I do not support the proposed raising of property taxes to cover MCDA
shortfalls. The time is ripe for streamlining processes in City government.
With a large percentage of City employees set to retire, streamlining can be
accomplished without hardship. Raising porpery taxes is not a smart route
toward affordable housing.
I have first-hand experience partnering with the MCDA in housing development.
I purchased a lot-and-a-half from the MCDA to create three housing units here
on the block where I've lived for 19 years. Agency practices and requirements
added about 15% to the cost of the project. It cost me more to meet MCDA
requirements to purchase the parcel than to buy the lot itself.
Throughout my housing career I have been frustrated with the high level of
duplication and delay that plague the City's processes for housing
development. We need to reengineer the way we build homes (and other
projects), or we will never see the end of this housing crisis. Investigating
and eliminating the duplication in City (Parks, Schools, Admin, etc) and
County bureaucracies and processes would help keep taxes down and housing
more affordable. Also, de-centralizing the MCDA and putting those responsible
for development out in the neighborhoods where the development is happening
is a way to make Agency staff more effective.
Yours,
Robert Lilligren
Candidate for City Council
Ward 8, Phillips West
www.VoteRobert.com
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