5/26/03: Update on the Transition from the Empowerment Zone to the Renewal Communities Initiative

The Transition from the Empowerment Zone to the Renewal Communities is rapidly unfolding.  On Tuesday, May 27th the Atlanta City Council CD/HR Committee reviewed the resolution and made several “friendly amendments.” These included:

1. Eliminating the ability of the CoRA's subcontractor (assumed to be ANDP) to compete for the funds they will administer;
2. Limiting the CoRA's ability to directly oversee benchmarks related to CDC grant making, lending, and technical assistance; and
3. Removing the CoRA's ability to unilaterally appoint the proposed subcontractor (ANDP) as the development partner for CDC's deemed to have a "limited capacity" to undertake complex development activities.

The CD/HR Committee forwarded the resolution, as amended, to the Full City Council for a vote on Monday, June 2nd, 2003.

Councilwoman Debbie Starnes hosted a worksession on Thursday, May 29th to discuss the details of Exhibit B. Although the CD/HR Committee forwarded the resolution to the full council with the aforementioned amendments, the Administration presented an alternate version of the legislation that eliminated each of the favorable amendments adopted by the Committee.

At the June 2nd Council Meeting, the Council will review the amended version of the resolution; however, in light of the administration's position, it is highly likely that several unfriendly amendments will be made. Accordingly, it is now more important than ever to voice any concerns that you may have regarding the administration's proposed course of action.  Please be sure to attend the meeting and be prepared to speak during the public comment session.  Also, please contact your City Council Representative and let them know how you feel!