Minutes 08/08/2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Au.clust 8, 2000 - City Manager's Report - 00 - 192 - Adoption of a resolution approving an application to the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development seeking $100,000 in grant funding from the Virginia Derelict Building Removal Fund. These funds would be used for the elimination of derelict structures that negatively impact surround properties and the community. Recommendation: · Adoption of a resolution approving an application to the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development seeking $100,000 in grant funding from the Virginia Derelict Building Removal Fund. Purpose and Need: · The City faces a number of challenges funding the demolition of derelict structures, which cause a number of negative impacts on the surrounding properties and community. · The funds secured through the proposed grant are for the expansion of the number of structures in the neighborhoods bounded by Frederick Boulevard on the west, George Washington Boulevard and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard on the south, the southern branch of the Elizabeth River on the east and the western branch of the Elizabeth on the north, as identified in the grant application. · In addition to paying for the actual demolition, lot clearing and disposal of materials, these funds will be used to cover the "soft costs" of newspaper ads necessary for meeting the state's requirements of notification. Financial Impact: · The required minimum match for the requested $100,000 is already in the FY 2001 budget and at this time is being utilized for the demolition of the structures identified as "Sledge Hammer IIr'. · From July 1, 1999 to date the City has expended funds, not associated with any part of the previous grant award or match, in excess of $1000,000 that can be applied as an increase in the minimum match. · There will be a requirement that the funds must be spent within one year of the award. · There will be no additional staff costs associated with the award and implementation of the grant. Motion by Mr. Benn, and seconded by Mr. Whitehurst, to adopt the following resolution, and was adopted by the following vote: "A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AN APPLICATION BY THE CITY OF PORTSMOUTH FOR A COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA DERELICT STRUCTURES REMOVAL GRANT. WHEREAS, the City of Portsmouth, Virginia desires to improve the quality of life for its residents; and WHEREAS, the City of Portsmouth, Virginia recognizes the negative impact that abandoned and derelict buildings have on the surrounding community and on the city as a whole; and WHEREAS, abandoned and derelict buildings serve as an attraction to those persons who engage in illegal activities such as drug trafficking and use; and