Laserfiche WebLink
Councilmember Marx referenced a recent conversation with County Councilmember Dale Miller <br /> in which he indicated that County Council prefers to see a financial investment from the City of <br /> Lakewood before County Council commits funds to the development. She highlighted the <br /> positive contributions the development has already brought to the community and noted the <br /> developer's comparative success in a tough development environment. <br /> Councilmember Baker lauded the project but questioned how the city can protect its financial <br /> interests. <br /> Director Leininger advised that anytime the city provides funds for economic development that it <br /> attaches performance measures. He recommended specific strategies for doing so. <br /> Councilmembers Litten and Marx each committed $25,000 of individual funds toward the <br /> project. President Litten clarified that he would like his portion to go toward a forgivable loan <br /> with conditions, rather than a grant. <br /> Councilmembers Rader & Kepple expressed some reservations about the use of the funds and <br /> assuring the city's financial protection. <br /> Madison Park Master Plan—requesting $100,000 <br /> Director Leininger reminded the committee that the County awarded the City $75,000 to <br /> complete the Madison Park Master Plan. The plan is currently under way by the Cuyahoga <br /> County Planning Commission. The city is requesting $65,000 to quickly implement the plan's <br /> anticipated recommendations which will be forthcoming in late 2023. He added that the city is <br /> facing a lot of pressure on its capital needs and this proposal is intended to offset other costs. <br /> Councilmember Bullock committed $20,000 toward the proposal and referenced his additional <br /> $5,000 contribution toward the MC3 equipment including tables and chairs for community <br /> events. He asked for flexibility with the allocations. <br /> Councilmembers Marx, Litten, and Kepple each made contributions totaling $45,000 toward the <br /> proj ect. <br /> Downtown Parking Solar Canopy& EV Charging <br /> Councilmember Rader withdrew this proposal. <br /> Expanded Public Wifi <br /> Vice President Kepple requested this proposal be tabled while more information is gathered. <br /> ODOT Property acquisition—Requesting $120,000 <br /> Councilmember Baker reported that he and others had a call with ODOT and that ODOT is <br /> agreeable to sell the land to the city at below market price. He noted that there will still be many <br /> costs associated with acquiring the property such as surveying. He recommended that any funds <br /> leftover go towards a fund for improvements to the property. He clarified that the property in <br /> question includes Niagara Park and that ODOT is agreeable to establishing a lease regarding <br /> Niagara Park. <br /> 3 <br />