Thanks to Richard Clark and Robin Lumb this morning in Finance Committee.
DIA's money has been transferred from DIA to CIP accounts in order to pave roads.
Really positive step in our city's history today at the hands of the always forward thinking Council members getting paid by NEFBA and road lobbyists.
You wouldn't need to steal the money from downtown if you two weren't DEAD SET on waiving mobility fees...
Was just about to post the same thing...http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-08-09/story/jacksonville-council-panel-wants-take-back-9-million-reserved-downtown
QuoteA Jacksonville City Council panel acted Friday to take back $11 million set aside for economic development projects, saying that money may be needed to cover big-ticket bills in the 2014 budget.
The largest piece, $9 million, had been earmarked for projects involving the city's Downtown Investment Authority, though none had been spent yet.
Downtown boosters said just knowing the money was there had helped focus developers' interest, and they wanted to hang onto that.
"If you can, just let the money sit there, because it's creating some buzz," Investment Authority member Mike Saylor appealed to members of the council Finance Committee.
Saylor said later there had been "momentum building for a downtown renaissance," and that the Investment Authority couldn't let losing that money derail it. "The real end game is the strength of our commitment to succeed," he said.
By a 4-3 vote, the committee recommended moving the money into a new council reserve account for capital projects, the high-dollar projects like roadwork that are supposed to create lasting value.
Councilman Richard Clark, who proposed the change, said he was surprised the money hadn't been reclaimed already.
Has Aundra Wallace signed his contract yet?
I swear this city is getting absolutely no where quickly. Born and raised native, have a home here and will forver live here. I love my city, but man they are a bunch of ass clowns. When this nightmare will end who knows. ::)
As the stomach turns. In keeping with this little ditty, I wonder how many realize that last year, funding that was collected as a "stormwater fee" and supposedly dedicated to that use alone, was also diverted to another effort? This continues and city officials cannot understand why the public doesn't believe anything they say or promise. By the way peeps, that stormwater fee was attached to your property tax bill. It is simply taken from you when your taxes are paid. Is dealing with our stormwater a problem? You better believe it is however if the money to deal with this issue is diverted we are doing nothing to address the problems posed by water runoff in our community.
Now we see this as a result of how the mobility fee was "mishandled" in order to please special interests in the building community. Wasn't there an issue on another thread having to do with money from another source being cut that was intended for roadways? Someone help me remember.
To be honest, this is not surprising. It's our history and until we're ready to not accept stuff like this politically, we'll keep circling the wagons.
I'm not convinced that this $9 million was ever DIA's to begin with. When it passed City Council the first time it was made clear that each proposed use of the money would have to go back to City Council for specific approval. And that it very well could be swept back in. I was hoping that we would have already seen some proposed uses for it by now.
Quote from: CityLife on August 09, 2013, 04:49:07 PM
Was just about to post the same thing...http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-08-09/story/jacksonville-council-panel-wants-take-back-9-million-reserved-downtown
Quote...
By a 4-3 vote, the committee recommended moving the money into a new council reserve account for capital projects, the high-dollar projects like roadwork that are supposed to create lasting value.
Absolutely SMH....
Clark and Lumb's pockets just got a little fatter! ;)
Could they at least use some of it to fill in the pothole everyone swerves around on W Adams right before Stuart St?
What did you expect in this town? The Mayor won't submit a realistic budget and you have a large group of very vocal people against taxes in any shape, form, or fashion. They mayor is too busy worrying about re-election instead of what is best for the city even thought it is unpopular.
It also wouldn't surprise me if the finance committee did this to send the mayor a message that his pet projects are not immune if he isn't going to do his job when it comes to the budget.
Quote from: CityLife on August 09, 2013, 04:49:07 PM
Has Aundra Wallace signed his contract yet?
from what I hear his start date is August 19th
Quote from: tufsu1 on August 09, 2013, 08:12:27 PM
Quote from: CityLife on August 09, 2013, 04:49:07 PM
Has Aundra Wallace signed his contract yet?
from what I hear his start date is August 19th
I wonder what they plan on using to fund DIA initiatives now that the 9 million has been pulled? They did set aside money for Wallace's salary, but that's it. Wonder where the DIA goes from here?
So we have a well paid Downtown Czar with no kingdom. I wonder if the politicians actually expect him to do anything or if his appointment was simply a nod of sorts to appease those pushing for urban revitalization.
Regardless, this native is shaking his head in continued disappointment.
Do we not have council members who serve downtown as a district? Does Clark run this city?
Downtown is in Redman's district.
Money diverted for Downtown. My first thought that pops into my head money diverted to pay the pension of a convicted child molester by the PFPF Board. Someone tell me what's positive about that.
Money diverted to Downtown. The 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting and the surprise power play by OED on the DIA at the end of the meeting for the Board approval and passage of a document titled "Authorization to Negotiate and Engage on Various Downtown Projects" just prior to the new guy Aundra Wallace starting Aug. 19 diverts power to pave more roads of corruption. Someone tell me what's positive about that.
Downtown is Redman's district as well as Jones, Gaffney, but we just had redistricting. We now have a new DIA zone. The breakup of consolidation with a task force. A world wide search for a new director of the Civic Council.
Vitti-A real new guy. Standing ovation for minutes at JCCI Vision 2025
The Public Trust destroyed in Jacksonville. The FBI in Jacksonville a positive benefit for the region and the state of Florida.
QuoteIt also wouldn't surprise me if the finance committee did this to send the mayor a message that his pet projects are not immune if he isn't going to do his job when it comes to the budget.
My thought as well.
If I were on the DIA board, I would really start to question if my time was being wasted just for political window-dressing.
oh this is perfect, we hired a new DIA director from bankrupt Detroit, then just as he is coming, we insure that the agency he is to administer is bankrupt also! Just as the developers of St. Johns Town Center did, which is to pay for their on infrastructure and land development, why not let those seeking to come downtown do the same? Why set up special rules for downtown if the council is not going to give them any money. No wonder the guy from Charleston, where they play under a different set of rules and their downtown is thriving, withdrew from consideration. We seem to be always, one step forward, and two backward.
Why is it ok for the mayor to spend all available revenue increasing every agencies budget then BORROW money from the Banking Fund to pay for road maintenance?
Why is ok for the mayor to delete definitions in the Budget Ordinance so he can use capital money, putting us deeper in debt, for road maintenance when the Ordinance specifically states Capital money CANNOT be used for regular maintenance?
Why is it Ok for the mayor to spend all available revenue and have nothing left over for Pay Go?
Why is it ok for the mayor to use all available revenue set money aside in Emergency funds YET BORROW money from the Banking Fund to road maintenance?
WHY IS IT OK FOR THE MAYOR TO INCREASE THE BANKING FUND CAP ??? AND USE ALL AVAILABLE MONEY IN THE BANKING FUND PUTTING US DEEPER IN DEBT??? THEN SAY HE PRESENTED A BALANCED BUDGET!
This $9 million was from refinancing the Banking Fund which by law should have gone to paying down the debt of the Banking Fund.
I know for a fact the Office of Economic Dev. was designing use of this money for their own functions and not that of the purpose of the DIA ... and said "they wanted to dedicate this money BEFORE city council got their hands on it"
This $9 million is OUR money NOT the DIA's and certainly not the OED's, OURS and I rather the city use it for Pay Go projects then borrow more money that has to be paid back with interest.
The DIA will get money when they have a plan...its a shame the Mayor took over 9 months to create legislation to hire a CEO and further shame it took an additional 5 months for the DIA to make a choice.
The way I understand it Aundrey Wallace has not yet signed a contract
Are our council member really able to be paid by a company like nefba? That idea alone should start a stampeed on the council chambers...if it doesnt ...we get what we deserve...
Quote from: icarus on August 09, 2013, 10:27:10 PM
So we have a well paid Downtown Czar with no kingdom. I wonder if the politicians actually expect him to do anything or if his appointment was simply a nod of sorts to appease those pushing for urban revitalization.
Regardless, this native is shaking his head in continued disappointment.
The DIA is creating a CRA/TIF so the director should have some $ to work with down the road....but the problem with hiring Wallace, is that I don't think he has much experience creating or managing a CRA, if any at all.
In answer to the question, "where does the DIA go from here?", we will continue on a methodical path to bring into this century a 32-year old Downtown Plan that previous Councils were not interested in updating. We will continue to promote and market new ideas and vet projects for their ability to leverage public seed money and the goals of redevelopment. We will bring projects to Council for funding scrutiny and approval.
We will also be talking with the 15 members of Council who didn't vote in favor of the transfer and we will welcome how ever many hundreds of Downtown supporters who wish to join us.
Personally, if I remove my DIA hat, I can accept the use of that money in support of libraries staying open. However, the smart redevelopment strategy would be to upgrade the Main Library on Hemming Plaza into a world-class multi-platform resource and keep it open 24-7, while we cull the underutilized resource-draining branches that need to be closed and sold as surplus property. And while we're at that, let's get our new, forward-thinking JTA Chief together with Aundra Wallace, to figure out a way to give everyone in Jax a ride to that 24-7 Downtown library.
Yeah, I know. Too pie-the-sky. Can't help it though. It's in my DNA.
I said from the beginning that this money would go to the suburbs in the end. I will never again trust the city when they talk about improving Downtown, not that I really have over the past decade. My mind is made up, I HATE HATE HATE some or these council members! At first it was just politically, but now it's personal. They cut the fund that would've allowed me to get around town easier, they give me substandard sidewalks to walk on, they allow bad drivers to park on said sidewalks, they allow bad drivers to run over pedestrians and cyclists. I can go on and on but why bother, why the fuck bother!
Its time for some kind of political coup!
QuoteWhat did you expect in this town? The Mayor won't submit a realistic budget and you have a large group of very vocal people against taxes in any shape, form, or fashion. They mayor is too busy worrying about re-election instead of what is best for the city even thought it is unpopular.
Where are all the "I'M WITH ALVIN" fans? :o
QuoteLiving in a city that hasn't been taken over by the Hogan Tea Party Fanatics.
;D
Secretly, it would appear Alvin is a closet Tea Party teetotaler, TEA does stand for Taxed Enough Already....must really grind on the Democrats who voted for him that he would rather not raise taxes for all that ails our great city. Run as a Democrat, govern as a Republican. Can't wait for the elections!
QuoteThats kind of a dumb summation. In case you havent noticed, the past forty years and been about tax and spendlicans and Me Too acrats.
The only thing dumb here is to talk about what has happened the last 40 years? That's ancient Ef'n history. Yet, every politician says what the "people" want to hear, then gets lost in office with their own BS agenda to keep them in office.
Still waiting for the list of accomplishments as compared to what "I'm With Alvin" ran on. If you want to defend him, defend his record and what he has accomplished.
MTRain what the hell are you talking about. You believe what you want about Dem vs Rep. I would rather vote for what I think would be a better politician than a bad politician, regardless of the party. Yes Alvin Brown has let me down a bit, but I still would vote for him any day over Hogan because I always vote. I am a Democrat that would vote for a Republican any day if such a politician happens to be a better choice. As for the Tea Party... think what you want about no government control. Maybe you know something that I don't know about a magic trick where they can pull revenue out of their ass. Clark is using his (government control) as much as he can and his motives are greedy and self serving. I see such behavior happen in all parties. If the city government (regardless of party) makes the wrong moves for 30 years and still continues to do the same thing, then shame of them. My vote counts and I don't forget. If it just so happens that a Repub could take this pathetic council's spot and do something different, then they got my vote.
QuoteMy vote counts and I don't forget.
Good, I am glad you won't forget. I'll make sure you never forget the shortcomings of your selection. His record speaks for itself.
QuoteThere will be another, and then we will have to do the same thing again.
This is true, we can agree on this. Looking forward to it!
I would like to see Lori Boyer on the ballot for Mayor. I have told her as much. ;) What impresses me most about her is the research she does on anything and everything that comes to her for a vote. I may not agree with all of her positions all of the time but I honestly believe that whatever choice she makes is one that is well thought and not driven by politics or fear.
Mtrain are you upset that a republican lost or Mike Hogan as a candidate?
Just to put a bit of perspective on the "Tea Party" thing. I posted the numbers on the "political poll" page a few days back. For all intensive purposed there is no real "Tea Party" influence in Jacksonville. There are only "20" members registered to that group in Jacksonville. All those rally's at the Landing were in essence mostly attended by extremely conservative Republicans who wanted to vent. It made for interesting reporting and drove a bunch of emotion but there was never any real influence exerted by the group here. Reports that they had any power to change the local political landscape were greatly overblown.
Whether you call them 'Tea Party' or the 'extremely conservative wing of the Republican party', they have plenty of power in Jacksonville, from what I can discern.
Vic, to your point, as far as a unified party effort they got nothing. When you factor in support from extremely conservative Republicans you have a shifting power structure behind them. In the last year there has clearly developed a love/hate dynamic between many Republicans and the Tea Party. Do they have enough influence to drive an election in Jacksonville? Clearly, they do not on their own.
Just one quick thought to add here. That clearly conservative/extremist element of the Republican party many feared is currently being felt in City Hall via Mayor Brown and his attitudes about finances and legislation. Consider the Mayor's position on taxes and GLBT issues. I think what people feared would happen inside city hall if a Conservative Republican was elected has happened anyway to some degree. Looked what happened with the 9 million. Having Brown in office so far has done nothing to create that vibrant downtown viability people hoped for so far. Had he known the ins and outs of governing he could have avoided many of the problems that have hurt his performance, from dissing the media, lack of transparency, inability to create a budget to ticking off the entire council Quite frankly, the political divide between him and the council is damaged to the point that he has members of the legislature poised to thwart most of his efforts for the remainder of his term. Everyone should take heed of what has happened in the city since the last round of elections and consider an open mind when if comes to filling the office of Mayor and Council.
Quote from: vicupstate on August 10, 2013, 07:36:54 PM
Whether you call them 'Tea Party' or the 'extremely conservative wing of the Republican party', they have plenty of power in Jacksonville, from what I can discern.
I am not so sure that you can put all of the opposition to tax increases on the Tea Party or Republicans. I suspect if you were to conduct a scientific survey, you'd find more than your fair share of democrats who would be opposed to any tax increase whatsoever.
Lots of interesting posts. Seems that we .. those of us working for a vibrant downtown, and some interesting transit solutions..... are losing....... again.
Continual losses over decades, in any environment or situation, indicates the existence of underlying factors or pressures which have not been addressed and resolved. Will the upcoming elections, if persuaded via voting to our cause, be enough to force significant gains for revitalizing the core?
Or are there other factors, hidden perhaps, which must also be addressed so that solid progress can be made toward vibrancy and infill?
Until the city council and all their constituents are educated to the fact that a vibrant city core will greatly benefit "all" citizens in northeast Florida, and until strong leadership exists in the mayor's office and in city council, there will be continued stagnation in the effort to achieve vibrancy and infill in our city core. In this stagnation scenario, "nothing" happens as long as politicking continues to displace true leadership.
I think that Alvin Brown is anti tax in one regard which is he does not want to be the one directly responsible for a tax hike. However, I don't think he minds one bit a hike that comes as the result of council action or even a tax under the name of a "fee" which we saw when Peyton was in office. For him it's a political maneuver. It's odd really to think that being anti tax might have stopped Hogan from being elected while at the same time Brown was claiming to be anti tax as well. lol At times like this it is good to have a sense of humor about Jacksonville politics and politicians. In anycase, Brown is now in the drivers seat and says he will not raise taxes and is talking about cutting the gas tax as well on top of the mess with regard to the millage rate. Not sure what kind of governing this is.
Quote from: stephendare on August 10, 2013, 10:49:34 PM
Quote from: carpnter on August 10, 2013, 08:42:04 PM
Quote from: vicupstate on August 10, 2013, 07:36:54 PM
Whether you call them 'Tea Party' or the 'extremely conservative wing of the Republican party', they have plenty of power in Jacksonville, from what I can discern.
I am not so sure that you can put all of the opposition to tax increases on the Tea Party or Republicans. I suspect if you were to conduct a scientific survey, you'd find more than your fair share of democrats who would be opposed to any tax increase whatsoever.
no. you really can. the rank and file of jacksonville doesnt mind a tax increase as long as they see the benefit. Don't forget the Better Jacksonville Plan passed with favorable majorities and being anti tax cost Mike Hogan the election for mayor.
A little plagiarism Stephen?
From my July 15, 2013 post.
"Mayor Brown is right by trimming down first, forcing all departments to efficiency. Once taxpayers perceive that waste is eliminated, then most will look favorably at a needed tax increase. To gain support for new taxes, stupid projects, doomed to failure, must be avoided."
Quote from: ronchamblin on August 10, 2013, 09:33:20 PM
Lots of interesting posts. Seems that we .. those of us working for a vibrant downtown, and some interesting transit solutions..... are losing....... again.
Continual losses over decades, in any environment or situation, indicates the existence of underlying factors or pressures which have not been addressed and resolved. Will the upcoming elections, if persuaded via voting to our cause, be enough to force significant gains for revitalizing the core?
Or are there other factors, hidden perhaps, which must also be addressed so that solid progress can be made toward vibrancy and infill?
Until the city council and all their constituents are educated to the fact that a vibrant city core will greatly benefit "all" citizens in northeast Florida, and until strong leadership exists in the mayor's office and in city council, there will be continued stagnation in the effort to achieve vibrancy and infill in our city core. In this stagnation scenario, "nothing" happens as long as politicking continues to displace true leadership.
Great post. It is imperative that the MAYOR truly believe in the importance of revitilizing the core ansd be willing to provide the LEADERSHIP to do it. Brown either is paying lip service only, or is not sticking his neck out to get it done. If that were to continue for four more years, then JAX will fall even further behind. The mayor is very powerful in JAX, which is not the norm in the South. A visionary leader can bring along 'on the fence' council members.
Clark: Reallocating $9M from Downtown 'just a matter of time'Quote"It was just a matter of time," said Council member Richard Clark after Friday's meeting.
Clark introduced the motion.
"Everyone on the dais agreed, it was a matter of when," he said.
The money comes from City savings from refinancing more than $1 billion in bonds and was intended for the Downtown Investment Authority to use in its mission to revitalize Downtown.
Clark and Council member Robin Lumb, who was one of the four in support of the transfer, both said in March when the Council passed legislation to create the accounts that they wanted to see a plan from the authority before appropriating the money.
Finance members Clay Yarborough also supported Friday's action. Members Greg Anderson, Reggie Brown and John Crescimbeni voted against it.
Clark said he expected to see "a little bit of reaction" and backlash from the move, but that the authority in its current state "was never the intent" because it lacks autonomy. He mentioned how the City Office of Economic Development has taken the reins on negotiating several Downtown economic development deals.
full article: http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=540229
What amazes me is that the media is great getting the message out about the city council taking away the $9M, however when it comes to publicizing possible funding alternatives (after all isn't DÍA going to be allowed to levy taxes?)
QuoteThe Downtown Investment Authority now has to deal with the challenge it feared since its inception: Revitalizing the urban core without any sort of budget.
City Council's Finance Committee took the first steps last week toward yanking away the $9 million Mayor Alvin Brown had pegged for Downtown revitalization efforts. This afternoon, the DIA will hold a special meeting to discuss the situation and formalize a position.
"I think we need to reinforce to council the bad timing of reallocating these funds at this time, with the CEO coming on board next week," DIA Chairman Oliver Barakat said Tuesday. "We are doing everything that the enabling legislation asked the board to do, and at the same time, we're in the process of negotiating deals with potential developers who are concerned about the message. We can't have a 'Jekyll and Hyde' approach to Downtown revitalization. We need to be committed."
full article: http://m.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/morning-edition/2013/08/downtown-authority-chairman-we-cant.html?ana=e_jac_rdup&s=newsletter&ed=2013-08-14&u=TRw0oGj+1To03lfSCUuPGg02a8ea14&t=1376484117&r=full (http://m.bizjournals.com/jacksonville/blog/morning-edition/2013/08/downtown-authority-chairman-we-cant.html?ana=e_jac_rdup&s=newsletter&ed=2013-08-14&u=TRw0oGj+1To03lfSCUuPGg02a8ea14&t=1376484117&r=full)
Looks like a special meeting is underway. Wish there would have been more notice.
QuoteWednesday, August 14, 10:30 AM EDT
• The Downtown Investment Authority scheduled a special meeting at 2:30 p.m. today in the Lynwood Roberts Room at City Hall. The subject is the Downtown Economic Trust Fund, which the City Council Finance Committee voted to shift into another Council-controlled account. For information, call (904) 630-1979.
http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=540247
I was just there.
Seems like they have a lot of work ahead of them to get that money back.
So then nothing decided today I take it. :) Thanks for the update. Did the announce another meeting?
From today's meeting.
QuoteBy Steve Patterson
Jacksonville's Downtown Investment Authority needs to sell itself to the City Council – fast – to have a shot at getting through this year's budget crunch, members were told Wednesday.
"I've heard very little of what you're doing," Councilman Don Redman, whose district includes part of downtown, told the unpaid appointed board. "... You can understand why we're getting disillusioned with what you're doing."
It was the board's first meeting since the council Finance Committee last week voted to take back $9 million that had been set aside to encourage new downtown development.
The full council still has to act on the idea when it finalizes the city's 2014 budget next month. But the prospect of losing the cash has alarmed downtown advocates, who had expected the authority to be more visible when its first CEO, Aundra Wallace, starts work next week.
"We're in a really sensitive time," authority Chairman Oliver Barakat told the board. "To move this money at this time really impairs our ability [to pursue projects]. ... I don't think there's anyone in this room who thinks we can do what the community wants us to do without money."
By law, the authority can't spend the money freely until it completes a downtown plan that's still in progress. Some authority members saw a message in the vote.
"It seems like a statement directly at us," authority member Tony Allegretti told the group. "It seems like City Council looks at us like a part of the [mayor's] administration. I think this message was aimed at the administration."
The authority's nine-member board has five people appointed by Mayor Alvin Brown and four appointed by the council president.
But Councilwoman Lori Boyer cautioned against reading subtle meanings into the Finance vote. The council has millions of dollars of expenses to cover, she said, and may end up borrowing to meet some costs. The Finance vote was to move the downtown money to a reserve fund where it could be used to cover unspecified capital projects – pricey, long-lasting items like paving roads or buying fleets of police cars.
"I don't want you to personalize this exclusively as 'we are disappointed with the DIA,'" Boyer said.
"There's $9 million sitting in an account and your alternative is ... to borrow money and pay interest on it," Boyer said. "... In fairness, it was put in a contingency account. It's not gone. Capital projects could be downtown."
With no staff of its own, the authority has been relying on work by employees of the city's Office of Economic Development. Boyer said it's important for the board to make the case for whatever funding it needs before the Finance Committee reviews the Office of Economic Development's 2014 budget Aug. 22.
The board named two members – Barakat and Melody Bishop – to stay in contact with council members as liaisons, and agreed to meet about next steps.
Steve Patterson:
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-08-14/story/jacksonville-downtown-board-eyeing-steps-save-money-credibility#ixzz2c00ORI6R
So much for an independent authority. Really surprised how much support DT gets from the district's councilman ;)
Political manuevering is undermining the DIA before it even gets a chance to prove itself. The way this city is run would be comical if it weren't so serious. No wonder the Charleston SC candiate took himself out of the selection process for Executive Director.
If the city paves anymore of those crappy intersections also known as Laura/Forsyth, Laura/Adams, then downtown does not need the money. I'd rather have smooth asphalt to cover up the messes the city has made on St. Johns and Riverside.
Quote from: vicupstate on August 15, 2013, 06:50:10 AM
Political manuevering is undermining the DIA before it even gets a chance to prove itself. The way this city is run would be comical if it weren't so serious. No wonder the Charleston SC candiate took himself out of the selection process for Executive Director.
I'm guessing that there are some council members who aren't all that impressed with the hire of Wallace and I might agree with them...If they had truly hired a dynamic leader with a history of success in a similar downtown (or any downtown), I don't think the council would be as quick to yank it away.
Quote from: CityLife on August 15, 2013, 09:52:58 AM
Quote from: vicupstate on August 15, 2013, 06:50:10 AM
Political manuevering is undermining the DIA before it even gets a chance to prove itself. The way this city is run would be comical if it weren't so serious. No wonder the Charleston SC candiate took himself out of the selection process for Executive Director.
I'm guessing that there are some council members who aren't all that impressed with the hire of Wallace and I might agree with them...If they had truly hired a dynamic leader with a history of success in a similar downtown (or any downtown), I don't think the council would be as quick to yank it away.
I'm guessing if the Mayor and Council had better communication and rapport, the council wouldn't feel such a need to shut down his projects. But as long as the Mayor treats the council like an annoying and useless waste of time, and as long as council lives up to that description, we'll get nowhere.
I think it probably goes a little deeper than political gamesmanship, but I'm sure that too is a factor.
Our council is an annoying and useless waste of time!
Quote from: mtraininjax on August 15, 2013, 08:49:58 AM
I'd rather have smooth asphalt to cover up the messes the city has made on St. Johns and Riverside.
FYI...that's a JEA project on an FDOT roadway....and it should be much smoother when done soon
Quote from: Bridges on August 15, 2013, 10:00:28 AM
Quote from: CityLife on August 15, 2013, 09:52:58 AM
Quote from: vicupstate on August 15, 2013, 06:50:10 AM
Political manuevering is undermining the DIA before it even gets a chance to prove itself. The way this city is run would be comical if it weren't so serious. No wonder the Charleston SC candiate took himself out of the selection process for Executive Director.
I'm guessing that there are some council members who aren't all that impressed with the hire of Wallace and I might agree with them...If they had truly hired a dynamic leader with a history of success in a similar downtown (or any downtown), I don't think the council would be as quick to yank it away.
I'm guessing if the Mayor and Council had better communication and rapport, the council wouldn't feel such a need to shut down his projects. But as long as the Mayor treats the council like an annoying and useless waste of time, and as long as council lives up to that description, we'll get nowhere.
In my opinion that is what a lot of the ridiculousness of late stems from, which doesn't benefit anyone. Childish at best.
Quote from: tufsu1 on August 15, 2013, 10:43:05 AM
Quote from: mtraininjax on August 15, 2013, 08:49:58 AM
I'd rather have smooth asphalt to cover up the messes the city has made on St. Johns and Riverside.
FYI...that's a JEA project on an FDOT roadway....and it should be much smoother when done soon
Yes. Once they're done with the utilities work it will be completely resurfaced.
I'm beginning to understand why people speak so negatively about Mr. Redman.
But really, city council, its mighty damn convenient that you moved the downtown money right after the Executive Director was hired.
They haven't even completed the DT "study", (something this city seems infatuated with) and Ms. Boyer practically said that the DIA would have to justify every expense as it comes out of the kitty. Way to prioritize DT in the funding, city council.
The DIA has practically been nullified before they start.
I have friends who do not live DT, who know I follow local politics, (and they do not) and they ask me questions about what goes on with the city council, and about some things they hear on the news.
I also encourage (badger, berate) my friends to vote in local elections...
The moral of the story: regular people vote in elections, and word of mouth is always more potent than mass advertizing.
They (the council and mayor) should seriously beware how this looks... if the jax2025 study told us anything, it was that DT was on the minds of lots of people who do not live there- so how this plays out is going to have a lot to do with the next election.
This is the absolute best example I can show anyone as to why Downtown Jacksonville has been neglected for so many years. And why there is little light at the end of the tunnel for any significant movement otherwise. This is the poster child for failed leadership on many levels.
As I have noted before: "Status Quo has got to go" to see any real improvements. Not just in personnel but in the thought processes that lead to these kind of decisions. We are probably top heavy with too many boards & committees but that is what we tend to continue to foster. A white paper here, a twenty five year plan there and on and on with no real action.
This is a perfect reason any out of town business looking to locate in Jacksonville will not seriously consider our Downtown.
It does not have to be this way.
The real problem is not enough voters live Downtown to have any sway over the City Council or Mayor. As a group they are 'marginalized' and given short shrift on a regular basis.
I could have Bay Street turned into a vibrant 'have to be there' kind of local experience if only I were King for a Day... ;D
QuoteI could have Bay Street turned into a vibrant 'have to be there' kind of local experience if only I were King for a Day...
Shall we accept as this as your announcement beginning your campaign for Mayor in 2015?!! :D :D
From the Daily Record.
Quote
Thursday, August 15, 10:08 AM EDT
by David Chapman, Staff Writer
Days after a City Council committee diverted $9 million of Downtown-centric funds, members of the board charged with overseeing Downtown's revitalization determined how to react.
Members of the Downtown Investment Authority board met Wednesday in a special meeting to engage Council members, including members of the Finance Committee that Friday moved $9 million earmarked for Downtown to a capital projects account that potentially could be used for the fiscal 2013-14 City budget.
The committee is underway in its budget review for fiscal 2013-14 and members for some time have discussed the idea of redirecting the funds.
"I believe we need to send a message to City Council, let them know the work we are doing," said authority Chair Oliver Barakat.
Barakat said Council's action to move the money now "really impairs" the authority's work and attracting interest to Downtown.
Board members Kay Harper and Tony Allegretti expressed disappointment and surprise with the Council action.
"I wouldn't know what to think if I was a developer," Harper said.
In response, Harper said she supported "any and every step possible" to lobby Council to not adopt the recommendation to move the funds.
Another option suggested by Barakat and board member Melody Bishop was to draft a resolution to inform Council of its stance against potential fund reallocation and tell Council of the authority's accomplishments and approach.
Barakat offered to write the resolution and bring it to members Wednesday during the regularly scheduled authority meeting.
Not everyone was in agreement.
Board member Jim Bailey, publisher of the Financial News & Daily Record, said the proposed efforts were "a total waste of time." He said much work went into making the authority independent, but the board "has done everything in our power to dissolve that."
The board at its July meeting authorized the City Office of Economic Development to handle negotiations for six Downtown projects.
As part of Mayor Alvin Brown's reorganization, the office is to handle economic development in Duval County with the exception of Downtown, which is under the purview of the authority.
"I think we have more serious problems," he said, addressing the confidence level Council has with the authority. "Lobbying is not going to return that confidence to the DIA."
Barakat said one issue is authority staffing levels, or lack thereof.
The board selected Aundra Wallace as its CEO who will report to the board, but he begins Monday. Outside of Wallace, the authority has no dedicated staff and has been assisted by members of the economic development office.
Council member Don Redman, who represents parts of Downtown, said that discussion around City Hall is that the authority members "are losing your ability to operate" and Brown's administration is "taking charge" of what the board should be doing."
"If the other City Council members are getting fed the same thing I am getting fed, you can understand why we're getting disillusioned," he told board members.
Council member Lori Boyer regularly attends authority board meetings and told the group that, given massive budget gaps, to not personalize the decision to redirect the funds.
"Don't assume it's only based on 'oh, we're upset with something the DIA is doing,'" she said.
She suggested that a formal response in addition to individual discussions with Council members were probably in the authority's best interest.
"I would be pleading your case if you have a specific case to be made," she said.
dchapman@baileypub.com
This is all such bullcrap. INVEST in downtown, it's what makes Jacksonville. You might as well just tear the whole thing down otherwise. It's about whats been done already! This is could be an AMAZING city if we could allow the Brooklyn momentum to move through LaVilla, and it will if DOWNTOWN holds it's end of the bargain.
Ha, no way would anyone would vote for a booze seller in Jax.
(Although maybe they would vote for Jay Albertelli since he is prettier and younger than me.)
Plus the power structure would not take kindly to my somewhat abrupt nature.
This problem is systemic and not just the Mayor and/or City Council are to blame.
These boards are formed and then they hit the 'bureaucratic wall of BS' that slows their enthusiasm, and their goals get lost in the shuffle.
If this is how it will be then I suggest we put our efforts into something more useful.
If Jim Bailey is checking out I can assure you this is just the tip of the iceberg as to how bad things actually are.
Sad time to be a proponent of Downtown.
One example of how out of touch we are in getting things right is the fact that right now there are 900 or so Vietnam Veteran's having a convention at the Hyatt and no one in the city even acknowledges their visit. We should have done something, at least a thank you for coming and thank you for your service type of thing. Or the Mayor declares this Vietnam Veteran's Week or something. Things like that would be done automatically in another city. Here, nada.
It is a corollary for the lack of support to any small business owner in Downtown sees from our leadership. Kind of, "Oh you opened a business in DT? Good for you, good luck, see ya"
Oh well, life goes on.
Next subject...
as to the $9 million being taken from DIA....as the article above alludes, the Mayor's office had been angling from the beginning to control that...and have it in the Office of Economic Development
This is a perfect time for the DIA Board to show their mettle & flex some muscle.
Time to draw a 'line in the sand' and resign en mass. This would be a way to pressure the City Council to show their true intentions as to whether or not they are taking Downtown seriously.
Put up or shut up as it were.
Why not shake up the whole dynamic? Might be a way to turn this around.
Quote from: marksjax on August 15, 2013, 05:06:21 PM
This is a perfect time for the DIA Board to show their mettle & flex some muscle.
Time to draw a 'line in the sand' and resign en mass. This would be a way to pressure the City Council to show their true intentions as to whether or not they are taking Downtown seriously.
Put up or shut up as it were.
Why not shake up the whole dynamic? Might be a way to turn this around.
+100
Quote from: marksjax on August 15, 2013, 05:06:21 PM
This is a perfect time for the DIA Board to show their mettle & flex some muscle.
Time to draw a 'line in the sand' and resign en mass. This would be a way to pressure the City Council to show their true intentions as to whether or not they are taking Downtown seriously.
Put up or shut up as it were.
Why not shake up the whole dynamic? Might be a way to turn this around.
A similar action took place decades ago when the downtown merchant association disbanded in protest, that was one of several actions that led to the Jacksonvile Landing.
Quote from: marksjax on August 15, 2013, 05:06:21 PM
This is a perfect time for the DIA Board to show their mettle & flex some muscle.
Time to draw a 'line in the sand' and resign en mass. This would be a way to pressure the City Council to show their true intentions as to whether or not they are taking Downtown seriously.
Put up or shut up as it were.
Why not shake up the whole dynamic? Might be a way to turn this around.
+1000
Quote from: marksjax on August 15, 2013, 05:06:21 PM
This is a perfect time for the DIA Board to show their mettle & flex some muscle.
Time to draw a 'line in the sand' and resign en mass. This would be a way to pressure the City Council to show their true intentions as to whether or not they are taking Downtown seriously.
Put up or shut up as it were.
Why not shake up the whole dynamic? Might be a way to turn this around.
Mark, With all due respect the complete opposite happened at the 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting. I'm sitting right here looking at the agenda and it's not listed. At the very end of the almost 3 hour plus meeting Paul Crawford pulled out a document prepared by OED which is an Authorization to Negotiate and Engage on Various Downtown Projects and the DIA Board with the exception of Jim Bailey vote yes. Are you kidding me. Some members are seeing this for the first time.
You know who I feel sorry for are the USS Adams guys. If they had just stuck around they could have been put on the list. And how about the list.
Prior to this OED power play what were the reports in the media status about
Haydon Burns Library
Shipyards
Bostwick Building
2013-377 -Removal of Property Code Violations. Who were the big winners of this taxpayer windfall?
And a $25,000 dollar request jumps to $50,000 per business. How do you sign up for this stuff.
After months of attending DIA meetings and just prior to the RFI, RFP of Shipyards and sitting next to Scott Wilson I ask right after the River City Challenge pictures if someone pulled up to the floating dock that is right now on the Shipyards property can it be used for personal or commercial use and the answer back from Tony Allegretti and Paul Crawford was NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO,
Ram dock only open when RAM is open. That is positive.
Palms Fish Camp- A million bucks and you never even open the door. That is positive.
Does anyone remember John Culbreath?
Aundra Wallace ( I feel sorry for the man already) He'll be leading the ribbon cutting ceremonies on projects that he had nothing to do with.
The city council pulling the money is the right thing to do.
Doesn't DIA now have control over all the Parking revenue?
If yes. Isn't that seed money that is supposed to fund the DIA along with other revenue generators?
Quote from: mtraininjax on August 15, 2013, 08:49:58 AM
If the city paves anymore of those crappy intersections also known as Laura/Forsyth, Laura/Adams, then downtown does not need the money. I'd rather have smooth asphalt to cover up the messes the city has made on St. Johns and Riverside.
Those crappy intersections are doing EXACTLY what they were designed to do... SLOW EVERYONE THE HELL DOWN! Our city streets are wide by many city's standards and the main ones, Main, Bay, Forsyth etc... Have become racetracks making it a chore to cross the street. Sometimes the pavement and the lights are timed to STOP or SLOW the traffic flow, something that needs to be done around FSCJ.
This would be my preferred method of installing BUS RAPID TRANSIT. Brick or stone pavers in the bus lane with runways at the width of the bus tires. Bus rides smooth and cars don't, car's CAN use the bus lanes if they need to, but for the most part will avoid them, allowing free/faster movement of the buses. Think Atlantic, San Jose, Philips, Lem Turner etc.
(http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa111/Ocklawaha/Transporte%20Bus%20Truck%20HIGHWAY/BRT-busway_1_3_zps58eea8ff.png)
iMAGE: Imagine his is a full width city street with 4 lanes and a center turn lane, the two
bus lanes are paved with brick or stone except for these pictured bus runways you see in this photo. Instant passive traffic control. Wide open bus lanes with fast moving buses.
NOTE TO JTA, TERMINATE THAT NORTH BRT LINE AT THE AIRPORT. TIME TO PULL OUR HEADS OUT.
Gutting the DIA, first from the Mayor's office NOT allowing the Board to operate as an independent agency as it was designed, and second, from the Council removing its funds, takes a major tool for redevelopment off the table. So we have a new Director starting Monday, with nothing to direct.
Over the past 40 plus years of consolidation, there have been some FUBAR incidents, but nothing as consistent on so many levels as has happened over the past few years. Of course, what is missing now is leadership at the top. Don't for an independent agency if you are not going to allow it to function. With the coming loss of the gas tax for roads, the inability to resolve the pension issues, the hardened position on not raising revenue which will lead to the loss of libraries and other services, we are in for some tough times.
Noone,
Thank you for the insight and for actually attending and reporting what has happened at these meetings.
Hats off to you for that effort!
So, if I understand correctly The City Council might be leery of funding the DIA because of the control exhibited by the OED so far? Is that what you are feeling?
I am not sure of the specific chain of command with regards to DIA, OED and the Mayor's Office.
If DIA is indeed separate or supposed to be autonomous of OED then I can see their concern.
On the other hand, since DIA has not had an Executive Director yet it may be there is nothing for them to really do and they are not in a position to yet question OED's authority in such matters.
Plus five (is it?) board members were appointed by the Mayor so some may be willing to 'go along to get along'.
OED is the new JEDC if I am not mistaken. If DIA is subservient to OED then other than creating a new agency and changing the names nothing has really changed from the previous arrangement.
Which begs the question why even go to the trouble of creating DIA in the first place?
We can at least stop speculating about whether or not the DIA would go ahead with the hire of Wallace. Today is his first day on the job. Here are his basic statements about what he plans to do. He remarks about the Laura Street Trio being a good thing (who knew). lol He then spoke about meeting with "stakeholders", presumably those with money or property downtown. I will be interested to see if his version of stakeholders includes all folks interested in a vibrant downtown. He then spoke about taking
three month's to create an executive plan for downtown. Not sure what the term "executive" plan means. Is he talking about what he thinks the executive efforts for DIA need to be or about a plan to revitalize? Again, this we will have to wait and see.
Quote
Monday was the first day on the job for the Jacksonville Downtown Investment Authority's new CEO Aundra Wallace.
WJCT
Credit Kevin Meerschaert
Jacksonville Downtown Investment Authority Board Chair Oliver Barakat and CEO Aundra Wallace meet with reporters Monday, Wallace's first day on the job.
He sat down for nearly an hour with local reporters to discuss his vision for redevelopment.
Wallace says his first priority is to sit down and talk to current stakeholders. He also expects to take about three months to come up with an executive plan for the agency.
Wallace was previously executive director of the Detroit Land Bank Trust, which oversaw numerous redevelopment projects in that city. He says he's looking forward to focusing on the downtown area.
Wallace is hopeful the recently announced plans to redevelop the so-called Laura Street Trio for hotel and retail space will come to fruition. He says the redevelopment could be the springboard for other projects
http://news.wjct.org/post/new-dia-ceo-talks-redevelopment-laura-street-trio#.UhJ2QiyosPA.facebook
I want to like, support, have faith in the "new" guy, I really do. I think new blood and new thoughts can only result in a positive outcome. However, when the first action is to do another study and make another plan, when there are umpteen sitting on the bookshelf puts a sour taste in my mouth. Hopefully he'll have some kool aid in a few months to wash that out.
Quote from: JayBird on August 19, 2013, 06:29:18 PM
I want to like, support, have faith in the "new" guy, I really do. I think new blood and new thoughts can only result in a positive outcome. However, when the first action is to do another study and make another plan, when there are umpteen sitting on the bookshelf puts a sour taste in my mouth. Hopefully he'll have some kool aid in a few months to wash that out.
Sounds all to familiar. Along with the philanthropic community shoring up city investments. Right now with the 9 million pulled for downtown, the only thing that money has been allotted for is the salary of Mr. Wallace, that's it, a one man show with a board. I guess all he can do is make another plan. I want to remain hopeful and give this all a chance but right now I am just not "feeling" it. I will be happy to be wrong in this case.
^I believe they are legally required to do a CRA plan. We haven't had one done for downtown in 30 years.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on August 19, 2013, 06:33:16 PM
I will be happy to be wrong in this case.
+100
Same here
Quote from: thelakelander on August 19, 2013, 06:36:37 PM
^I believe they are legally required to do a CRA plan. We haven't had one done for downtown in 30 years.
Important info Ennis. Can such a plan be done in three month's by one man? If not the DIA who would be responsible for the new CRA?
The city hired a consultant to do it.
I see. Any idea what the time frame is for the CRA?
I think its important that everyone give Mr. Wallace a little bit of a grace period to get acclimated, meet stakeholders, crunch numbers, study the trends and demographics, and all the little things that someone in this role does outside of the public eye. He's going to have a slow learning curve before he becomes THE expert on downtown and frankly he shouldn't (and probably wouldn't want to) make any major decisions before he gets to that level of understanding.
I know I said earlier that council may have been overeager to yank the $9 million because he doesn't have a proven record of success in a similar role, but that doesn't mean he isn't capable of getting things done. I know I'm rooting for him.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on August 19, 2013, 07:10:15 PM
I see. Any idea what the time frame is for the CRA?
the plan is well underway....I would assume it should be finished sometime early next year
Quote from: thelakelander on August 19, 2013, 07:00:20 PM
The city hired a consultant to do it.
The city? So is that that Tony Robbins? And then is a lot of this CRA the rehash then of our 2007 Downtown Action Plan that was with Ron Barton? just asking.
Quote from: Cheshire Cat on August 19, 2013, 06:53:36 PM
Quote from: thelakelander on August 19, 2013, 06:36:37 PM
^I believe they are legally required to do a CRA plan. We haven't had one done for downtown in 30 years.
Important info Ennis. Can such a plan be done in three month's by one man? If not the DIA who would be responsible for the new CRA?
Quote from: marksjax on August 16, 2013, 12:41:05 PM
Noone,
Thank you for the insight and for actually attending and reporting what has happened at these meetings.
Hats off to you for that effort!
So, if I understand correctly The City Council might be leery of funding the DIA because of the control exhibited by the OED so far? Is that what you are feeling?
I am not sure of the specific chain of command with regards to DIA, OED and the Mayor's Office.
If DIA is indeed separate or supposed to be autonomous of OED then I can see their concern.
On the other hand, since DIA has not had an Executive Director yet it may be there is nothing for them to really do and they are not in a position to yet question OED's authority in such matters.
Plus five (is it?) board members were appointed by the Mayor so some may be willing to 'go along to get along'.
OED is the new JEDC if I am not mistaken. If DIA is subservient to OED then other than creating a new agency and changing the names nothing has really changed from the previous arrangement.
Which begs the question why even go to the trouble of creating DIA in the first place?
Mark, swung by your place yesterday and will again. JEDC is OED. DIA is Mayor Brown.
9 members of a new Board.
$9,000,000. Play money.
$5,300,000. Historic Preservation Trust Fund money.
$14,300,000 of total play money.
At the last DIA Board meeting 7/24/13 the OED got the DIA Board to vote and approve all the spending of the $14,300,000 on certain specified projects. The document was amended with the direction of Board member Mike Saylor. I didn't catch all the additions and deletions. And again this was done right before the new guy Aundra Wallace starts.
I believe there is something to this go along to get along. That 7/24/13 DIA Board meeting was something to witness. I feel for Ben Harris with Intuition Ale and for not being given the opportunity to move forward with his dream of a new business and location on the Shipyards without any city incentives compared to what transpired at this meeting.
As for why even create a DIA in the first place I believe it's to create boundaries. And in those boundaries you can do certain things. So what an opportunity to pick and choose the winners and losers.
As for me the heartburn comes from knowing that this new 20 square mile Authority Zone has the St. Johns River our American Heritage River a FEDERAL Initiative running through the middle of it. What does a Joe Q. Public do when being blown off by your elected legislative representatives? Will have so much more on this.
To Mr. Aundra Wallace I say "Welcome To Jacksonville" Allow me to show you Downtown from the Waterway.
As for the title of this thread "Money for Downtown diverted in order to Restore The Public Trust"
Quote from: Noone on August 20, 2013, 01:57:33 AM
Quote from: thelakelander on August 19, 2013, 07:00:20 PM
The city hired a consultant to do it.
The city? So is that that Tony Robbins? And then is a lot of this CRA the rehash then of our 2007 Downtown Action Plan that was with Ron Barton? just asking.
well actually the City selected the Prosser Hallock team to do the CRA plan....and Tony Robbins works there
and as for rehashing the 2007 JEDC plan...that was merely a list of action items that brought the 2000 downtown plan down to a more edible size....I think we can all agree that much has changed in how we live, work, and play since 2000 (and even since 2007).
this plan will need to focus on projects that can be done over the short-term as well as long-term and that may be funded in part with tax increment financing.
^We can all agree that much has changed in how we live, work, and play since 2000 (and even since 2007) and please tell me the positives especially from the Waterways in our new highly restricted DIA zone. Ram dock only open when RAM is open.
The total shutdown by the Fun committee of the DIA's Downtown Experience Committee when asking about the existing floating dock at Shipyards III. Scott Wilson you were sitting right next to me on this. Now you are in charge of Waterways. Why?
Ben - JCCI we need to kayak Downtown before 2025
What are we trying to measure and Transform again?
They really should not need to repave any roads, since the Better Jacksonville Plan took care of all of that.... :P
Most of the money was used to purchase some fire trucks. Council may return some of what's left.
QuoteJacksonville council panel uses part of downtown money for fire trucks, looks to return some
A Jacksonville City Council committee set the stage Friday to restore up to $4.1 million to the Downtown Investment Authority after using a few million more to replace aging fire trucks and city cars.
Downtown advocates said efforts of the startup agency would be hobbled, but not hopeless, if it could recover a chunk of the $9 million it was awarded early in the year.
Read more at Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2013-08-30/story/jacksonville-council-panel-uses-part-downtown-money-fire-trucks-looks#ixzz2dZuoxduO