Laserfiche WebLink
195 <br /> <br /> Mr. Tarver explained that staff and the Planning Commission <br />were recommending a design concept only and the final plan would be <br />decided later. <br /> <br /> Mr. Iserson reiterated that staff recommendation stresses that <br />this was in concept only with the details to be worked out. He <br />pointed out that there is no funding for this at this time. <br /> <br /> Ms. Fulton reiterated that she is opposed to any changes to <br />the front of the Historical Museum. She felt very strongly that <br />some of the ambiance of Main Street needed to be kept. <br /> <br /> Thurmon Caudill, 4715-B Augustine Street, was opposed to this <br />project. He was concerned that the City would be torn up as other <br />cities have been. He did not believe that there was anythingwrong <br />with Main Street and nothing needed to be fixed. <br /> <br /> Ruby Greer, Main Street Spirits and Deli, 444 Main Street, <br />thanked everyone who has worked on this project. She supported the <br />Chamber of Commerce's position. She believed that restricting <br />ground floor to retail only is only asking for problems. She hoped <br />that more property owners will be cooperative with sharing parking <br />lots. <br /> <br /> Pat Lane, Executive Director of the Downtown Association, 603 <br />Main Street, was opposed to the restriction of retail only. She <br />thanked staff, Ms. Scribner and all other participants who have <br />worked on this project. <br /> <br /> Joe Callahan, Callahan Properties, reiterated the previous <br />speakers' comments regarding retail only restriction. He was <br />opposed to retail only because it would lead to disinvestment in <br />the downtown area. He complimented Ms. Scribner for her time and <br />effort put into this project. He stated the service area will not <br />support an additional 200,000 sq. ft. of retail. <br /> <br /> Mr. Tarver asked Mr. Callahan at what terms does he lease his <br />property. <br /> <br /> Mr. Callahan explained that it depends on the market. <br />Specialty businesses have an orientation of short-term leases on <br />the basis that they will be growing. The advantage of retail <br />businesses is that they usually have a trade area and an <br />anticipated business volume and therefore, a longer lease is <br />signed. He believed that a parking district should be instituted <br />regardless of property owner objections, so that the use of parking <br />could be equalized. Mr. Callahan also believed that Railroad <br />Avenue should be extended to Ray Street, and Ray Street and St. <br />John connected. He suggested this because circulation and access <br />are the key to successful retailing. <br /> <br />11/17/92 21 <br /> <br /> <br />