National Park Service given the Projects.
An hour out. Anyone going?
Quote from: stephendare on January 27, 2016, 04:27:52 PM
So the parking lot behind the old courthouse is coming out as part of the liberty Street improvements. Instead it will be open water. Apparently as a marina
This was agenda item IV D Liberty Street Improvements- Public Works. John Pappas gave an informative update. Expected completion would be about 22 months out.
I guess there goes any idea of a Convention Center there. Of course there is no money for one anyway.
Quote from: stephendare on January 27, 2016, 04:27:52 PM
So the parking lot behind the old courthouse is coming out as part of the liberty Street improvements. Instead it will be open water. Apparently as a marina
Yes. Doing that will save th city millions, as opposed to replacing it.
At the 1/27/16 DIA Board meeting the Water Taxi issue was brought up. Also it was brought to the attention of the DIA Board about active Jacksonville city council legislation 2016-18 The 2016 FIND Grant Projects. This will be in Finance and RCDPHS. Will anyone representing the St. Johns Riverkeeper, UNF, JU, DIA, National Park Service be at these committee meetings? DIA/Shipyards has also gone from 150 marina slips to 400. Has that been reported anywhere?
Quote from: stephendare on January 27, 2016, 04:27:52 PM
So the parking lot behind the old courthouse is coming out as part of the liberty Street improvements. Instead it will be open water. Apparently as a marina
So any details on the Riverwalk there? Will it be following the land, bridging the gap (following current path), or being forgotten about completely? I guessing (but hoping not) the last.
Quote from: vicupstate on January 28, 2016, 05:56:46 AM
I guess there goes any idea of a Convention Center there. Of course there is no money for one anyway.
I don't think that parking lot would be sufficient for a convention center anyway, unless you want to add another parking structure to the river view. Probably be better served by a parking structure, though I don't know where you'd put it. Or you could skip the parking altogether, and put that money toward extending the Skyway another 6 blocks (better yet, 16 or so blocks).
The riverwalk will follow the land. I'll see if I can dig up the old thread about this project from a few months back.
Quote from: PeeJayEss on January 28, 2016, 01:46:14 PM
Quote from: stephendare on January 27, 2016, 04:27:52 PM
So the parking lot behind the old courthouse is coming out as part of the liberty Street improvements. Instead it will be open water. Apparently as a marina
So any details on the Riverwalk there? Will it be following the land, bridging the gap (following current path), or being forgotten about completely? I guessing (but hoping not) the last.
Quote from: vicupstate on January 28, 2016, 05:56:46 AM
I guess there goes any idea of a Convention Center there. Of course there is no money for one anyway.
I don't think that parking lot would be sufficient for a convention center anyway, unless you want to add another parking structure to the river view. Probably be better served by a parking structure, though I don't know where you'd put it. Or you could skip the parking altogether, and put that money toward extending the Skyway another 6 blocks (better yet, 16 or so blocks).
Supposedly, the convention center could still be built on pylons over the water. The ones supporting the parking lot would not have been able to carry the weight and it would have had to be done anyway. But anything involving the convention center is now a long way off.
I for one am happy that the decision was made to do away with the parking lot. In my opinion this would actually enhance that particular part of the riverwalk next to the Hyatt and Berkman especially if a marina can be placed there later on. I would give up on the idea of a new convention center taking the place of the old courthouse and focus more on its inclusion into the shipyards proposal to replace the practice facility portion in the old renderings, or find space between the sports district surface lots, metro park, or the kids park. Afterall, this area will be where all the sports and entertainment venues will be and a convention center within the sports district would complement and anchor the new developments on that end. Building a center on pylons over the water in the current courthouse spot would prove to be hella expensive i would think. Id rather see housing in the old annex and either raze the old courthouse and replace it with central park or more bars and clubs along bay.
I'm sure noone has already said this at least 10,000x already, but if they put in a marina I'd love for it to be more open/usable to general public and small craft friendly. This would be an excellent spot for kayak, swan/dragon boat, SUP, canoe and small sail boat rental/launching. Would love to see something like what New Jersey has...
(http://www.nj.gov/drbc/library/images/PAcoast-day/swan-boats.jpg)
(http://www.travelpueblo.org/Paddle%20Boat%20Rides%20on%20Pueblo's%20Riverwalk.jpg)
They could do something very nice when they remove the parking lot. Unless Florida Coastal ends up taking the old courthouse, it would be a great location for a convention center.
Quote from: thelakelander on January 28, 2016, 01:49:54 PM
The riverwalk will follow the land. I'll see if I can dig up the old thread about this project from a few months back.
Here you go!
Quote from: icarus on August 26, 2015, 11:06:39 AM
http://floridapolitics.com/archives/189050-liberty-street-fix-highlights-jax-cip-budget-discussion-finance-backs-2-year-plan (http://floridapolitics.com/archives/189050-liberty-street-fix-highlights-jax-cip-budget-discussion-finance-backs-2-year-plan)
Say what you want ... but this administration is off to a strong start in my opinion.
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/forum/index.php/topic,23616.msg423212.html#msg423212
quote from the article in the icarus link:
QuoteSam Mousa, from the Curry administration, spoke next of the "$37 million capital improvement project" that would remove and replace the afflicted sections of Liberty Street and Coastline Drive, and demolish the section of Coastline between Market Street and Liberty, and the courthouse parking deck.
The recommendations:
Replacing Coastline between Newnan and Market.
Replacing and extending the Liberty Street Bridge to the St. Johns River
Removing the section of Coastline between Market and Liberty
Removing the Courthouse Parking Deck.
Providing streetscape improvements to rerouted sections of the Northbank Riverwalk.
The time is now to act: "Contractors are not quite as hungry as they were, so they are able to jack up their prices a little."
Mousa described it as a "final fix for the area," committed to after concluding that repairs weren't possible.
Quote from: jaxjaguar on January 28, 2016, 06:32:15 PM
I'm sure noone has already said this at least 10,000x already, but if they put in a marina I'd love for it to be more open/usable to general public and small craft friendly. This would be an excellent spot for kayak, swan/dragon boat, SUP, canoe and small sail boat rental/launching. Would love to see something like what New Jersey has...
(http://www.nj.gov/drbc/library/images/PAcoast-day/swan-boats.jpg)
(http://www.travelpueblo.org/Paddle%20Boat%20Rides%20on%20Pueblo's%20Riverwalk.jpg)
I'm all for more river access for small and self-powered watercraft, but I don't think this location is one where you want to be encouraging access. Noone has been on the river and knows what he's doing, but if someone that hasn't been on the river (or isn't a very strong paddler) were to put in right there, they could get in some trouble if it isn't close to slack tide.
Though maybe I'm being too much of a worrier. Kayakers can already pretty easily put in at RCBC or the Landing, and it doesn't seem that newbies have really been drawn to doing that. Though at those two places you are basically starting out in the river, whereas this new area would be pretty protected, possibly misleading some.
Will the DIA be there today at the 2/1/16 9:30 am Finance meeting to answer questions about the 2016 FIND Grant Project List that contains Downtown Water Projects? PeeJayEss is spot on with his concerns and I echo them. This spot opened up will be positive and create a very large basin area. This is the Berkman marina instead of being Private will be Public.
The concern for anyone paddling in the river in our 4.8 mile DIA Rivers Edge zone should be safety zones. This spot will give and provide a nice landing area that can accommodate everyone. And it should. At the 1/27/16 DIA Board meeting John Pappas with Public Works told everyone that right now this project will be done in about 22 months. Let's all remember that we are starting A Maritime Management Plan 2013-380 with a 3 year process that will use FIND Grant money. Nassau county is out? Stay Positive.