George Amedore & Christian Klueg for NYS Senate 2016 Pete Vroman for State Assembly 2016[/size][/color]
"For this is what America is all about. It is the uncrossed desert and the unclimbed ridge. It is the star that is not reached and the harvest that is sleeping in the unplowed ground." Lyndon Baines Johnson
More businesses in the city -- like Madison Handbags -- means a bigger tax base and more revenue to fund the necessary services provided by the city.
George Amedore & Christian Klueg for NYS Senate 2016 Pete Vroman for State Assembly 2016[/size][/color]
"For this is what America is all about. It is the uncrossed desert and the unclimbed ridge. It is the star that is not reached and the harvest that is sleeping in the unplowed ground." Lyndon Baines Johnson
A bigger tax base? Be real. All your democrap dreams are coming true- you have destroyed the middle class and populated the city with dirtbags on welfare, you have criminals running wild so more jobs at levels of government to deal with it, and you have all the special interests in the bag! The democrap/copservative party is doing great, everyone else- not so much!
"While Foreign Terrorists were plotting to murder and maim using homemade bombs in Boston, Democrap officials in Washington DC, Albany and here were busy watching ME and other law abiding American Citizens who are gun owners and taxpayers, in an effort to blame the nation's lack of security on US so that they could have a political scapegoat."
Bunch of lies about the taxbase. Let's full circle this:
Metroplex takes multi-million dollar properties off the tax base ..and for decades
These multi-million properties use City services (fire/police protection, plowing, sidewalks, sewer) for FREE ..for decades
The City taxpayers pay for multi-million dollar properties to receive free City services and have to make up for the loss in school and property taxes..for decades
I'm guessing there is no legislation in place that would prohibit the abolishment of Metroplex and reverse all the tax free deals.
Most of these businesses would leave because they couldn't afford the taxes and/or they cannot function without government handouts. Either way, if they can't survive independently in the City of Schenectady, then they shouldn't be here at all.
I'm guessing there is no legislation in place that would prohibit the abolishment of Metroplex and reverse all the tax free deals.
Most of these businesses would leave because they couldn't afford the taxes and/or they cannot function without government handouts. Either way, if they can't survive independently in the City of Schenectady, then they shouldn't be here at all.
I'm sure the plex could be abolished. It clearly can not continue to exist as was promised from it's inception. And it makes one wonder.........perhaps these businesses couldn't survive or exist anywhere BUT schenectady. No one comes to schenectady ON PURPOSE.......unless someone gives them and offer they can't refuse.
When the INSANE are running the ASYLUM In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule. -- Friedrich Nietzsche
“How fortunate for those in power that people never think.” Adolph Hitler
And it makes one wonder.........perhaps these businesses couldn't survive or exist anywhere BUT schenectady. No one comes to schenectady ON PURPOSE.......unless someone gives them and offer they can't refuse.
Totally true. Let's take this a step further...why haven't any other restaurants opened downtown? Because EVERY new entity wants the same deal as Bombers. Bombers, in essence, is getting paid by every taxpayer to stay here and Mexican Radio would want the same.
Not necessarily because Mexican Radio is greedy, but more importantly METROPLEX HAS CREATED AN UNFAIR PLAYING FIELD. No other restaurants can compete if the government is funding the business down the street. It's a standstill and once all the money runs out, Downtown is stuck.
That's why we're seeing SCCC and other businesses from down the street move Downtown, because they're already on the Plex payroll.
another restaurant has opened downtown.. it opened in the former chez daisy location. also, there are no other spots avl downtown, prime spots, for a new restaurant.
metroplex has leveled the playing field, helping businesses move in that would not otherwise want to. your attacks on metroplex are specious
again -- if the tea-partiers/GOPers/Nayboobs were in office and Madison Handbags decided to come to Schenectady .. the tea-partiers/GOPers/Nayboobs would be shouting "Hallelujah" from the rooftops and thumping their chests and saying how great they were ----------------- the fact is that the dimwit Nayboobs are NOT in office so they have to complain about a new business coming and they have to tear down anyone who is either involved in it coming or who is happy that it is coming.
Wake up and smell the coffee -- the Nayboobs are Rhinesmith, Surhada, Mertz, Buchanan, Parisi, Tomaselli, Villano, McGarry et al .........all rigid partisan neo-conservative tea-partiers and GOP members or sympathizers. No one expects much - actually anything good - from the Nayboobs .. because they have done nothing but tear down our community for years.
George Amedore & Christian Klueg for NYS Senate 2016 Pete Vroman for State Assembly 2016[/size][/color]
"For this is what America is all about. It is the uncrossed desert and the unclimbed ridge. It is the star that is not reached and the harvest that is sleeping in the unplowed ground." Lyndon Baines Johnson
You really have to come to Schenectady more, maybe do some footwork with McCarthy sometime. How much empty space in Center City? How much empty space on Jay? Key Hall - empty. Olander - soon-to-be empty. Go down the street by DMV - empty.
How about Erie? An empty Grossmans, empty former Frank Gallo (complete with graffiti), empty former Kem.......EMPTY TRUSTCO.
Come on, Metroplex has decimated that tax base AND keeps giving handouts to connected for-profit businesses. I'm just a taxpayer tired of having my services cut (firefighters don't even have proper gear) and paying for businesses to suck the life out of me.
It's funny how the word 'attack' is used when the overburdened concerned taxpayers question the system. I thought that was just a liberal media tactic.
It would have been worded more accurately had you said.... ...your opinions ...your preceptions ...your concerns ...your FACTS
Instead you chose to use the word ATTACK??? hmmmmmmmmm.......interesting.......
When the INSANE are running the ASYLUM In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule. -- Friedrich Nietzsche
“How fortunate for those in power that people never think.” Adolph Hitler
: What is the mission of the Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority? A: Our mission is to enhance the long-term economic vitality and quality of life in Schenectady County. We do this through cooperative, purposeful actions and investments, with a particular emphasis on downtown.
Q: What types of activities does Metroplex do? A: We can design, plan, finance, site, construct, administer, operate, manage, and maintain facilities within our service district.
Q: What kind of project aid is available? A: Aid comes in several forms. We provide the grants and loans that are the traditional tools of development agencies. We also provide technical assistance and try to connect businesses with the resources and information they need to continue to grow their business in Schenectady County. Usually Metroplex assistance is matched by private financing on a matching basis with a larger share of project costs coming from private financing.
Q: Where do you get the funds? A: Metroplex is funded through dedicated sales tax revenues, 70 percent of one-half of one percent of county sales tax.
Q: What areas do you serve? A: Metroplex's original service district of 24 square miles stretches along Routes 5 and 7, which converge near the city's downtown. Several communities in the county have opted to join the authority, so that its territory has now expanded to about 84 square miles. Metroplex Boundaries Map
Q: Can I give some suggestions or voice concerns about any of the projects Metroplex is involved in? A: Metroplex operates under the NYS Open Meetings Law, solicits public input, seeks consensus on all projects, and works in cooperation with Schenectady County and the City of Schenectady, often partnering with them on major capital projects.
Q: Where can I get more financial information on the Metroplex and its projects? Public Authority Reporting Page A: You can get more information by calling us at (51 377-1109, or by fax at (51 382-2575. You can also send us a request by clicking here, and we will mail you information.
Q: What kind of credit rating does Metroplex have? A: Metroplex has investment grade credit ratings from three of Wall Street's leading firms. We received an "A" rating from both Standard and Poor and Fitch, and the prestigious "A2" rating from Moody's.
Q: How can I get in touch with someone at Metroplex? A: You can contact us by calling (51 377-1109, or click here to send us an email.
...you are a product of your environment, your environment is a product of your priorities, your priorities are a product of you......
The replacement of morality and conscience with law produces a deadly paradox.
STOP BEING GOOD DEMOCRATS---STOP BEING GOOD REPUBLICANS--START BEING GOOD AMERICANS
Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority Board Meeting Minutes August 10, 2011
Present: Ray Gillen, Sharon Jordan, Neil Golub, Bob Mantello, Ed Capovani, Bob Wall, John Mallozzi, Bill Chapman and Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas
Absent: Brad Lewis, John Mallozzi and Janet Hutchison
Others: Jayme Lahut, Jim Callander and Scott Cietek
Call to Order: Mr. Gillen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1. Approval of Minutes: Mr. Golub moved adoption of the June 15 meeting minutes; seconded by Ms. Jordan and approved.
2. Treasurer’s Report: Mr. Wall reviewed the Treasurer’s Report ending July 31, 2011 which was distributed prior to the meeting. He highlighted the rising sales tax receipts year to date, which made revenues slightly under budget for the period. Operating expenses were also under budget. Cash on hand totaled $2,930,500. Discussion followed about sales tax forecasts. Mr. Golub moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report; seconded by Mr. Capovani and approved.
3. Foster Building Stabilization Project: Resolution 719-11 — Award Asbestos Abatement Contract
Metroplex publicly bid work for asbestos and debris removal within the Foster Building complex. Abatement was completed in the Foster Hotel last fall. Four firms submitted qualified bids with Four Strong Builders, Inc. from Clifton, NJ submitting the low bid at $239,900. Mr. Capovani moved Resolution 719-11; seconded by Mr. Wall. Discussion followed regarding prospective developers interest in acquiring and redeveloping the site. Resolution 719-11 was unanimously approved.
4. Downtown Parking Project: Resolution 720-11— Amend State Assistance Contract for Broadway South Lot (NYS DEC Environmental Restoration Program)
The State’s Environmental Restoration Program (ERP) can provide up to 90 percent reimbursement for clean-up costs associated with remediation of two locations in the Broadway South Lot. Resolution 720-11 authorized funding remediation up to $135,000 and thereby recouping from DEC up to 90 percent of eligible costs. Mr. Mantello moved Resolution 720-11; seconded by Ms. Zalewski-Wildzunas and unanimously approved.
5. 2011 Parking Infrastructure Improvements (Broadway South Lot): Resolution 721-11 Approve the General Project Plan
Since National Grid and DEC have proposed soil removal and clean-up in a broad area of the Broadway South lot, Metroplex can sequence lot reconstruction at considerable savings because Grid will replace much of the site infrastructure as part of its work plan. Metroplex work will include installing curbing, resurfacing and restriping the lot, new lighting, fencing, planting grass and some repair to the historic Weigh Station. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 721-11; seconded by Ms. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Discussion followed about the Grid’s contamination work and adaptive reuses for the Weigh Station. Resolution 721-11 was unanimously approved.
6. Lofts at Union Square Project: Resolution 722-11 — Adopt the General Project Plan
Project plans call for demolition of existing vacant structures and constructing rental housing at the northwest corner of Union and Barrett Streets. The two-phased project envisions 8 two-story row house units with attached single-car garages on Barrett Street and a 3-story, 14-unit apartment building on Union Street. Metroplex participation is limited to phase-one by making a $150,000 grant for demolition and site preparation and $200,000 construction / permanent loan as part of the $1,543,000 project. The phase-two budget is $1.6 million. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 722-11; seconded by Mr. Capovani. Discussion followed about the need for downtown housing and boosting the Union Street corridor. Resolution 722-111 was approved.
7. LaSartoria Clothing Store: Resolution 723-11 — Approve the General Project Plan
The project involved tenant fit-up of two storefronts on pedestrian Jay Street selling men’s and women’s apparel. The tenant, Grupo Lucano, LLC, plans to improve and upgrade the spaces and make significant investment in inventory. Metroplex participation involves a $15,000 grant and a $50,000 loan. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 723-11; seconded by Ms. Zalewski-Wildzunas. After brief discussion, Resolution 723-11 was approved.
8. Franklin Street Redesign Grant: Resolution 724-11 Make Application and Adopt the General Project Plan
The project involved making a grant application to the NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation and a matching grant in support of studying redesign of Franklin Street from Vale Park to City Hall. The study is estimated to cost $71,000. It is intended to assess transforming the excessively wide street to more landscaped green space, bike tail and linking Vale Park and Central Park to downtown. Mr. Capovani moved Resolution 724-11; seconded by Ms. Zalewski-Wildzunas. After brief discussion, Resolution 724-11 was unanimously approved.
9. Public Comment: None
10. Board Comment: Mr. Gillen reported on the Governor’s recent formation of Regional Councils.
11. Adjournment: Ms. Jordan moved to adjourn; seconded by Mr. Wall. The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jayme B. Lahut Executive Director
...you are a product of your environment, your environment is a product of your priorities, your priorities are a product of you......
The replacement of morality and conscience with law produces a deadly paradox.
STOP BEING GOOD DEMOCRATS---STOP BEING GOOD REPUBLICANS--START BEING GOOD AMERICANS
Schenectady Metroplex Development Authority Board Meeting Minutes June 15, 2011
Present: Ray Gillen, Sharon Jordan, Neil Golub, Bob Mantello, John Mallozzi, Bill Chapman and Karen Zalewski-Wildzunas
Absent: Bob Wall, Ed Capovani and Janet Hutchison
Others: Jayme Lahut, Jim Callander and Scott Cietek
Call to Order: Mr. Gillen called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
1. Approval of Minutes: Mr. Mantello moved adoption of the April 29, 2011 meeting minutes; seconded by Ms. Jordan and approved.
2. Treasurer’s Report: Jayme Lahut reviewed the Treasurer’s Report ending May 31, 2011 which was distributed prior to the meeting. He noted that sales tax receipts increased and revenues were on target with budget, while the expenses are slightly over budget through five months. Cash on hand was $2,331,000. Mr. Golub moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report; seconded by Ms. Jordan and approved.
The environmental review of the Transfinder project clearly fell with the parameters of the original Proctors Block Findings Statement adopted by the Board in November 2003. The building at 440 State Street is historically significant. When Proctors accepted a $150,000 Heritage Area grant for the building about ten years ago, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) imposed certain deed restrictions requiring, among other things, adherence to federal preservation standards. Metroplex and Proctors convinced OPRHP to lift the requirement in order for Transfinder to acquire and renovate the building, while preserving the historically significant facade and expand the space to 26,000 square feet. Consequently the SEQRA resolution amends to prior Findings Statement and Resolution 711-11 determined that the project does not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts. Mr. Golub moved Resolution 711-11; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Following discussion about OPRHP and SEQRA, Resolution 711-11was approved.
4. Transfinder Corporation Relocation Project: Resolution 712-11 — Adopt the General Project Plan
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Schenectady, Transfinder Corporation applies MapInfo’s industry-leading mapping technology and database management to deliver superior transportation and logistics management solutions. The company’s products allow school districts to manage bus routes, provide safe and efficient student transportation, and access a wealth of critical district information. Owned by Antonio Civitella, a Schenectady native, the company has more than doubled its sales in the past three years and has outgrown its leased space at 120 Erie Blvd. Plans call for demolishing a portion of the structure at 440 State Street and enlarging the building to 26,000 square feet for consolidating and expanding the company’s corporate headquarters. The total project cost is $4.2 million. Metroplex participation includes a $150,000 project renovation grant, a $60,000 façade grant and a partial exemption from real property taxes until March 1, 2012. Mr. Mantello moved Resolution 712-11; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Discussion followed and Mr. Gillen showed a rendering of the facility. Resolution 712-11 was unanimously approved.
5. Proctor’s Theatre Project: Resolution 713-11— Amend the General Project Plan
Resolution 713-11 facilitated the Transfinder transaction by amending a promissory note with Proctors and revising the loan repayment schedule. Proctors originally borrowed $600,000 from Metroplex for construction in 2007, and repaid $300,000. When Transfinder acquires 440 State Street, Proctors then repays $150,000 to Metroplex that will then be used to repay OPRHP for Heritgae Area grant to Proctors thereby removing the deed restrictions on 440 State Street. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 713-11; seconded by Mr. Chapman. Following discussion, Resolution 713-11 was unanimously approved.
6. Schenectady Heritage Visitor Center Project: Resolution 714-11 — Adopt the General Project Plan
Resolution 714-11 advances $220,000 in funding for a new Visitor Center located at Proctors. In turn, a $180,000 DOT Scenic Byway Grant secured by the City will reduce the outlay upon project completion. The Visitor Center will feature exhibit panels highlighting local history, digital and video displays, a retractable stage for occasional live events, and promote Schenectady County tourism. Work will be completed by mid-July. Total project cost of $220,000 included the DOT funding plus Metroplex participation matching funds. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 714-11; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. Following discussion, Resolution 714-11 was approved.
7. Clinton’s Ditch Expansion Project: Resolution 715-11 — Determination of No Significance on the Environment / SEQRA Negative Declaration
Clinton’s Ditch project involved constructing a 2,250 square foot addition for an expanded kitchen, upgraded service area, reconfigured lavatories, handicap accessibility, and more seating and banquet space. The site of a former City firehouse, the new structure’s façade will emulate features of the old firehouse including an overhead door that opens to the street during pleasant weather. Resolution 715-11 addressed the state-mandated environmental review by classifying the project as an Unlisted Action and having no significant effect on the environment. Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas moved Resolution 715-11; seconded by Ms. Jordan and approved.
8. Clinton’s Ditch Expansion Project: Resolution 716-11 — Adopt the General Project Plan
Metroplex participation involved making a $30,000 façade grant in support of the notable exterior design and forgiving the outstanding balance (about $31,000) of its $50,000 loan for the original renovation in 2005. Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas moved Resolution 716-11; seconded by Mr. Mantello. Discussion followed and Resolution 716-11 was unanimously approved.
In April, Metroplex disseminated a Request for Qualifications to a dozen parking management companies doing business in NYS. Three proposals were received from Laz Parking, Republic Parking (Worcester, MA) and SP Plus Municipal Services, a division of Standard Parking (New York, NY). With the concurrence of the Fiscal Audit Committee, a multi-year contract was negotiated with Laz Parking for the on-going management and operation of the downtown parking system. Key provisions included a Five-year term with two-year renewal; compensation remains effectively unchanged (annual fee of $80,000 with an incentive of 8 percent of gross revenues not to exceed an additional $80,000 per year), and annual operating expenses based upon the Metroplex budget. Mr. Golub moved Resolution 717-11; seconded by Mr. Chapman. Brief discussion followed and Resolution 717-11 was unanimously approved.
10. Program Management Services: Resolution 718-11 — Renew Contract with T. Wilson & Associates, LLC
In 2009, the Board retained T Wilson & Associates for a three-year term following an RFP procurement to assist Metroplex staff with coordinating construction and renovation projects taking place in downtown and in Schenectady County. The current year contract expired on April 30. The third year of the contract was negotiated for $8,000 per month. Ms. Jordan moved Resolution 718-11; seconded by Mr. Chapman and unanimously approved.
11. Public Comment: None
12. Board Comment: General discussion among the members followed.
13. Adjournment — Mr. Golub moved to adjourn; seconded by Mrs. Zalewski-Wildzunas. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Jayme B. Lahut Executive Director
...you are a product of your environment, your environment is a product of your priorities, your priorities are a product of you......
The replacement of morality and conscience with law produces a deadly paradox.
STOP BEING GOOD DEMOCRATS---STOP BEING GOOD REPUBLICANS--START BEING GOOD AMERICANS
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