Yesterday's telephone call with Vivian Moon revealed the following:
1) Goetz Tower Mixed-Use Project -- Still no signs of any re-construction since 12/2017 second extension of city's completion deadline requirement; 2) Former Senior Citizen's Center (BMW Motorcycle Shop) Project -- Still no signs of re-construction since 12/17 city conveyance approval including subsequent re-developer completion stipulations, etc.,; and, 3) Strand/Studio Theater Demolition -- Vickers Wrecking has nearly completed all work. Any guesses as to whom the city will later sell this 1300 block of Central Avenue property and for how much?
Other Topics:
1) Manchester Inn Project -- Nothing new to report from Mr. Grau who purchased this landmark from the city for the whopping sum of $1.00; 2) Snider Building Project -- Nothing new to report from Mr. Grau who purchased this landmark from the city for the whopping sum of $1.00; 3) Rose Furniture Building Project -- Nothing new to report on this long-lingering deal that received $300,000 in city funds a number of years ago; and, 4) Liberty Spirits LLC (Phase 2) Project -- Still speculating as to potential city sale of Strand/Studio property to Mike Robinette for a likely "nominal sum".
The above facts don't lie! They speak volumes about the utilization of millions in public funds, direct cash contributions, property tax exclusions, hours of city staff time, other consultant services, etc. for these "downtown" deals. Are Middletown taxpayers receiving a reasonable outcome for public funds spent to date?
It's a foregone conclusion that the City of Middletown's "downtown misadventures" won't ever receive HUD, National League of Cities, International City Manager's Association, American Planning Asssociation, National Association of Housing & Redevelopment Officials and Urban Land Institute "best practices" awards. And, just think how Middletown compares to nearby Hamilton, etc. in terms of project reinvestment dollars, construction and permanent jobs created, increased property values, etc. over the past decade.
One Donham Abbey senior staff and City Council members best hope that Forbes Magazine doesn't do a follow-up article on Middletown's "downtown" exploits of the past decade. Almost certainly, that wouldn't turn out to be a pleasurable read.
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