One point to keep in mind about the demise of NRP funding is that
the Lege didn't waive a wand over the TIF funds and "poof" they all
disappeared. As I understand it, the change is effective August 1st and
it affects only the taxes "certified" by taxing authorities after that
date. That means that on the taxes certified before that date, the TIF
money will still come through. I have no idea whether it may be
millions or $1.98 but I presume that NRP will tell everyone soon.
Whatever money is left, it's a real opportunity to pit neighborhood
against neighborhood for the remaining funds. Some neighborhoods
started early while others were late. Do the late comers get first pick
now? Or are the funds to be parceled out first come, first served? Or
how about the NRP policy board deciding on a project by project basis
based on which projects give the taxpayers the maximum bang for their
buck. However it is done, I hope it's not going to be a squabble.
Perhaps other funding sources for NRP will be found. At least it is
encouraging that the legislature left that door open since it didn't
repeal the NRP's implementation law. Unfortunately, I'll be surprised
if finding another source happens in the near future. The best shot
may be elections in 2002 and the 2003 legislative session. That would
be a gap of about 2 years, but maybe that time could be used usefully to
do planning for NRP II.
Steve Cross
Prospect Park
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