Update: City went to site and located the water line Friday.
A frustrated Ted Duckworth spoke his mind to the Jackson City Council at its regular meeting yesterday, as he said a lack of cooperation from the city is delaying construction at The District at Eastover. (18:00 in the video posted below.)
Mr. Duckworth said The District project is stalled because Interim Economic Development Director Harold Lathon was "retrading the deal." He said the city was "Mickey Mousing around" in signing an agreement over environmental cleanup tax credits. Mr. Duckworth said he had been "working the deal since 2007" and it was very "frustrating", as they were told the agreement would be signed by the end of January. He said there had been no problems with the Johnson administration, but things changed when Mr. Lathon released employees in the planning department and tried to impose new conditions on the agreement.
Mr. Duckworth said the city is holding up the project over the matching funds for a "Brownfield rebate." The rebate is a DEQ program that allows a developer to recover 25% tax credits for environmental cleanup costs on a designated site. The state committed $1 million to the project under the program, but apparently requires a $150,000 in matching funds from the city. More information about DEQ Brownfield program. He said a $110 million project was being "held up" over $150,000 after the city had already committed a $7 million TIF (Tax Incremental Financing).
A visibly frustrated Mr. Duckworth said the project would lose tentants if "we did not get this thing done." He said there was a theater "deal on the table we will lose" if the project continues to languish.
The problems did not end with signing agreements, as co-developer Breck Hines said the department of public works would not come to the site and locate a thirty-inch water line. He said buildings can not be built unless this step takes place. "We can't get anybody at public works to come out and locate their line" said Mr. Hines. IF the line is not located, well, remember those videos posted on this site of geysers erupting on city streets? That is what will happen if the line is struck during construction. He said they had made "time commitments" to tenants and the delay meant they were in danger of losing them. Interim Public Works Director William Bell said they never spoke to him about the problem. They replied they were speaking to public works employee John Thompson. He seemed to take offense to the accusation of his department being accused over the inaction of one employee.
Mayor Lumumba said the developers should talk to him if the project is experiencing problems with the city. Mr. Duckworth told the Mayor he was not the "most accessible person, sir" as he threw his hands up in the air in exasperation. He said the Mayor gave him his card and he called his office only to get a meeting with the Mayor that turned into "a meeting with the chief of staff that turned into a meeting with Mr. Lathon there." The Mayor replied, "We will get you a meeting with me. I didn't know you were trying to get a meeting and I will make sure you get a meeting." Mr. Duckworth said he "just wanted to get the agreement signed."
The District project was placed on the agenda by Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon. She also demanded answers from the city on the Westin Hotel project, as she said it was stalled as well. He said Westin received $20 million from MDA (through Hinds County) and $18 million from private developers. The Mayor said the city is to commit $7 million but wanted to make sure it did not impact the city's bond rating.
Kingfish note: Notice all of these interim directors. Interim title means they do not have to be confirmed. What is also interesting is that Mr. Lathon admitted he was looking at moving the Westin Hotel project. See 5:50 of video. He told Councilwoman Simon, "Oh yeah, there has been discussion about it" and that such discussion had been recent. Interesting.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Developers say project stalled because city is "Mickey Mousing around" (Video)
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56 comments:
Nothing but a shakedown from Detroit !
Unfortunate....the City of Jackson is certainly encouraging more development.......in Madison and Rankin Counties.
The "hat lady" was in error, its been a new day for about 15 years.
This video is an embarrassment to those who are trying to improve the city of Jackson. Unfortunately, the level of incompetency shown in this video has been going on for quite a while.
I wonder why Duckworth thought it would be any different than in the past? um, YO! TED! white boyz ain't welcome!!!
Y'all are without a clue how business gets done in the Kush.
Perhaps the good mayor misunderstands. It seems Mr. Duckworth doesn't want a meeting. He just wants shit done.
Not unusual. Try getting a routine permit from the city to replace, at your expense, a half-dozen cracked and hazardous sidewalk sections in front of your building. Can't be done.
no, 8:26 AM, the king of kush does in fact understand. he just wants the opportunity to show off his leather day planner.
"Any new or improved commercial development within the city of Jackson, MS, with construction or renovation beginning on or after March 6, 2001 shall provide, at cost to the developer, suitable, direct public transit access connecting with the JSU campus and Stewpot Community Services.
Such connection to be contracted at the will and pleasure of the Jackson City Council at their sole discretion, unencumbered by any form of bid or RFP process, with all costs and assessments borne by the developer of said project.
Such developments or renovations must also incorporate a Red/Green/Black color scheme, observe minority set asides and subcontracting as determined suitable by The Council."
Source: Minutes, Jackson City Council, Regular Session, March 5, 2001, approved, filed, quorum, volume 3, 2001.
8:38, just do it. Don't ask them for permission to fix your sidewalk. They'll fumble it up somehow. They are completely incompetent, especially that Thompson guy mentioned in the video. They will work hard to find 50 ways to sit on their ass and do nothing when doing the right thing would have been easier!
GREAT reporting Kingfish! This video, which I highly recommend you watch all of, truly gives a lot of insight into what its like to do business in Jackson and to get anything done in Jackson. To the Mayor's credit, he at least in political speak seems willing to meet to get these things moving. However, it appears that he has appointed a stumbling block in the form of Mr. Lathon to progress for the city. (I think I just stated the obvious.)
Obviously, Ted did not read the chapter about cooperative socially-just models of ownership in the Kush City Charter.
Mr. Mayor,
A meeting is not necessary. An executive, who one would suppose has interest in stopping the backslide Jackson has been on for the past several decades, would be proactive and demand a meeting time with Mr. Duckworth instead of attempting to "kingly" pass the buck. Or better yet, just say honor the city's commitment to the project, even though it was a prior administration, unless you can articulate why it should not be honored.
I've been a Jackson resident for 44 years, a business owner for 20 years and have never owned a business whose address is within the city limits. It's never been a conscious effort to avoid Jackson, it's just been doing what is best for employees and the business model itself. I applaud any effort someone puts forth to have to battle things that should not even be a discussion, much less a battle, in order to quiet the naysayers. I have personally not put my money where my mouth is, though I have always stated I will stay in Jackson out of commitment and the "potential" for business growth. I would love to see my city become a place people want to invest in and not a fiefdom of attempted retribution and acquiescence towards remaining so.
Please get out of the way. Government is not supposed to be this involved in business, but this is the modern U.S. we live in. But get out of the way and do your best to make Jackson more appealing to those who would invest their time, money and effort to improve it.
This appears to be the single most significant investment in Jackson that would work to retain and possibly build households in the city. It should be a tax positive investment to the city, a quality of life improvement for those living here and a feather in your cap, if that is all that matters to you.
Anybody taste the chitlins at Whole Foods yet?
While I agree with some of your comments, it is also fair to say that Duckworth chose the wrong forum to vent his frustrations. More than that, to invoke Harvey Johnson and the terminated planning department personnel is petty at best. Perhaps, the good old days are gone. Perhaps, the the hookups have left the building. Perhaps, more is needed that a mere 150k grant. For the record, being a cry baby will not get things done any faster.
I think pointing a finger is fine as long as you remember there are three others pointed at the originator.
If the City doesn't get its act together so be it. We all have options here. I'm not sure about the references about the Land of Kush but they too are in bad taste.
I read this blog daily, but I think its time we channel our energies toward things that are constructive.
There are some positive things happening in Jackson i.e. the Westin, Iron Horse Grill, The Civil Rights Museum, Capitol Street Improvements, UMMC locating a clinic in the CBD, and the District of Eastover. Rather than destroying the City try supporting it. Join the Chamber, volunteer for a cause.
Why would anyone invest money in a community where you don't have a seat at the table?
You cant get anything done and no one is willing to help.
Ted, make a call to Mayor Rhodes and I bet he will buy your lunch.
Nothing on the list that 9:55 mentioned is a stand alone private investment. They all required public financing to some degree. Let the market work. It will be painful to let things bottom out on their own, but the eventual come back will be accelerated if we will just quit propping things up with state tax dollars.
Who did Ted bring in from the minority community to get a piece of the action and make some money from this? This is a black city and black people should share the money to be gained by this development.Real simple Ted..
Harold Lathon was terminated from the planning department during the Johnson administration and was terminated from a similar position with the Delta Regional council. My question is why would Mayor Lumumba hire someone who has a proven record of incompetence. No wonder the projects are not moving.
Re: 11:06 am
Urp
Let's have a meeting about how all of these people are incompetent. It seems like all they have done is meet about different topics.
10:49: "They (developments within Jackson proper) all required public financing to some degree."
You're right about the list. What is the difference between that and the shopping malls that were developed in the surrounding areas (Renaissance and the Outlets) that also required public financing?
Were you also complaining when the State used tax dollars to build a shopping mall in Pearl?
I'm not talking down about the suburbs or anything that was built there. I just think you are using a double standard.
Just a reminder that it is the NE Jax handwringers who ultimately got Lumumba elected. Reap what you sow.
Well done guys and it is sad you had to go this far for progress in a DEAD city. Yes I live in Rankin County and want the District At Eastover to be built as it is time for growth in that area. I have worked with developers in the city for years and this has been going on for many many years. I say just get it done and by-pass the City on everything as "Most" of the officials are incompetent. The constituents are equally incompetent and don't know what progress looks like.
NIKNAR
10:20 AM needs to get over themselves. Don't like the content or comments? Tough.
Just a reminder that it is the NE Jax handwringers who ultimately got Lumumba elected. Reap what you sow.
YUP. The crackers shot themselves in the foot again.
It's amazing that the Jackson haters all post as anon and attack people working for something good. I suggest you come out of your trailer and go toe to toe with Leland, Ben or any Jackson supporter. Otherwise form a blog called Pearl Jambalaya and see how many followers you get.
As a fan of Mickey Mouse, I am offended by those comments. Mickey built an empire. Jackson, MS ain't no Disney World.
Anonymous @ 12:49 complains about anonymous commenters. LOL Go get 'em Fido!
Wait what about the Westin? Are they forcibly moving it to the Jackson State campus?
NW Jxn elected Lumumba???? What election returns are you reading? Last I saw, NE Jxn voted heavily for Lee. Great to make comments, if and when you are at least somewhat correct. Until you get there, go join your buddies at the Tea Party - they don't worry about facts.
Lee never had a chance in Hades. The Marshand Crisler of 2013.
Shakedown, by the Mayor's hatchet man, Lathon.Is the Delta Regional Council in Memphis?
Sharing that Lathon doesn't have the "institutional knowledge" was code for calling him ignorant. Which he is.
The problem with locating the 30 inch water main is that they only use dowsing rods in the Kush and Chuckie's crew can't find one big enough to do the job.
Run for your lives
Move out of the city and never look back
What an absolute ZOO !!!!!!
Ted should have known better .......
(i lived in Jackson from 1957-2010)so I can say my piece. The 2 factions in Jackson, really do NOT have to get along or support each others plans, developments and life styles. One of the groups will put up with, or move or stay where they are til they die. The other group has a different agenda as well as different priorities. Sadly, it appears we will have a second coming of Chimneyville, before we get Jackson back where she belongs. At the TOP not the bottom of the heap.
Before doing business in Jackson, watch the video. Your time, money and effort will be mismanaged by city government. That is a tough hurdle.
I guess I'm confused. At the eleventh hour Duckworth is asking city taxpayers to kick in another $150,000 so he can become eligible for an additional $1 million subsidy from DEQ - but the City is the one trying to "re-trade the deal"? As a city taxpayer, I'm wondering why Duckworth doesn't figure out a way to give the $150,000 to the City, which can then give it back to the project which primes the pump for the DEQ match. Duckworth still comes out $850,000 richer.
"There are some positive things happening in Jackson i.e. the Westin, Iron Horse Grill, The Civil Rights Museum, Capitol Street Improvements, UMMC locating a clinic in the CBD, and the District of Eastover. Rather than destroying the City try supporting it. Join the Chamber, volunteer for a cause."
Do this so the majority will work against you on every front. When people do big things it looks like MAGIC to them.
no, 4:56pm, you are not confused.
you are simply attempting to redirect, fully knowing how you are misrepresenting facts. Here's a hint for you, though. Your conscious is what forced you to start your illegitimate comment off with "I guess I'm confused" because you simply could not shoot off that load of B.S. you posted without such a precursor.
Go ahead and keep trying to get approval from Sal Alinski
"Great reporting Kingfish."
Sorry, there's an echo in here.
As a Rankin citizen, I would like to add something to Jackson......Pearl....its all yours.
Fascinating video. That these buffoons are able to successfully execute obvious shakedowns is truly amazing.
Clownishness
I choose to live in 39211 because I love it. I think all of the haters who post on here from other cities are just jealous. Living in a fake stucco house in a former cow pasture with no trees certainly must get old.
As for The District, I am glad Ted and Breck have the vision to bring new and exciting ideas to central MS. I am sure many of the haters in Madison will frequent the upscale theater (just like the Madison haters frequenting Whole Foods). People should be glad progress is being made for everyone in central MS to enjoy.
The issue here is at best does the city want to do business or not.
9:01 there is no need to be like that. I live in a house in Madison that is made of bricks with no stucco to be found. I have dozens of very old trees on my property. I would be glad to have the District succeed. I probably wouldn't visit the movie theater, not when I have Malco 3 minutes away. I would visit whatever interesting shops happen to be in the District.
I don't believe people in Madison want things in Jackson to fail. I'd like to believe people in Jackson don't waste their time thinking bad things about Madison either.
What is good for one is good for the other.
The shake down and destruction of legitimate business is in full effect
The Mayor is taking care of his friend as he states on the video and it continues as it did on the contract with Waggoner and Andrew where the mayor insisted that the percentage of ownership in a joint venture be 60 per cent Jenkins and 40 percent Waggoner illegal at best
Ted will pay up or leave town.No honest person will touch Jenkins or Waggoner.
This better not fail. We just reclaimed our wal mart. And now we are very close to getting our movie theatre back too. There might be hope for madison yet. Now, if we could just burn down JSU.
9:18 pm, I'm sure 9:01 pm has just had it with the constant attacks on Jackson in general and on those who choose to stay in particular.
There was probably some hope that since stating reasons for staying in Jackson didn't work, a taste of the haters own medicine might.
Not all houses in Madison are tacky, of course, but more than a few are actually spec nightmares so those who live in glass houses should be reminded not to cast stones.
Neither Madison nor Jackson are Utopias.
As free citizens we ought to get to choose which problems and pluses we can best tolerate.
Besides, there's not a white Southerner with an IQ in double digits that doesn't know what this Jackson bashing is really about.
7:47, we are not worthy.
Bullshit post above suggesting the 'Outlet Mall' was built with public funds.
Varying degrees of 'public money' wind up in most if not all large developments.
Some are in the form of tax abatements (in exchange for jobs, some involve complex infrastructure improvements and others, like the Taj Majal train station are 100% grant money secured by Harvey.
However, it is ALWAYS the first and primary goal of a black-majority city administration to get 'them' to pay for it. If at all, the last consideration is 'What can WE do?' or 'Where are the private investors?'
Looks like it worked...the City of Jackson is out there right now locating the pipe.
11:44, bullshit to your bullshit. The Outlets of Mississippi certainly were built, in part, with the help of public funds.
http://www.msnewsnow.com/story/21192820/pearl-outlet-mall-to-be-tourism-hotspot
Now, please tell me. Were you complaining when the shopping mall in Rankin County received help from the State?
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