2012-04-25 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Tim Breihan with H3 Studios - units in the area. Current market trends show more for-sale units in the future. Elsie Glickert 6712 Etzel Ms. Glickert stated that she was involved in urban renewal in the 1960s. In 1962, and urban renewal bond issue was passed which resulted in development of Ackert Walkway, Metcalfe Park, and current student housing on Enright. She added that we must be practical; it will take a lot of money. There has been improvement in the area. Condominiums bring roots to the neighborhood. The neighborhood must have a base. Tenants are great, but they are transient. It is important to have ownership present. Cheryl Adelstein Washington University Ms. Adelstein mentioned proposed $80 million private investment in redevelopment project. She mentioned the additional $20 million investment in other housing renovation in the area. These investments are catalytic in the neighborhood. Affordability of units in the area is a major concern to Washington University. There is a lot of graduate student housing in the neighborhood and it is a preferred location of international students. It is critical that the neighborhood stay affordable. Residents can walk to and from many destinations and it is sustainable. Ms. Adelstein added that the plan is setting a national model. It has also triggered applying for funding for street improvements. Commissioner Moran asked about the $20 million investment mentioned and if it was for property acquisition. Ms. Adelstein stated that it is for renovations to buildings the University already owns. Commissioner Greening asked about a non-profit entity not paying taxes and the potential burden to police and fire protection. Ms. Adelstein stated that Washington University is a willing community partner. The University is not intending to buy more property. They recently created a for-profit subsidiary putting properties back on the tax rolls. The program is in its first year and they have put four buildings, 32 units, back on the tax rolls due to layout of the units not meeting the needs of grad students. She stated that in the future they might like to sell some of those properties. With no further comments from the public, the Public Hearing was closed. Mr. Halpert stated that the next step is that it would be considered for adoption at the Plan Commission meeting scheduled for May 23. Zoning Text Amendment Proposed amendment to Article 8 of the Zoning Code Mr. Halpert stated that the next agenda item is a proposed amendment to Article 8 of the Zoning Code, the sign regulations. It pertains to an incident involving the display of political signs. tm; E