Andy,
I understand the endorsement, but it sounded like you were apologizing for endorsing a project that will eventually bring 7 million dollars a year in property tax to the city. I am not a big supporter of give away programs unless there is a way that the city as a whole can benefit.You know that I am a die hard fiscal conservative.:) I think giving up 6 million over 5 years to get 7 million a year back is a good thing.

It has to happen with outside money because the state and federal funds are not there and are going to be less from now on. We are also looking at doing other innovative things to create revenue to help make up shortfalls in the future. It is an exciting time to be on the edge of new and creative thinking. You will should talk with Rick about the future of HRA and the way they would like to proceed. It is pretty cool stuff.

J (Name removed to protect privacy)


Andy: When and how did the Chamber endorse this idea? We need street and infrastructure maintenance, not this type of boondoggle. My hat is off to Mr. Stewart on this one!!!! Obviously, the Chamber's membership has been so diluted by the not-for-profits that this is deemed "good public policy" in the eyes of its membership. I find this unbelievable.....it seems to me that the Chamber is fast becoming a reflection of this community, very socialized, green, non-growth, and intellectualized in its views of what "should be." I don't envy my off-spring running a business for the next 20 years in this environment. I certainly feel any participation on their part would be a waste of time. They sure arn't encouraged by anything they see the Chamber doing that would make them want to become active. I'm sure when I cease to be active this company will no longer be a member of the Chamber. I don't blame them one bit.
K (Name removed to protect privacy)