Lathrop Action Continues...a note from Pastor Bruce Ray

Hi everyone,On Monday, I attended the Lathrop Leadership Team meeting, where the TIF process was on the agenda.However, before I get to the TIF, the Lathrop Local Advisory Council (LAC) has planned a protest at the CHA Board Meeting on June 21.  They will be protesting the elimination of 525 units of public housing on-site outside the building and at the Board meeting.  LSEA Churches have been asked to participate if they are able.  The meeting will be held at the CHA headquarters at 60 E. Van Buren.  Board Committees meet at 10:00 am and the full Board meets at 11:00 am.  It is expected that the Board will consider approving $57 million toward Phase 1 of the Lathrop redevelopment.Re: The TIF District at Lathrop: The following dates are important as we continue to fight.

1. July 12 (Time TBA)  The Community Development Commission will meet to decide whether or not to recommend the TIF.  (It is VERY likely this will pass because all the Commission members are appointed by the Mayor.)  It is our understanding that public comment will be allowed.  Prior to the meeting, the LLT will give information about how we can email and phone blast each of the members of the Commission.  We will be looking for a small group to witness and give testimony on the day of the meeting.
2. July 21 (Time TBA)  The City Planning Commission (mayoral appointees and several aldermen) will meet to decide whether to recommend the TIF to the City Council Finance Committee.  (Again, it is likely to pass, but some members have been critical of the Lathrop Redevelopment and could be vocal opponents.)  One of the issues we will address is that the Historic Tax Credits have NOT been approved by the National Park Service—a key funding component for the redevelopment.  Public comment is allowed and we will be looking for a small group to witness and give testimony.

Once the TIF passes these two steps, it will go before the City Council Finance Committee and full City Council—likely in October 2016.Other topics were the HistoricRehab Tax Credits and the replacement of the 525 units of public housing in surrounding communities.  I’ll keep you posted as more definite plans are made on these topics.Have a great Wednesday…and hydrate!Bruce RayPastorKimball Avenue Churchwww.kimballavenuechurch.org773-278-1990