Warning – Warning- Warning

Warning – Warning- Warning

Do not attempt to read this message if you have: high blood pressure; experience shortness of breath; or have heart conditions.

 

Approval of the revitalization plans for the both the East and North Corridor of Carson City was passed October 3^rd (the Downtown corridor was previously approved), this only allows City Staff to review the plans, and make recommendations. Additionally, we may have a sense of just how much each area could possibly cost, plus where the funding may possibly come from to make these improvements.

 

My opinion - the consensus from those presenting the revitalization plan for each zone focuses on similar items such as: sense of community; safety; lighting; pedestrian and bicycle friendly; attractiveness of the area; sidewalks and roadways. Isn't this a long-established and time-honored standard for all areas within our community? And, if it isn't – one has to wonder why.

 

Maybe the assumption could be made: that we are doing to this to improve the business districts thereby increasing sales tax revenue for the City.  And, if so then wouldn't it make sense to know each business within these corridors? Yes it would, however as of today - we do not know what businesses are in each corridor. If we knew this then we could have some idea of how much sale tax revenue is generated from each corridor. If the City is to allocate funding for these corridors knowing which one generates more sales tax revues is essential, because the higher the revenue the higher the priority for that corridor funding.

  

If we are going to spend tax payer's money – we better be fully prepared to have the reason why we want to spend their money and more important, how it will be reimbursed.

  

Keep in mind the City has a street and maintenance fund that has a one million dollar a year shortage, for how many years is the big question.

 

My suggestion would be - to use redevelopment funds or create a tax (if possible) for the businesses within these corridors that will benefit from these improvements. 

 

More than likely funding will come from the remaining 1/8 of a cent city sale tax. This can occur with a majority of the Board of Supervisors voting in favor of using this fund. 

 

Your input and opinion matters –

JShirk@carson.org