| |
|
CASTLE SHANNON REVITALIZATION CORPORATION
Meeting with Jessica Mooney/Jeb Feldman
Allegheny County Economic Development
February 2, 2010
Mike Warhold and Tom Hartswick met with the above representatives from Allegheny County Economic Development.
Mr. Warhold discussed a meeting with Brian Graham, President of the Brentwood Business Owners Association. Ms. Mooney stated that the county has worked with a variety of area business associations, including the BBOA and Economic Development South on a variety of projects including street scapes and various economic corridors.
Mr. Warhold stated that it would be the Castle Shannon Revitalization Corporation's (CSRC) benefit to speak with Ben Lodico, Co Vice President of BBOA, who works in the borough at Edward Jones Investments.
At this point in time, Mr. Warhold updated Ms. Mooney and Mr. Feldman on the status of the CSRC:
- The 501 (c)(3) designation has been achieved.
- Committees have been established.
- A website presence is being reviewed.
- A CDBG application for $30,000 was approved.
- Dewey & Kaye completed the strategic planning seminar.
- The following activities were planned for this year:
A. Continuation of the Shannon Hero's Banner program for Memorial Day and Veteran's Day
B. Development of a multi-phase community garden
C. Proposed farmer's market
D. Painting a mural on the PAT wall on Willow Avenue
After the update, discussions shifted to the Shannon Station project. All agreed that linking the Shannon Station to Castle Shannon's downtown district is a must. Various comments were made about the status and the funding activities for the station. It should be noted that both Mr. Peher and Mr. Durakis no longer work for the county, thus TIF (tax increment financing) progression may be impacted.
Ms. Mooney stated that the county was actively involved in the RFP for the Mt. Oliver project, which was more of a physical environment analysis than a demographic/business condition study. A different RFP was discussed, and she stated she would e-mail to Mr. Hartswick the latest version.
Mr. Feldman stated the farmer's market concept was interesting, but there are many difficulties to be addressed. The name Castle Shannon Market Place was determined for the event.
The discussion then shifted to the possibility of county funds to assist with business development. Ms. Mooney indicated that county money was primarily used for property and equipment purchasing. The mix of the county's small business loan program historically was 60/30/10; maximum $250,000 with one job created for every $35,000 loaned. The applications are available online. There is a rolling loan period and the county requires a business plan to be in place prior to their possible participation.
The meeting was concluded with Ms. Mooney indicating the county was willing to assist the CSRC in its consultant interview activities and in the potential selection of a consultant. Mr. Warhold referenced the February 10th CSRC meeting and hoped one of them could be able to attend. Mr. Warhold thanked Ms. Mooney and Mr. Feldman for their time and stated he looked forward to seeing the revised RFP.
|
|
|
