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January 26, 2021 <br /> <br />The following comments were submitted by citizens for the January 26, 2021 Virtual <br />City Council meeting: <br /> <br />21-17: <br />As a taxpayer, property owner. business owner and a resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, I <br />was stunned by the recent vote to deny 21-17 Use Permit for Lisa Murphey, Wilcox & <br />Savage representing Breeden Corporation and its proposal for 60 apartment units at 700 <br />Crawford Street. I feel this vote was shortsighted, irresponsible, and an insult to the hard- <br />working taxpaying citizens of this city. <br /> <br />While I understand the passion to help the underprivileged, this action directed at a <br />developer was inappropriate. The council's action raised numerous questions that I <br />believe an informed council should consider. <br /> <br />> If the developer pulled its proposal, how much money would the city not realize in the <br />sale of the property? <br /> <br />> What is the projected 30 year tax revenue on a property of this quality and value? <br /> <br />> What amounts of vehicle tax, meals/restaurant tax, and sales tax would the city lose if <br />the project did not come to fruition? <br /> <br />> How does the action to deny this project appear to other potential developers and what <br />is that cost? <br /> <br />Developments of this caliber always generate tax revenues, and in this project, the city is <br />not being asked for a dime. Exactly what we as a city should want. Increased tax revenues <br />allow for more funding for city agencies and its non-profits to utilize in order to lift up all of <br />our citizens. Certainly, our council members must realize where tax revenues are <br />generated and how projects of this value could ultimately lower individual and business <br />taxes. Therefore, I strongly encourage a YES vote for this development. Thank you for <br />your consideration. <br /> <br />Kenneth R. Woolard <br />462 Washington St., Apt. B <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />