Laserfiche WebLink
Session 1760 <br />June 21, 1999 <br /> <br />soon as possible. We have the prospect of a 70 million dollar development being launched <br />across our border to the west thus indicating that redevelopment is a very real possibility for <br />this property in the very near future. The applicant should be fully aware and accepting of <br />the City plan for imminent redevelopment. With that understanding and conditions <br />regarding signage, litter policing and nontransferability of this permit, the Council may grant <br />approval. The applicant has been previously advised that University City will not give any <br />tax or fee reduction to any occupant or owner of property as valuable as this. <br /> <br />Charles Van Dyke, 4380 West Pine, is president of the board for the Independent Center, <br />the applicant. Mr. Van Dyke, said that they operate several centers all across the country <br />and that they are extremely well respected in other countries and often, are studied for their <br />operating and program methods. Mr. Van Dyke said that this location was very good for <br />them, but that they were well aware of the City's long range redevelopment plans. <br /> <br />Mr. Lieberman is concerned about the growing number of not-for-profits in the community <br />right now. The ability for the City to continue to receive tax dollars is very important. <br /> <br />Responding to Mr. Sharpe, Mr. Van Dyke explained that there are a number of services that <br />are offered the members, such as job training and life skills learning. The members are <br />trained in their retail store. Their members are mentally ill and they are at Independent <br />Center to learn how to function in society. They come from the City and County, from all <br />walks of life. <br /> <br />Mr. Munkel asked if they were an umbrella organization of BJC. Mr. Van Dyke responded <br />that BJC acts as a contract employer of the employees and other staff of the Independent <br />Center. <br /> <br />Responding to Ms. Colquitt, Mr. Van Dyke responded that the hours of the Independent <br />Center were 8 to 5. <br /> <br />Responding to Mr. Wagner, Mr. Van Dyke explained that they did not turn anyone away. <br />Some members have insurance or pay, others do not. <br /> <br />Beth Brown, 4380 W. Pine, gave an overview of the Center's background and general <br />operations. The retail store's main purpose is to raise income for the Independent Center <br />as well as being a training center. The shop is a lightly used resale shop. <br /> <br />Responding to Mr. Sharpe, Ms. Brown said that the members come and go during the day <br />and are trained to incorporate themselves into everyday society. <br />Responding to Mr. Munkel, Ms. Brown said that they served over 1300 people in the City <br />and County and she is sure some of those lived in University City. <br /> <br />10 <br /> <br /> <br />