HomeMy WebLinkAboutCRA-R-10-0026 Cover Memo 05-13-2010SEOPW Board of Commissioners Meeting
May 13, 2010
SOUTHEAST OVERTOWN/PARK WEST
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
INTER -OFFICE MEMORANDUM
To: Board Chair Richard P. Dunn II
and Members of the CRA Board
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Fro +a s H. Villacorta
Executive Director
Date: May 3, 2010 File: 10-00533
Subject: Resolution Authorizing Purchase of the
Property at 300 N.W. 11th Street, Miami, FL.
References:
Enclosures: Supporting Documentation; Legislation
BACKGROUND:
It is recommended that the Board of Commissioners of the Southeast Overtown/Park West Community
Redevelopment Agency ("CRA") approve and adopt the attached Resolution authorizing the purchase of the
property at 300 N.W. 11th Street, Miami, Florida, for an amount not to exceed $300,000, plus customary closing
costs, adjustments, and prorations.
The property at 300 N.W. 11th Street, Miami, FL, also known as Ebenezer Methodist Church, is listed on the
registry of historic sites for both the City of Miami and the State of Florida. Moreover, the 2009 Southeast
Overtown/Park West Redevelopment Plan recognizes the Ebenezer Methodist Church as a historic structure of
major importance within the Redevelopment Area.
The owners have advised that they have not received viable offers, and cannot afford to maintain the property
as a historic landmark. Additionally, to reduce the cost of renovation, the CRA would apply for Historic
Preservation "HP" Zoning Overlay District permits, which provide certain modifications to zoning and building
code regulations.
The CRA wishes to preserve the historic character of Overtown by restoring one of the Redevelopment Area's
historically significant structures. Restoration of the property would provide for potential new uses, such as:
1) A One -Stop Center providing workforce development services to veterans, individuals with disabilities,
ex -offenders, displaced homemakers, etc. One -Stop Centers consist of several federal programs that
train or support the workforce, with emphasis placed on industries with current openings and future
growth (see City of Miami One -Stop Center Proposal Summary).
2) A neighborhood activity/meeting center. This location would be an optimal venue for hosting and
sponsoring events that attract residents and visitors to Overtown. With the absence of Gibson Park, this
community center will provide a viable option for keeping children off of the streets, and away from
drugs, crime, and violence. It would also offer an air-conditioned space for seniors to meet and/or
volunteer their time.
3) A banquet hall. This location is a great venue for hosting parties, receptions, showers, and other social
and corporate events at a reasonable cost to residents and businesses in the area.
4) An international cultural complex capable of providing information and developing broad based
awareness and appreciation of historic achievements of the African -American community through the
programming of special cultural events, tours, exhibits, and media. This location would serve as a tourist
information center, directing tourists to attractions, restaurants, hotel accommodations, and historical
sites throughout 'Historic Overtown" and the City of Miami.
JUSTIFICATION:
Section 4.4.D., at page 42, of the 2009 Omni Redevelopment Plan lists "[e]Iiminat[ing] conditions which
contribute to blight' and '[e]nhanc[ing] the area's visual attractiveness to business and residents," as stated
redevelopment objectives.
This Resolution accomplishes these objectives.
FUNDING: $300,000 from SEOPW Tax Increment Fund, "Purchase Land," Account Code
No.10050.920101.662000.0000.00000 .