Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-02-13 - City Commission Regular Meeting MinutesCITY OF TAMARAC REGULAR CITY COMMISSION MEETING WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco called the regular meeting of the City Commission to order on Wednesday, February 13, 2008, at 7:00 pm at the Tamarac Community Center, 8601 W Commercial Boulevard, Tamarac, FL and thanked staff for setting up the equipment so that the meeting could be held at the Tamarac Community Center, bringing the meeting to the public. PRESENT: Mayor Beth Flansbaum-Talabisco, Commissioner Patte Atkins -Grad, and Commissioner Harry Dressler. ABSENT: Vice Mayor Marc L. Sultanof and Commissioner Edward C. Portner. ALSO PRESENT: City Manager Jeffrey L. Miller, City Attorney Samuel S. Goren, and City Clerk Marion Swenson. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Commissioner Dressler led the pledge of allegiance. 1. PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS: There were no proclamations/presentations to be read into the record. REPORTS 2. City Commission: Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco congratulated Commissioner Dressler on becoming certified by the Supreme Court of Florida as a mediator for the State Court. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said yesterday was "Bring A Friend Day" for the Kiwanis Club and six new members were added to the club. The City and the Chamber of Commerce are collecting sneakers for the current project, Christmas in July, to help underprivileged children. The Chamber has donated a room in their office to store the shoes. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco attended the U.S. Conference of Mayors' Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C. and brought back the Mayor's 10 Point Plan (a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated as part of these minutes). The biggest issue discussed was the mortgage crisis, and the Mayor of Trenton, New Jersey put out a white paper on this topic (a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated as part of these minutes). At the March retreat the Mayor and City Commission will discuss the foreclosure issue. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco received from the U.S. Conference of Mayors an executive directors' staff analysis of the President's FY09 budget request and how that will affect the cities (a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated as part of these minutes). Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco reported that Chicago is on the short list to host the Olympics in 2016. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said she spoke with Vice Mayor Sultanof this evening and we all wish Mrs. Sultanof well. Commissioner Atkins -Grad acknowledged the work staff does to set up for the off campus meetings. Commissioner Atkins -Grad reported on the Sheriffs Office special ceremony honoring its fallen heroes; the three widows, as well as Maury Hernandez February 13, 2008 Page 1 of 8 received medals. February is Black History Month, and Commissioner Atkins -Grad attended a Jamaican Cultural Celebration last week; Commissioner Atkins -Grad urged everyone to take a moment to note the artwork in the lobby, as we leave the Tamarac Community Center this evening. ArtServe held a special event at City Hall this past week, with exhibits from black artists. Yesterday Commissioners Atkins -Grad and Dressler, and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Recreation Center on University Drive, and Commissioner Atkins -Grad said it will be a great asset to Tamarac. Commissioner Dressler said the groundbreaking for the new Recreation Center was a wonderful event. Commissioner Dressler said he is on the District VII Community Council and they are looking for different ways to make residents aware that BSO provides law enforcement services for Tamarac. Our police force, BSO District VII, is committed to our City 24 hours a day. In 2007 there were 1,800 service calls in District Four. Crime statistics from 2006 — 2007 are down 50% in Tamarac and there were no robberies in District 4 in 2007. We need to learn more about how to prevent crime. The non emergency number for BSO is 954-765-4321. Commissioner Dressler said he is happy to see everybody at tonight's meeting. 3. City AttorneyL. City Attorney Goren reported that the Broward County Charter Review Board is winding down its process and there will be public hearings on March 12 and April 9 at the Government Center. The proposal for fire rescue council modification failed. If the redistricting mechanism for the County Commission passes it will require an independent consultant to professionally draw the districts. The ethics issue, creating a Broward County Ethics Commission to draft an ethics code for Broward County passed. 4. City Manager: City Manager Miller reported the Housing Division became a full member of the Community Development Task Force in Broward County. During the first quarter of this year $250,000 was spent in Tamarac on housing assistance to residents. At the Special Magistrate Hearing of February 6, 2008, 15 cases were heard resulting in $2,000 in fines levied. This is an adjunct to our Code Enforcement Board. We are stepping up Code activities in the community. We realized a net revenue of $4,000 in the sale of surplus computers and telephones, which were sold via Internet Auction, and this is in addition to the donations provided to our local schools. Over 300 people attended the February Tamarac Twilight Concert; the next concert is scheduled for March 14 at the Sports Complex, from 7:00 p.m. — 9:00 p.m. Over one hundred 6th 71h, and 8th graders attended the Movin' and Groovin' dance. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 5. Joe Schreiber, 10504 E. Clairmont Circle, spoke in opposition to Item 6(f) on the consent agenda, and questioned how much money the City would have brought in without the lobbyists. Former Mayor Schreiber asked for a list of our investments. City Manager Miller said staff is working on a memo, which should be available in two weeks, describing how the funds are segregated and what is available to the Mayor and City Commission for capital projects. Former Mayor Schreiber spoke of reserves in the budget. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said the over the past five years we have secured February 13, 2008 Page 2 of 8 approximately $11.9 million with the help of our lobbyists, and the cost to the City was approximately $665,000. Commissioner Dressler said we have received a good return on our money. Ben Roberts, 5002 NW 58 Street, spoke of the recent tax increase item on the ballot and the fact that Tamarac is in a better position than many other cities. Mr. Roberts said he is against outsourcing Utility functions. Rose Grove, 5907 NW 69 Avenue spoke about changing a road to a one-way street due to speeding. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco suggested Ms. Grove speak with Commissioner Atkins -Grad, who is represents Ms. Grove's district. Barbara McNeil, 6961 NW 82" d Court, asked the City to institute free self defense programs for seniors at the Tamarac Community Center and then bring the programs to the larger homeowner and condominium complexes. City Manager Miller said we are currently targeting two age groups, seniors and younger children, for this type of program, and should have something put together in the near future. Marian DeBonis, 8557 NW 80 Street asked for an update on Mr. Schmidt and the Woodmont Country Club and also asked for an update on how the impact of the tax reform on City of Tamarac residents. City Manager Miller said regarding the property tax reform issue, the City of Tamarac's loss to the general fund is $2.2 million. In 2007 revenue streams were frozen and capped, with the exception of new growth, and the net effect of both of these total about a $6 - $7 million loss overall for the last two years. Tamarac made a number of sacrifices last year; and he believes we are in a good position for next year and we will not need to raise taxes. Over the next 4-5 years, unless there are changes in the laws, we will see some service reductions, but cuts to police and fire services will be a last resort. We hope not to lay off staff during the next year. Regarding Woodmont, there is nothing to report. Since the last hearing, we have not seen Mr. Schmidt or Dr. Jarmin. They have not filed any applications with the City and we are working with them on code issues. Burton Schneider, 8016, NW 72 Street, said he would like more code enforcement at Woodmont. City Manager Miller said Code Enforcement has cited the country club and there have been some improvements. Commissioner Dressler said over the past two years there have been numerous promises and he is working closely with staff on this issue. We have been able to identify the main median at 78th and University at the entrance as the responsibility of the country club. Southgate Boulevard is a disgrace and he is in constant communication with staff regarding the timeline for enforcement. His current understanding is there is a February 15th deadline regarding Southgate, and he would like to get an update on this on February 16th. With regard to Former Mayor Schreiber's comment about the lobbyist, lobbyists do serve a purpose. Mr. Schneider spoke of two incidents wherein children from the elementary school were wandering the street when they should have been in the after care program. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said Commissioner Dressler would talk to Principal Seiler in the morning. City Manager Miller congratulated BSO with regard to their handling of this February 13, 2008 Page 3 of 8 issue. Commissioner Dressler commended Burt and Ellie Schneider for their involvement in the community. Bernie Herman, 7877 Granville Drive asked how the Main Street project would be funded. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco said we are pursuing other options to address Main Street; the vision is still there. City Manager Miller said over the last eight years there has been considerable planning activity along NW 57t" Street. We amended the comprehensive plan, did a marketing study, rezoned property to a MXD Use, and had a development standard prepared by a private consultant, RMK Associates. Since the issue with the assessment of the district, we are reviewing the Main Street project and revisiting the plans. We will make adjustments but we will not abandon the project. Not only will it be an excellent opportunity for shopping and restaurants and activities for all to enjoy, but also a boon for residents for taxation, as commercial property pays more than residential. Commissioner Dressler said people misunderstood the financing of Main Street. People think the City will be involved in the building of Main Street; it is on land mostly owned by private parties who will finance the development. The only financial involvement on the part of the City was setting up a special assessment district. City Manager Miller explained the initial idea behind the special assessment district was to get everything built at one time, but we have since decided not to move in that direction. For the immediate future, as each project comes in, they will have to pay their impact fees on their own utilities and it will not fall to the general taxpayers. Debbie Fleischman, 8612 NW 79 Street spoke of the importance of information brought to homeowner associations and said the community is behind the City with regard to Mr. Schmidt. We need to push forward with Code Enforcement. Ms. Fleischman confirmed if Main Street is built the taxes would go to the City of Tamarac. Ms. Fleischman questioned the Temple purchase and City Manager Miller said there has been no final decision yet. The matter will come before the Mayor and City Commission in the next four -six weeks. Ms. Fleischman spoke of teenagers congregating at Main Street once it is built and City Manager Miller said the elementary and middle schools are required to keep students on campus; however the high schools do not have to follow this requirement. There have been incidents at the Publix on Commercial Boulevard, but since BSO was called, there have been no further problems. CONSENT AGENDA 6. Commissioner Dressler seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval of all items on the consent agenda. On roll call Commissioner Atkins -Grad voted "yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. a. APPROVE the minutes of the January 23, 2008 Regular City Commission meeting. APPROVED b. APPROVE the minutes of the January 28, 2008 Special City Commission meeting. APPROVED C. PURCHASE OF REPLACEMENT VEHICLES: (TR11339) Purchasing replacement vehicles utilizing the Florida Sheriffs Association Bid 07-15-0827; authorizing an expenditure in an amount not to exceed $46,428; declaring certain February 13, 2008 Page 4 of 8 1 equipment as surplus and directing that equipment be disposed via sale through established internet markets to be selected; placing all proceeds into the appropriate fund from which the assets were originally purchased; authorizing budget transfers as needed for proper accounting purposes. RESOLUTION NO. R2008- 7 d. EASEMENT FOR TAMARAC SPORTS COMPLEX EXPANSION PROJECT: (TR11343) Granting a perpetual easement to Florida Power and Light for the installation of underground utility facilities at the Tamarac Sports Complex Expansion Project located at 9901 NW 77th Street; authorizing and directing the City Clerk to record said agreement in the public records of Broward County. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-8 e. URGING MEMBERS OF THE FLORIDA LEGISLATURE TO SUPPORT THE FLORIDA LEAGUE OF CITIES PRIORITY ISSUES DURING THE 2008 LEGISLATIVE SESSION: (TR11352) Urging members of the Florida Legislature to support the Florida League of Cities priority issues during the 2008 legislative session, authorizing the City Clerk to distribute copies of the adopted Resolution to Governor Charlie Crist, Senate President Ken Pruitt, House Speaker Marco Rubio, State Senator Jeremy Ring, State Representatives John P. Seiler, Matthew Meadows, James W. Waldman, Ari Porth and the Florida League of Cities. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-9 f. AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF TAMARAC AND FERGUSON GROUP FOR FEDERAL LOBBYING SERVICES: (TR11348) Awarding LOI #08-07L and executing an agreement between the City of Tamarac and the Ferguson Group providing for Federal Lobbying Services for a two (2) year period. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-10 g. MUNICIPAL COMPETITIVE GRANT PROGRAM FUNDS FOR THE HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS AND TRAINING PROJECT: (TR11344) Submitting an application to the Florida Department of Community Affairs for Emergency Management Preparedness and Assistance Trust Fund (EMPATF) Municipal Competitive Grant program funds for the Hurricane Preparedness and Training project in the amount of $50,000 providing for a 2 to 1 cash and in -kind match of $100,270 in local funds for a total project cost of $150,270 in the event of approval of the application; providing for acceptance of the award and executing of documents upon approval. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-11 END OF CONSENT AGENDA REGULAR AGENDA ORDINANCES — FIRST READINGS There are no ordinances scheduled for first reading. February 13, 2008 Page 5 of 8 PUBLIC HEARINGS 7:00 P.M. OR THEREAFTER ORDINANCE — SECOND READING 7. AMENDING CHAPTER 2 OF THE TAMARAC CODE — CHANGING NAME OF BUILDING AND CODE COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT: (TO2156) Motion to adopt Ordinance on second reading amending Chapter 2 of the City of Tamarac Code of Ordinances, entitled "Administration", by amending Article IV, entitled "Departments"; specifically amending Division 1 entitled "Generally", by amending Section 2-235 entitled "Establishment of certain departments and offices"; changing the Building and Code Compliance Department name; providing for codification. City Attorney Goren read Temporary Ordinance 2156 on second reading by title. Commissioner Dressler seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval. Building and Code Compliance Director Jones gave a presentation. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco opened the public hearing and Former Mayor Schreiber, 10504 E. Clairmont Circle, questioned the new name of the department. Building and Code Compliance Director Jones said it would be known as the Building Department. With no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco closed the public hearing. On roll call Commissioner Dressler voted "yes", Commissioner Atkins -Grad "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. ADOPTED ON FIRST READING JANUARY 23, 2008 ADOPTED ON SECOND READING FEBRUARY 13, 2008 ORDINANCE NO. 0-2008-2 QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS 8. AMENDING PRIOR ZONING -- SR DALE CENTER: (TO2157) Motion to adopt Ordinance on first reading amending prior zoning of certain real estate property otherwise known as SR Dale Center From B-1 (Neighborhood Business District) to B-2 (Community Business District), located at 6455 West Commercial Boulevard specifically Parcel "C" of the Commercial Boulevard Lands according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 105 Page 34 of the Public Records of Broward County, Florida (Case No. 7-Z-07); providing for amendment of the official zoning map to reflect such change. City Attorney Goren read Temporary Ordinance 2157 on first reading by title. Commissioner Dressler seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval. City Attorney Goren said Items 8 and 9 on the agenda could be considered together but voted on separately. City Attorney Goren read Temporary Resolution 11341 by title. Commissioner Dressler seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval. Designated Agent Graham Penn, Esq., 200 S. Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, FL, waived the quasi-judicial rights on behalf of the applicant. Community Development Director Bramley gave a presentation. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco asked if the applicant purchased or is renting the property and Community Development Director Bramley said the proposed restaurant is a lessee of the property but since there was a discontinuance of occupancy the process must be gone through. City Attorney Goren explained this could be considered a break in service so the applicant no longer has the protection given before the break occurred. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco expressed concern regarding the landscaping and Community Development Director Bramley said this type of special exception provides the opportunity for the City to work with the February 13, 2008 Page 6 of 8 L applicant. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned the hours of operation and Mr. Penn said Wednesday —Thursday 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.; Friday —Saturday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.; Sunday 11:00 a.m.-11.00 p.m. Mr. Penn gave a presentation. Commissioner Dressler expressed concern regarding the appearance of the property and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned the length of the lease. City Clerk Swenson swore in the applicant, agent, staff and any affected parties that may wish to speak. Mr. Penn and Community Development Director Bramley reaffirmed their testimony. Tony Singh, Manager of the Restaurant said the lease is for seven years. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked if he had other restaurants in Broward County or South Florida and Mr. Singh said there is one in Orlando and one in New York City. Commissioner Atkins - Grad said the menu seems to have something for everybody and asked if the other businesses in the center would remain. Mr. Singh said they would. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked what kind of marketing is being done and Mr. Singh replied local newspapers and a '/2 hour television program on Comcast. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco suggested Mr. Singh become involved with the Chamber of Commerce and she hoped he would reach out to the surrounding communities. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked if other bars/restaurants in the City are open until 2:00 a.m. and Community Development Director Bramley said there have been some permits issued. The City will hold the restaurant directly responsible for performing the improvements listed and will not issue a full certificate of occupancy for the property until the improvements are in the works and fully inspected. Commissioner Dressler asked about repairing the sidewalk and Community Development Director Bramley said the applicant has agreed to areas of curbing and wheel stops. The conditions of approval run with the use of the property. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned serving in the outside area and Community Development Director Bramley said there would be service but no outside entertainment. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco opened the public hearing. Joel Davidson, 4608 Norfolk Island Drive, questioned the number of seats and ingress/egress. Mr. Penn said the restaurant would seat 200 and Community Development Director Bramley said ingress/egress would remain the same. Debbie Fleischman, 8612 NW 79 Street, questioned parking and Community Development Director Bramley said the restaurant is currently there, open and operating. It is a permitted use in a B-1 District. Commissioner Dressler asked if the City has the authority to revoke or restrict the use should the full service bar become a nuisance and City Attorney Goren said yes. Former Mayor Schreiber, 10504 E. Clairmont Circle, questioned the square footage of the restaurant and the name. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco said it is De Pirates Bay and Community Development Director Bramley said it is 6,500 sq. ft. Mr. Penn certified the applicant can live with and supports the conditions of approval. With no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco closed the public hearing. On roll call for Item No. 8, Commissioner Atkins -Grad voted "yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. ADOPTED ON FIRST READING — FEBRUARY 13, 2008 9. SPECIAL EXCEPTION — TO ALLOW OPERATION OF A BAR WITHIN A FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT: (TR11341) Motion to approve Resolution approving a Special Exception to allow for the operation of an accessory bar within a full service restaurant located at 6455 West Commercial Boulevard, specifically Parcel "C of Commercial Boulevard Lands, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book February 13, 2008 Page 7 of 8 105 Page 34 of the Public Records of Broward County, Florida (Case No. 6-Z-07). On roll call for Item No. 9 Commissioner Dressler voted "yes", Commissioner Atkins -Grad "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-12 10. REVISED DEVELOPMENT ORDER AND MAJOR REVISED SITE PLAN — WESTPOINT RETAIL PLAZA: (TR11342) Motion to approve Resolution issuing Revised Development Order No. 315.16 and granting Major Revised Site Plan approval for Westpoint Retail Plaza to allow for the construction of a 3,200 square foot free standing building for medical office use with associated landscaping improvements, for the Westpoint Plaza Project located at the northeast corner of Commercial Boulevard and Hiatus Road, specifically that portion of Tract "D", Westpoint Section 1 Plat, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 162, Page 23 of the Public Records of Broward County, Florida. (Case No. 30-SP-07); providing for conditions of approval. City Attorney Goren read Temporary Resolution 11342 by title. Commissioner Dressler seconded by Commissioner Atkins -Grad moved approval. Mr. Butters waived his quasi-judicial rights. Community Development Director Bramley gave a presentation. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco asked what type of medical facility it would be and Community Development Director Bramley said a walk-in medical center. Malcolm Butters, 6820 Lyons Circle, Coconut Creek, gave a presentation. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned the hours of operation and Mr. Butters said he believed 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco asked if Rotelli's would be open on Sundays and Mr. Butters said yes. Commissioner Dressler said it appears to be a quality Butters project. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco opened the public hearing. Former Mayor Schreiber, 10504 E. Clairmont Circle, asked if it is a leased facility and how many stories. Mr. Butters said it is a one-story facility and it is leased. With no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco closed the public hearing. On roll call Commissioner Dressler voted "yes", Commissioner Atkins -Grad "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. RESOLUTION NO. R2008-13 END OF -QUASI-JUDICIAL HEARINGS END OF PUBLIC HEARINGS There being no further business to come before the Mayor and City Commission, Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco adjourned the meeting at 9:20 p.m. Marion Swenson, `CMC City Clerk February 13, 2008 Page 8 of 8 / W1, �4/ Beth Flansbaum-Talabisco Mayor 1 1 applicant. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned the hours of operation and Mr. Penn said Wednesday —Thursday 11:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m.; Friday —Saturday 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m.; Sunday 11:00 a.m.--11:00 p.m. Mr. Penn gave a presentation. Commissioner Dressler expressed concern regarding the appearance of the property and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned the length of the lease. City Clerk Swenson swore in the applicant, agent, staff and any affected parties that may wish to speak. Mr. Penn and Community Development Director Bramley reaffirmed their testimony. Tony Singh, Manager of the Restaurant said the lease is for seven years. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked if he had other restaurants in Broward County or South Florida and Mr. Singh said there is one in Orlando and one in New York City. Commissioner Atkins - Grad said the menu seems to have something for everybody and asked if the other businesses in the center would remain. Mr. Singh said they would. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked what kind of marketing is being done and Mr. Singh replied local newspapers and a Y2 hour television program on Comcast. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco suggested Mr. Singh become involved with the Chamber of Commerce and she hoped he would reach out to the surrounding communities. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco asked if other bars/restaurants in the City are open until 2:00 a.m. and Community Development Director Bramley said there have been some permits issued. The City will hold the restaurant directly responsible for performing the improvements listed and will not issue a full certificate of occupancy for the property until the improvements are in the works and fully inspected. Commissioner Dressler asked about repairing the sidewalk and Community Development Director Bramley said the applicant has agreed to areas of curbing and wheel stops. The conditions of approval run with the use of the property. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco questioned serving in the outside area and Community Development Director Bramley said there would be service but no outside entertainment. Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco opened the public hearing. Joel Davidson, 4608 Norfolk Island Drive, questioned the number of seats and ingress/egress. Mr. Penn said the restaurant would seat 200 and Community Development Director Bramley said ingress/egress would remain the same. Debbie Fleischman, 8612 NW 79 Street, questioned parking and Community Development Director Bramley said the restaurant is currently there, open and operating. It is a permitted use in a B-1 District. Commissioner Dressler asked if the City has the authority to revoke or restrict the use should the full service bar become a nuisance and City Attorney Goren said yes. Former Mayor Schreiber, 10504 E. Clairmont Circle, questioned the square footage of the restaurant and the name. Mayor Flansbaum- Talabisco said it is De Pirates Bay and Community Development Director Bramley said it is 6,500 sq. ft. Mr. Penn certified the applicant can live with and supports the conditions of approval. With no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco closed the public hearing. On roll call for Item No. 8, Commissioner Atkins -Grad voted "yes", Commissioner Dressler "yes", and Mayor Flansbaum-Talabisco "yes". Motion carried. ADOPTED ON FIRST READING — FEBRUARY 13, 2008 9. SPECIAL EXCEPTION-- TO ALLOW OPERATION OF A BAR WITHIN A FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT: (TR11341) Motion to approve Resolution approving a Special Exception to allow for the operation of an accessory bar within a full service restaurant located at 6455 West Commercial Boulevard, specifically Parcel °C of Commercial Boulevard Lands, according to the Plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book February 13, 2008 Page 7 of 8 pa 0 > v ¢ o o � F- O L `u � N V �`.� m ryrim W `I ^ Dn VF.1G!/. W Z a M_ O In 0 O\ a, O O ' 7 w C V O T t ry ry M y`14"11311",` w Z OV S p m F- !O- W .�+ F li �tiCONp� F FdS THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF MAYORS Douglas H. Palmer Mayor of Trenton President Manuel A. Diaz Mayor of Miami Vice President Greg Nickels Mayor of Seattle Advisory Board Chair Tom Cochran Executive Director 10. Unfunded Mandates/Preemptions The passage of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 was a positive step towards restricting the ability of Congress to impose new, costly unfunded mandates on state and local governments, or preempt their ability to fund critical local programs. However, the issue of unfunded federal mandates remains a major problem. For example, members of Congress continue to propose legislation that would preempt local governments in areas such as internet access fee collection and wireless telecommunications services. Therefore, mayors call for new legislation to strengthen the federal -local partnership and further restrict the ability of Congress to impose unfunded federal mandates or preempt local authority. The issue of unfunded federal mandates remains a major problem. America's greatest resource has always been and will always be its people. Americans are innovative, bold and generous. And 85 percent of Americans now live in cities and metro areas. Led by America's mayors, America's cities drive our national economy — the strongest national economy in the world. Metro economies now account for 85 percent of national employment, 87 percent of labor income, and 86 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). Of the largest too international economies in the world, 42 are US metro areas. Clearly, US metro areas are a dominant force in both the national and global economy. But our nation faces many great challenges, and mayors welcome the opportunity to confront these challenges. To keep US metro economies growing and to address critical domestic and international priorities — such as climate protection, job creation, security and education — there must be a stronger partnership between cities and the federal government that recognizes the leadership provided by America's mayors, and helps mayors continue to leverage private -sector investment. Under the leadership of President Douglas H. Palmer of Trenton, New Jersey, The U.S. Conference of Mayors is taking this message directly to Presidential candidates, the media, and the voters. We must invest wisely in our youth, our workforce, and our infrastructure in ways that spur creativity and competitiveness. Our national leaders — and those who seek to lead — must work directly with mayors on the to priorities identified by the members of The U.S. Conference of Mayors and contained in this document. Only by doing so can we have "Strong Cities, Strong Families, for a Strong America." 1. Energy Block Grant CLIMATE PROTECTION Mayors throughout the United States, working through The U.S. Conference of Mayors, are leading the nation on the critical issue of climate protection. Mayors, along with other leaders, are in a unique position to change human behavior and take local actions that will lead to significant and sustainable reductions in energy use, helping curb harmful greenhouse gas emissions. The American people deserve strong leadership on this global challenge, as the nation's mayors have provided. Our national government has refused to take significant action, contrary to the leadership by other governments, to protect the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, more than 730 mayors have signed The U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement and pledged to confront this Travel and tourism is a driving force for America's economy and diplomacy. 9. Tourism and Arts Tourism: Travel and tourism is a driving force for America's economy and diplomacy. Protecting our nation must remain para- mount, but a better balance is needed between homeland security and economic vitality. Since 9/11, while the world tourism market rapidly expanded, the U.S. share of international travel declined 17 percent. Foreign visitors are increasingly deterred by America's unwelcoming visa and entry processes. Unless these problems are corrected, Chicago's bid for the 2016 Olympics may be adversely impacted. The nation's mayors call for travel and tourism to be a national policy priority. We must enhance national security, while at the same time, increasing international travel to the U.S. through visa reforms, entry improvements and promotion. There must be full participation of the federal government in Chicago's pursuit to win the 2016 Olympics. Arts: The arts, humanities, and museums are critical to the quality of life and livability of America's cities. It has been shown that the nonprofit arts and culture industry generates over $166 billion in economic activity annually, supports over 5.7 million full time jobs, and returns over $12 billion in federal income taxes annually. Governments which support the arts on average see a return on investment of over $7 in taxes for every $1 that the government appropriates. Furthermore, federal, state and local governments, private foundations, corporations and individuals provide access to artistic activities for peoples of all races, creeds, and income levels. Recognizing the importance that the arts play, many countries throughout the world have established national cabinet level positions for culture and tourism. The nation's mayors urge the creation of a Cabinet level Secretary of Culture and Tour- ism charged with forming a national policy for arts, culture and tourism. Federal resources must also be invested in nonprofit arts organizations through their local arts agencies with full funding of the federal arts and culture agencies. To support these community -based initiatives, The U.S. Confer- ence of Mayors proposes the creation of an Energy Block Grant that is modeled after the highly successful Community Develop- ment Block Grant. This initiative should provide funding directly to cities, counties and states to support local efforts to improve community energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse emissions, and stimulate the deployment of new technologies, practices and alternative/renewable energy supplies. Program funds should be distributed by a formula based largely on population as well as energy -relevant factors, and recipients should be held account- able for their performance in reducing energy use and curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The block grant program would help augment local program resources, which currently rely substantially on local property taxes. This new federal partnership with cities on energy and climate protection will also help advance other federal priorities, such as the attainment of federal clean air and water quality standards, the reclamation and reuse of brownfields and vacant properties where existing infrastructure already exists, and combating rising congestion levels and other demands on the nation's transportation sector through smarter local development practices. In addition to general fund appropriations, this block grant initia- tive could also be supported by revenues from the elimination of recently -enacted tax preferences for the oil and gas industry, royalty payments from offshore oil and gas leases, and allotments of auc- tion revenues under pending "cap and trade" legislation. 2. 91 Fighting Crime VIOLENT CRIME RISING — MORE COPS NEEDED While the nation has been making progress on the fight against terrorism, street crime has been going up. The FBI's Uniform Crime Report for 2005 showed the largest single year percent increase in violent crime in 14 years. And this trend continued in 2006, with many cities seeing double-digit increases in murder, assault or robbery rates. Mayors and police chiefs have identified a number of contributing factors for this rise in crime including a growing culture of violence among youth, gangs, a proliferation of illegal guns, drug activity, the prisoner re-entry, and social problems related to school truancy and a lack of jobs. Federal resources have been shifted to home- land security, and a failed national drug control policy continues to flood America's streets with ilegal drugs from other countries. America's mayors and police must deal with the results. The COPS hiring program (once funded at almost $15 billion) and Local Law Enforcement Block Grant program (once funded at approximately $523 million) have both been eliminated. And, Congress and the Administration ended the assault weapon ban and have allowed AK-47s back on the streets. That is why the nation's mayors are calling for a comprehensive crime initiative that restores the federal -local partnership on hometown security. Homeland Security FIRST RESPONDER FUNDING, TRANSIT SECURITY, COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM As called for in the 2007 Mayors' 10-Point Plan, the 110th Congress enacted recommendations made by the 9/ 11 Commission to authorize funding increases for high -risk urban areas, emergency management, and transit security. And, the new law creates a stand-alone Interoperable Emergency Communications Grant Program as called for by the nation's mayors. However, more can and should be done to make sure that our nation's fast responders are prepared to prevent, respond and recov- er from either attacks or natural disasters. We need a comprehensive federal policy on transportation security. And it is well past time that the federal government enacts comprehensive immigration reform. First Responder Funding: Congress and the President must make sure that newly authorized programs for urban areas, block grants, interoperable communications, transit security and port security are fully funded. And, we must fix the flawed delivery system and continue to make improvements in the grant application process for federal homeland security resources to make sure that funding quickly reaches cities and is flexible to meet local needs. Transit Security: With more than 7.8 billion trips taken on public transit in the first nine months of 2006, securing this critical infrastructure and protecting riders from terrorist attacks must be a major priority. The nation's mayors are calling for a flexible Federal transit security initiative to improve security in the areas of communications, surveillance, detection systems, personnel and training. As we have done with aviation, securing public transit is a Federal responsibility and should not require a local or state match. Furthermore, security funds should go directly to the operator of that system or the jurisdiction providing the security. Immigration Reform: The nation's mayors urge enactment of comprehensive immigration reform that would improve border security, bolster economic prosperity, and provide the approxi- mately 12 million people already in the U.S. without legal autho- rization an opportunity to earn their permanent residence and citizenship, provided: they have not committed serious crimes; have learned, or are in the process of learning English; and pay taxes and social security on their earnings. 7. Children and At -Risk Youth There is a high school dropout crisis in America. Every school day, nearly seven thousand students drop out. That means up to L2 mil- lion students annually will not graduate from high school with their peers. Only about 58 percent of Hispanic students and 53 percent of AfricanAmerican students will graduate on time with a regular diploma. Unless high schools find a way to graduate students at higher rates, more than 12 million of them will drop out over the course of the next decade, resulting in a loss to the nation of $3 trillion. With each dropout a community suffers the loss of tax revenue and employment, higher costs associated with increased incarceration, gang membership and social services, and increased poverty. In order for our nation to begin to address the growing poverty crisis in our cities, our suburbs, and our rural areas —we must invest in childhood development, health and education. Early Childhood Development: Mayors recognize that student achievement is inextricably linked to early childhood programs, health and nutrition, social service supports and parental involve- ment. As such, it is crucial that funding for the Head Start, Early Head Start, In and Out of School Meal and Food Stamps pro- grams be increased to reach all eligible participants. Children's Health Insurance: It is critical that all children receive access to quality healthcare from the earliest moments of their lives in order to develop into productive and strong members of society. Mayors call for a comprehensive children's health insurance benefits package that will provide quality medical, dental and mental health services for all eligible low-income children. Teacher Quality: Significant federal resources are required to train, recruit and retain highly qualified teachers in school districts with a disproportionate number of at -risk students. In addition, teachers who work with at -risk youth require continued opportunities for skills development in order to learn about innovative strategies to engage students in learning. Quality After -School Programming: Mayors call for an increased funding commitment to cities for quality after -school and summer enhancement programs to eliminate knowledge loss and inspire student interest in a variety of areas. Most specifically, it is crucial to strengthen and fully fund the 21st Century Learning Centers and other after -school programs intended to increase the academic achievement of at -risk students. Parental Involvement: Research consistently finds that paren- tal and community involvement has a direct, positive effect on children's achievement and is the most accurate predictor of a student's success in school. Federal education policy should reinforce parental involvement programs and encourage community members to interact with neighborhood schools. COPS: As was done under the 1994 Crime Bill, mayors are calling for a federal trust fund to put more police on the streets, fight gangs, reduce domestic violence, and fund anti -crime technology. Specifically, funding for COPS and the local block grant should be restored, and mayors fully support strong accountability standards tied to these grants. Gangs: Balanced anti -gang legislation must be enacted that strengthens local law enforcement and provides positive alternatives to gang participation. Re-entry and Rehabilitation: 750,000 prisoners and juvenile detainees are leaving prisons and jails and coming back to cities every year. Mayors are leading locally on this issue, but federal resources are needed to provide alternatives to ex -offenders and juvenile detainees, and address related housing, job training and placement, drug treatment, and education issues. Gun Violence: The federal government must address the growing violence caused by illegal guns by restoring the assault weapon ban, closing the gun show background check loophole, and providing law enforcement with greater access to gun trace data by removing the "Tiahrt Amendment." Many cities are seeing double-digit increases in murder, assault or robbery rates. 3. Community Development Block Grants SUCCESSFUL RESULTS, DOUBLE RESOURCES For 33 years, since 1974, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program has served as a vital resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. No other federal -local government program has been as successful as CDBG. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has been, and continues to be, a critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tool for communities. While providing essential services to citizens nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), in Fiscal Year 2004 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities including: expand- ing homeownership opportunities; eliminating slums and blight; improving infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems; and supporting libraries, fire stations, community and recreation centers, adult day care, after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, and business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in Fiscal Year 2004 alone. But even with proven success, CDBG formula grants have been threatened and significantly reduced over the last several years. In Fiscal Year 2006 the program was cut by 10 percent, and in 2005 the cut was 5 percent, resulting in a 15 percent cut in two years. A survey released in March, 2006 by The U.S. Conference of Mayors and 20 other organizations found that the reduced formula allocations have had a substantial negative effect on entitlement communities and states. With inflation taken into account, the Northeast -Midwest Institute found that CDBG has been substan- tially reduced since fiscal 198L Adjusted for inflation, the 1981 CDBG appropriation of $3.5 billion would have been $7.5 billion in Fiscal Year 2006. The nation's mayors recommend that CDBG formula funding be doubled to $8 billion. This additional funding would address the delayed projects and activities which have come about because of cuts to CDBG, and further build on the proven record of an effective affordable housing and revitalization program. Strengthening Workforce Development: It is crucial to support a sustained commitment to the demand -driven local workforce development system, and to programs that help people acquire the knowledge and skills needed to become competitive workers in a 21st century global economy. As such, the nation's mayors call for timely reauthorization of the Workforce Investment Act, and full funding of its programs to ensure a significant investment in lifelong learning for every American citizen. Green jobs: For tens of thousands of Americans who have been left behind in the global economy because of barriers to employ- ment, limited education, or a prior history of incarceration, "green jobs" can also create "green pathways out of poverty." The nation's mayors call for a partnership with the federal government to connect formerly incarcerated adults, along with urban youth, formerly homeless people and/or those with other barriers to employment, with progressive green businesses and clean technology companies. High school dropout rates in some cities are as high as 50 percent, and the youth unemployment rate is at its highest level in decades. 6. 4. Competitive Workforce In response to intensified global competitive pressure, American companies are required to enhance performance by innovating and adopting process and product improvements. This requires a skilled workforce with the knowledge and ability to adapt to ever -changing business needs. And yet, with baby boomers retiring at increasing rates, the next generation of workers does not have the required post -secondary degree attainment or the necessary technical skills to replace them. More importantly, our emerging workforce is increasingly discon- nected from educational pathways and the world of work. High school dropout rates in some cities are as high as 50 percent, and the youth unemployment rate is at its highest level in decades. Promoting Youth Development and Employment: By 2010, the largest segment of the nation's labor force will be teens and young adults as 41 million new workers enter the workforce to replace the 76 million retiring workers. Yet the overall teen employment rate in the past three years (2004-2006) is at a historical low. Addressing this problem demands strategies which create jobs, make school learning more relevant to the labor market, provide expanded opportunities for out -of -school youth to gain work competencies, and help at -risk youth envision career advancement opportunities. As such, the nation's mayors call for a new summer youth employment initiative to provide funding directly to cities and urban counties to create paid subsidized employment in local, state and federal government agencies and the private non-profit sector, and to subsidize wages for youth in private for -profit firms. Housing National Affordable Housing Trust Fund: In October, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund Act of 2007. The bill would provide for the production, rehabilitation, and preservation of U million housing units over the next 10 years. The trust fund resources will not come from fed- eral tax revenues, but from the Federal Housing Administration's mortgage lending surpluses and the portfolios of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The nation's mayors support a National Affordable Housing Trust Fund that would help address the critical shortage of affordable housing in our nation. Public Housing: Public housing is a national asset worth over $100 billion and provides homes for 1.1 million low income families. Public housing operating subsidies, which supports public housing maintenance, security, and social services for residents, has been cut over recent years. The public housing capital fund, which supports the capital needs of public housing, has an estimated backlog of capital improvements needs estimated between $18 and $20 billion. The nation's mayors support full funding of the public housing operating subsidies and of the public housing capital fund. HOPE VI: The HOPE VI program for severely distressed public housing has been targeted for elimination over the past several years, but has survived through nominal Congressional appropria- tions. The nation's mayors support the restoration of HOPE VI to a funding level that returns the program to an effective national tool for public housing development. Mortgage Foreclosure: According to the Center for Responsible Lending, as a result of the subprime mortgage crisis over two mil- lion homeowners across the nation could lose their homes through foreclosure. Mayors are concerned about the economic distress of families, decimated neighborhoods, and the declining tax base of their cities. The nation's mayors call for Federal Housing Ad- ministration (FHA) reform and modernization. Mayors also call for comprehensive federal legislative and regulatory policies that 5. Rebuild and Modernize America's Infrastructure TRANSPORTATION, WATER, WASTEWATER, BROWNFIELDS, TELECOMMUNICATIONS, SCHOOLS, AFFORDABLE HOUSING Congested and deteriorating highways, crowded and outdated schools, transit demand outpacing available resources and services, and massive networks of aging water and wastewater facilities provide evidence of the escalating infrastructure crisis that is jeop- ardizing America's prosperity. Most visible reminders can be found in the recent collapse of the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis which resulted in the loss of 13 lives, the steam pipe explosion in New York City and its disruption, and of course the levee collapse and other infrastructure problems in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma, costing the lives of thousands of Americans and untold billions in damage. From transit to energy, this critical infrastructure has been neglected for far too long by the federal government. Today, our national government directs a smaller share of its budget to these investments than at any point in recent memory. And, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers' 2005 Report Card for America's Infrastructure, the nation's overall infrastructure received a D grade with the Report Card, calling for $1.6 trillion to alleviate our nation's infrastructure needs. Financing: To address this growing infrastructure threat, the nation's mayors are calling for funding increases, tax incentives, bonds, and other measures to support local and state efforts, and stimulate private sector participation to improve infrastructure in- cluding transportation, water, wastewater, bridges, brownfrelds, energy, telecommunications, and schools. There must also be related policies that support the more efficient use of the nation's existing infrastructure through reclaiming brownfields and vacant lots, and by providing affordable housing options in America's cities. These tax incentives and bonds would help create hundreds of thousands of family -wage jobs (which cannot be exported to other countries), while revitalizing our critical infrastructure across the country. Deferred Maintenance: In addition to funding new capacity projects, it is just as critical that our nation focus available re- sources on deferred maintenance, a strategy that can help preserve the performance and functionality of existing assets, sustain economic productivity, and often save lives. Capital Budget: The federal government should adopt a capital budgeting system that could provide for substantially higher federal commitments to infrastructure investment in the near term, consistent with state and local standards and practices. a t Feb Via Fay U�ITED STAlf9VINMMU SCE aF 1M,AYORS °f ee4 16zD EYE sTREE7. NOIr[7iVVCsr WASMNGTON, D.C_ 20006 THUPHONE (202) 293-7330 FAX (M2) 293-2352 TDD (2D2) 293.9445 URG www.usmayom.onguscm TO: The Mayor FROM: t7omcochran Executive Director and CEO DATE: February 6, 2008 SUBJECT; Staff Analysis of the President's Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Request On February 4, 2005 President Bush submitted his budget proposal. to Congress calling for � $3.1 trillion in new spending in fiscal year 2009. The Administration has proposed eliminating or reducing funding for 151 discretionary programs, many of which are key city priorities. Attached is the Conference of Mayors staff executive summary which discusses how key city priorities would be impacted. A more detailed analysis of these and other important programs, and a budget chart comparing proposed funding for 2009 with current funding can be accessed online at www.usma ors.or . 'Feb 06 2000 12:16:35 Via Fax -> 19547241226 Mayor Flansbaum--Talc Page 002 Of 004 The U.S. Conference of Mayors Staff Executive Summary of Key City Priorities a In the President's FY 2009 Budget Proposal February 6, 2008 CUTS/ELIMINATIONS • Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) - Grants given to local governments to promote community and economic development would be cut from $3.886 billion in 2008 to $3.000 billion in FY 2009, a 22 percent reduction. • Revitalization of Severely Distressed Public );lousing (MOPE VI) - Program which was funded at $1 OD million in FY 2008 would be terminated in FY 2009. Law Enforcement - Once again, the Administration is proposing to slash local law enforcement partnership programs. This year, the proposed cut would be 57 percent, from $2.03 billion to $865 million. The Administration is requesting zero funding for the, COPS community policing program, the Byrne/Justice Assistance Grant program, the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program, Bullet Proof Vests, Drug Courts, and the Weed and Seed program. In addition, there would be major cuts in Violence Against Women Act grants and Juvenile Justice programs. • Homeland Security/First Responder Programs - Funding for key state and local homeland security programs would be cut 47 percent, down from $3.96 billion to $2.08 billion. State Homeland Security Grants would be slashed from $950 million to $200 Million, Port Security Grants cut from $400 million to $210 million, Public Transportation Security Grants cut from $400 million to $175 million, Firefighter Assistance Grants cut from $750 million to $300 nulliozl, and Emergency Management Performance Grants from $300 million to $200 million. • Amtrak - The Bush Administration again has proposed deep reductions in funding for Amtrak, a cut of almost $525 million or 40 percent below the current funding level of $1.325 billion. • Mass Transit -- The budget would cut public transportation programs by $202,1 million below the $10.3 billion guaranteed in the surface transportation Iaw. Airport Improvement Program - The budget reduces funding commitments to the Airport Improvement Program, (AIP) by $765 million or 22 percent below the current spending level of $3.515 billion. In addition, the Administration used the budget to announce its intention to withhold the awarding of new ATP grants, totaling $3.498 billion in FY 2008, until such time as a new aviation law is enacted and authorizes the expenditure of these funds. Feb 06 2000 1Z:11:12 Via Fax -> 19547Z41226 Maynr Flansbaum-Talc Page 003 Of 004 • Highway Programs — Overall spending Authority for highway program categories will be, reduced by about $1.8 billion below the $41.2 billion guaranteed in the SAFETEA-LU Iaw. This is part of a package of actions to address the growing revenue shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund. The proposed reduction would have been significantly higher, absent an Administration decision to shift an estimated $3.2 billion now dedicated to public transportation the Mass Transit Trust Fund to prop up highway spending levels in FY 2009. Low -Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (L=AP) --- Funding for low, income heating and energy assistance would be cut by $540 million or 22% before adjusting for changing energy prices. This would require cutting more than 1 million low- income families and elderly people off the program entirely, shrinking the average amount of assistance provided to poor families by 22 percent, or some combination of the two. Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) — Similar to last year, the Administration is proposing to eliminate the Community Service Block Grant. For the last three budget cycles this Administration has proposed eliminating this program and each year Congress has restored funding. Last year CSBG was appropriated $654 million in state block grants dollars. The CSBG program provides States and Indian Tribes with funds to lessen poverty in communities. The funds provide a range of services and activities to assist the deeds of low-income individuals including the homeless, migrants and the elderly. + Commodity Supplemental Food Program — The President's budget proposes the elimination of this program claiming it is duplicative because it serves a similar target population as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). While the program does serve women and children, it also serves the elderly poor with dietary supplemental foods, CSFP provides actual food as opposed to food vouchers that WIC participants receive. Additionally, eligible people can not participate in both programs, • Centers for Disease Control and prevention — The budget would cut funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by $433 million. These reductions include sharp cuts in Amding for detection and control of infectious diseases and preventive health services. • Weatherization Assistance Grants Program — The Administration is proposing to eliminate this program which was funded at $227 million in FY 2008. The Administration is proposing to eliminate the Renewable Energy Production Incentives (REPI), which was funded at $4,955 million in FY 2008. Clean Water Infrastructure — The budget request for Clean Water State Revolving Loan Funds was lowered this year to an all-time low of $555 million, This is a continuing downward spiral from the $689 million from the FY 2008 enacted budget (a $134 million cut). However, it is even more of a significant decrease when compared to FY 2004's Teb 86 2080 12:12:82 Via Fax -> 19547241226 Mayor Flansbaum-Talc Page 004 Of 884 actual allocation of $1,350 billion - this included Congressional earmarks, This is nearly a 59 percent decrease from previous levels. • Arts — The President proposes to cut the National Endowment for the Arts by $16 million, cut from $144 million to $128 million. Community Trees — The President's budget proposes to virtually eliminate the Urban and Community Forestry Program by cutting it by 82 percent, from $27 million to $5 million. INCREASES HUD's Housing Counseling Program — The budget proposes $65 million, a 30 percent increase to provide housing counseling for homebuyers and to combat foreclosures. Intercity Passenger Rail — Although Amtrak would probably cease to exist under the proposed funding level in the President's Budget, the Administration also requested $100 million for capital matching grants to States for intercity passenger rail projects, up significantly from the $30 million provided in FY 2008, which was the first year federal funds were provided to states for this purpose, Private Activity Bonds — The President's budget also includes a proposal to help local governments Raid water and wastewater projects through private activity bonds (PABs), which are used to finance water and other infrastructure projects. Under current law there is an overall limit on the volume of PABs that each state may issue. The President's proposal would remove water and wastewater projects from the state volume cap, giving; these projects greater access to the PAB market. • Army Corps of Engineers — The proposed budget for FY 2008 calls for discretionary budget authority of $4.741 billion which is a decrease of FY 2008 proposed budget (4.871 billion) and enacted (5.340 billion). However, the Army Coxes is asking for $5.761 billion in additional emergency funding to provide 100-year storm protection for New Orleans. 4 .. Reacb * Peo g le fVbo Need Heo: Mayor Palmer's Task Force to Confront the Foreclosure Crisis "Trenton's enhanced response to the foreclosure crisis began in November 2007 in Detroit, when Mayor Douglas Palmer joined fellow Mayors and U.S. Conference of Mayors staff at a Summit on Homeownership Preservation and Avoiding Foreclosures, examining the economic ripple effect of the situation and corrective actions. Since then, the Trenton response has included: Page 1 1 • Assessment of the extent of the problem (there are more than 600 Trenton property owners in, or at risk of, foreclosure — and that number may double in 2008); + Briefings of local faith -based leaders and community groups engaged in housing counseling, so as to seek grassroots support for the community outreach needed to help people save their homes; • Discussions with local media promoting use of the Hope Hotline and other resources through which property owners can get assistance., • Launch by the Mayor of a public/private/nonprofit Task Force comprising the Mortgage Bankers .association, Wells Fargo, Countrywide, State Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency and Department of Banking and Industry leaders, HUD -approved counseling agencies, NeighborWorks, the counseling services of the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NAC1) (www.naca.com), and Rev. DeForest "Buster" Soarics, whose First Baptist Community Development Corporation has developed a multi - tiered counseling program for residents at various levels of risk; • Using the bully pulpit to spread the word that "There is no shame in trying to save your home" and continuing to build local capacity for counseling and restructuring of loans ... so that people can keep their homes (ran the attached erase slur v demonstrates). a A Trenton Case Study: One Home Saved Background on the Problem Marcia and her husband John purchased a home in Trenton in 1992 for just over. $60,000, at a 9.859 percent interest rate. With three children — and four grandchildren — the past 15 years have been eventful ... but not without hardships. Marcia's husband, a landscaper, had his, foot smashed by a large mower on a hillside in Princeton and, as a result, had endured several surgeries. The injury led to an amputation of his foot, then to diabetes, and then, sadly, to John's death in 2004. It was during the period of her husband's disability and illness that Marcia got behind on mortgage payments. `1"oday, she is not far from retirement and would like to stay in her home — and as a State worker with a modest income, she has been able to afford the monthly payments. In fact, she has not missed a payment in five years — and she has the records to prove it. However, in July 2007, she received a letter from her lender advising her that she would face a 64 percent increase — a jump of $550 — in her monthly payment for September. On the advice of her attorney, she instead sent the payments that were stipulated by her paperwork. In November 2007, a copy of a Sheriffs Sale notice (newly printed in the local paper) was taped to her front door, announcing the public sale of her home! It was a complete shock to her. (She later learned that this "notice" probably was placed there by one of the dozens of speculators who soon came zooming in with follow-up letters offering to buy her home — or to buy it and then rent it back to her.) Citing possible violations of the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, Marcia's attorney was able to block the sale of her home. For the past 10 years, Marcia has been paying monthly amounts, under "forbearance agreements" with her lender. A forbearance agreement, generally speaking, is a short- term arrangement to catch up after getting behind on mortgage payments. Page 1 2 Each forbearance agreement requires a lump sum payment; in Marcia's case, each of these payments to extend the agreement was more than $2,000. No one Marcia has talked with ever has heard of anyone being subject to forbearance agreements for such a long time. �klthough her attorney's intervention last fall won the return of her monthly payment to the level she can afford, as of January 2008, Marcia began the new year unable to continue paying for an attorney to go to bat for her.. Because her current forbearance agreement runs out in June, Marcia realized she was again facing the loss of her home — and that her debt was more than $20,000 higher than the original sale price. Seeking a Solution On the advice of a co-worker, in early January she called the office of Mayor Douglas Palmer in Trenton and in a series of conversations was advised to call the Hope Flotline and to fill out the application form on the website of the Neighborhood lkssistance Corporation of America (NACA). She met January 18" with two Philadelphia -based NACA counselors who had come to 'Trenton two days earlier for a cross -functional task force meeting that the Mayor had convened to confront the nation's — and Trenton's — foreclosure crisis. The NAND counselors met with Marcia and then spoke with the lender and arranged for a restructuring of the loan. Her monthly payment was lowered by $85, the amount of the loan was lowered by about $8,000, and the interest rate was reduced from nearly 10 percent to 5.5 percent. As well, the loan is "fully amortizing," which means she will be paying not just interest but also will pay down the principal. The Bottom Line: There is Still Hope Marcia knows firsthand the embarrassment that people feel when they get behind in their payments — she didn't even want to tell her children about the situation. Page 1 3 After years of worrying about how to figure out a solution, she is acutely aware of the frustration of the mortgage foreclosure trap. Today she has expressed her wish to help Mayor Palmer and NACA encourage property owners in Trenton and throughout \merica to get over the feelings of despair and hopelessness ... and get into a better financial situation. Here are some of her thoughts about how to go about facing foreclosure: • By June of2008, I was told, I would have to move out ofmy home. That home holds a lot ofinemories for me, my children; my grandchildren. • I realized that this would be 15 years ofmy life down the drain ifllost my home. • That'swhen y ou need someone who knows what the doing to help you out. • I think the NA CA website is very clear. And ifpeople don't have computers, I think someone at the Library should be trained to help them. • If the mortgage companies would just talk to the people properly instead of sending threa tening letters ... all wanted was someone who would listen to me. I would have Irked them to offer a restructuring plan, but I could onlyget those bill collector persons on the phone. They would promise to have a supervisor call within 48 hours but they never would • You need to keep the records from yourpayments, for taxes, utilities, and your mortgage. • My advice is to come forward and try and work out a solution. But you need to know who will be able to help you. • Referring to the outcome: The system should work this way for everyone. .. .. .. .. .. Page 1 4 From: Mayor Beth Talabisco FYI Chica o 2016 Questionnaire Response Top Ten Facts CHICA ,(D 201E Chicago's concept for hosting the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games will create an unforgettable Olympic experience. The plan puts athletes at the center of the Games, integrates the Games with the city's downtown area and lakefront and features venues and a design that are responsible and sustainable. The bid's response to the IOC Applicant City Questionnaire offers a detailed look at the concept; below are some highlights. 1) Principal motivation for hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games. In its bid for the Games, Chicago is motivated to achieve a series of sustainable goals aligned with the Olympic Movement's aim of building lasting global harmony. The five key components of Chicago 2016's Games concept are to deliver an extraordinary experience for athletes and spectators, inspire our youth through sport, reignite the Olympic Movement in the United States, promote harmony throughout the world and transform Chicago's urban landscape. 2) A bold concept for Games. Chicago's concept for the Olympic and Paralympic Games will create an unforgettable Olympic experience for the athletes and each specific client group within the Olympic Family at the Games. The plan envisions the Games interwoven into the sustainable landscape of Chicago's century -old lakefront park system in a walking district that features the city's most impressive cultural institutions, sports facilities and entertainment attractions. Chicago's lakefront already draws more than 25 million people to its annual sport and cultural festivals and is known as one of America's greatest urban celebration centers. 3) Compact Games plan in the heart of the city. No other plan in history has envisioned a more centrally located, compact Olympic Games. The site of the Olympic Village will be near 19 sports venues, and 91 percent of the athletes will be within 15 minutes of their competition venues. The Village's proximity to the lakefront and Chicago's downtown area will allow athletes to experience the city's world -class cultural institutions, dining, shopping and hospitality with ease. The Olympic Stadium will be within a 15-minute drive of downtown. As most of the venues are close to Chicago's extensive mass -transit system, spectators will be able to travel to events easily. The International Broadcast Center (IBC) and the Main Press Center (MPC) will be located in McCormick Place, allowing the media to be close to the Village, competition venues and the downtown area and celebration centers. 4) A spectacular Olympic experience. Chicago's passion for athletic competition and its tradition of staging cultural events and celebrations will combine to make the atmosphere outside the sports venues as electric as the events within. Chicago's plan for the Games makes the downtown area and lakefront the focus of activity while fully integrating the city's cultural and entertainment attractions. During the Games athletes, the Olympic Family and spectators will get to experience the parts of Chicago that currently draw more than 86 million tourists to the city each year. What's more, Grant Park will serve as a celebration center and Olympic live site, set up to enrich the experience. The best that the city has to offer will be within easy reach of athletes, the Olympic Family spectators, creating a truly unique Games experience. 5) A state-of-the-art Olympic Stadium that will serve as a model for future Host Cities. Chicago's Olympic Stadium represents a unique opportunity for the Olympic Movement. At the time of the Games, it will be a dramatic purpose-built athletics stadium that meets or exceeds the ideal standards of the IAAF and key Olympic and Paralympic constituencies. Post -Games, the scaled -down reconfigured stadium will be the centerpiece for the revitalization of the Washington Park area. The accessible, community -based venue will be used for sports, concerts and other civic events and can be expanded to host major international athletic events. CHicAGc7 .dot 6) A plan driven by sustainability, responsibility and technical excellence. In selecting venues, Chicago 2016's design puts a premium on existing facilities and builds temporary structures wherever possible. Indeed, 81 percent of the venues-22 of 27—are either existing or temporary. Chicago already has some of the world's premier sports venues, and the plan designates McCormick Place, a multiuse convention center boasting more than 743,000 m2of contiguous space, to host 11 Olympic and 8 Paralympic sports. This approach minimizes construction and emphasizes fiscal responsibility. The area around the site of the Olympic Village, for example, will be developed regardless of whether Chicago hosts the Games, acting as a catalyst for the transformation of the city's near South Side. Post -Games it will be converted to residential housing. 7) A Games legacy that positions Chicago as the center of Olympic sport. Chicago is already the cultural and economic capital of the Midwest region, and hosting the Olympic Games would put the city in a position to be a new center for the Olympic Movement and sport in the United States. The construction of five new permanent venues will serve as the foundation for this effort. Chicago 2016 has also laid the groundwork for future programs to promote Olympic and Paralympic sport through the launch of World Sport Chicago (WSC), an organization established to deliver long-term legacy programs. The new Olympic Aquatics Center at Douglas Park will become a regional and national competition venue and also provide more of the city's communities with access to swimming facilities. 8) A national marketing program for the Games to ensure their financial success. In addition to television and marketing revenues coming from the IOC, Chicago's domestic marketing program will generate $2.5 billion. Chicago is already home to 29 Fortune 500 companies, and it ranks as the fourth -largest city economy in the world. The city and region represent a largely untapped economic resource for the Olympic Movement. Chicago 2016's Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOG) will enter into a marketing joint venture with the USOC, and this venture will optimize the OCOG's share of revenue for the purpose of staging the Games. 9) The city's extensive transportation infrastructure provides a good foundation for the Games plan. The existing capacity of the mass -transit system is sufficient to accommodate the Games, but upgrades are needed to enhance the quality of experience. Almost all of the venue locations and noncompetition sites are well served by the existing mass -transit system (including bus, subway and rail) and the area's network of roadways and highways. Dedicated Olympic lanes will further reduce travel times, and buses and shuttles will operate within the downtown area to transport athletes and spectators. The Chicago metropolitan area currently spends more than $2 billion annually to maintain and improve its transportation network. From now until 2016, $27 billion is allocated for highway and transit projects in the area. An infusion of federal funds is also anticipated over this period. Currently, $8 billion in improvement projects are being studied and, if approved, will enhance the transportation system significantly. 10) Enthusiastic, unified support at all levels of government. Chicago 2016, through its close partnerships with the City of Chicago and the USOC, has secured the support of national, regional, state and local government. Such unqualified enthusiasm for the Games is unique and demonstrates that the bid is truly a national endeavor. As the process moves forward, this endorsement of the bid and its mission will help ensure the efficient and effective implementation of steps needed to stage a successful Games should Chicago gain the privilege of being a Host City.