City of Central Falls
Special City Council Meeting
City Hall Council Chambers
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
6:45 p.m.
A Special meeting of the Central Falls City Council was held on the above date in the City Hall Council Chambers at 6:57 p.m.
Councilman Patino
Councilman Issa
Councilman Leger
Councilman Noury
Councilman Weber
Quorum present.
Council President Weber presided and led the Assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Proposed Development & Sale Central Falls Landing
Council President Weber invited Mayor Matthews to proceed with the presentation.
Mayor Matthews thanked the City Council for scheduling this meeting and proceeded to give a brief overview of the History of the Landing Project.
He stated that the project concept was to develop ideas as to what the future may hold for a commercial & mixed residential facility with access to the river. He recounted the City’s attempts since 1997 through the present time to find a buyer/developer for the property.
Mayor Matthews recited the numerous times the City advertised for this sale in area news papers like the Providence Journal, Providence Business News, Pawtucket Times etc. He explained the time and effort given with project developers like Stephen Durkin, Johnson & Wales, Goodman and Associates to name but a few. The Mayor stated that the project was listed with the State Department of Economic Development specifically for the sale of the project. He stated that the City has made an extensive effort for this sale.
Mayor Matthews related that in 1996 there was a response from a Mr. James Klugla who proposed an Arts & Tourism Center at the site. This proposal was sent in the form of a letter of introduction and nothing came of it. The Mayor stated that in 1997 Mr. Antonio Tenerio responded with a proposal.
Mayor Matthews commented on a needs assessment study that was conducted in April 2002.
He then related that Mr. Gordon Ondis responded in May of 2002. He stated that Mr. Ondis proposed a commercial enterprise that would allow for public access to the river as well as banquet facilities and other businesses. He also stated that this would create a new tax base for the City.
The Mayor explained that an appraisal has been done by Coyle Appraisal for the property which has bee appraised at $150,000.
Mayor Matthews introduced Mr. Gordon Ondis and the development team.
Mr. Ondis gave a brief overview of his proposal and stated that in order to proceed with this project he needed certain assurances from the Council with regards to licensing for the proposed businesses that would be located there including a banquet facility, restaurant and a brewpub.
He stated that the facility would have approximately several units including condos.
Questions arose regarding the Scoop at the Falls.
Council President Weber recessed the meeting at 8:04 p.m.
Meeting reconvened at 8:27 p.m.
Maureen Slowik of 438 Dexter Street asked how close was the sale of the property and are liquor licenses available. She stated that all she asked is that the City get fair market value for the property.
Council members commented on their meeting with the Detention Facility Board.
Council President Weber asked Councilman Leger to be part of the interview process for the new Police Chief. He stated that he hoped to be part of the process but would be out of Town during this Time.
Councilman Leger responded that he would be happy to be part of the interview process.
Councilman Issa asked that as Chair of the Public Safety Committee he be updated on the progress of this appointment.
Motion to adjourn was made by Councilman Leger and seconded by Councilman Patino. All Agreed.
So Voted. Time 8:43 p.m.
____________________________________
Elizabeth A. Crowley, CMC
City Clerk