http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/01/06/local_news/doc4962c6fe678b0232588945.txt
“'We accepted proposals like this before, so I don’t know why we would not accept this one,' (City Development Director Brian O’Connell) said."
Three words: State and Main.
Wasn't that touted as housing for a new breed of "55 and betters" who wanted to live the urban dream? But when you wake up to the reality of the situation, many of the rentals are subsidized by Section 8, while the retail space on the lower level remains vacant. (I know, I heard, a sandwich shop is going in there. We'll see.) I'm told that the rental tenants are enjoying the on-site theater and gymnasium, while they last.
Mr. Chase Hendrix' comment on the Journal Times story above is one of the most intelligent things I have read on the local development scene. Developers in Racine throw up buildings or rehab standing ones in pursuit of federal and state monies and incentives, then leave generations of us to deal with the consequences. Why does City Hall not only allow this, but endorse it?
As I drove by State and Main today, I again saw an "Emergency Flood Restoration" van parked outside with a large tube leading into the building. They were also parked out there last spring after the rains. And who knows how many other times? This is the building that had to be gutted halfway through its construction because of a massive mold problem. This is the building that was described as an "anchor" for the northern end of downtown (even though the pre-existing and much more aesthetically pleasing M&I Bank building sits directly north of it).
Just so City Hall knows: anchors can sink things, too.
I really want to say ' I know nothing of section 8,' but unfortunately I do. Yes, there are good people on the program, but the majority of what I have seen are not good. I would love to go back to the days when HAP (Housing Authority Program Inspectors) would come back into the unit and see the damage. But, no. Today the tenant pays full security or escrow (whatever you wish to call it). The damages done ... well, that's the owner's problem. I no longer take HAP. Sure, get the judgment and then you try to collect. And, of course, the program director will tell you they take such people off the program...for how long...not long enough. Time we stopped paying (you and me) for the people who utilize the programs and us. This will be another Jacato Drive given the chance.
ReplyDeleteIsn't this the spot where they wanted a "chain" restaurant to move into?
ReplyDeleteSo where would all the people park if they put in 55 apartments?