Left In Lowell

Waitilnextyr is a frequent LiL commentator.

1. Control Property Taxes (B-)
Last year it was 5.4% above inflation (property value increase). For FY’08 it is targeted at 2.5% period. This is the first budget proposed by CM Lynch and it was frugal, transparent and complete. However, the CC did request some increases to the budget, and subsequent agreements to the arena contracts add further risk to holding the line at 2.5%. More likely the increase will be in the order of 3.5-4.0% come November.

2. Expand Commercial Tax Base (D)
Some improvement with L’Energia back on the tax rolls. However, Hamilton Canal Master Plan is weak on encouraging commercial development, and there has apparently been a delay in awarding the Master Developer contract. Additional tax base could be available if the Legislature adopts the Governor’s Telecom Tax proposal; however, the council has not actively supported this legislation.

3. Put 180 Units of Affordable Housing on-line at Julian Steele (B)
First phase complete, second phase under construction. Third phase appears to be late in its planned April start.

4. Close an Acceptable Deal for Hamilton Canal Properties (B)
Property was taken by Eminent Domain, as negotiations failed. The final cost may be tied up in litigation.

5. Put 900-car Parking Garage on-line on Middlesex St (D)
Construction is going ahead, apparently on schedule, and within the increased budget. However, the budget disconnect has not been solved, and the interest expense will bump up significantly this coming year. The commercial space should be leased soon after completion of the garage, but no information has been released as yet.

6. Initiate Private Development in accordance with the JAM plan (D)
RFP out to select Master Developer, however it doesn’t prioritize commercial development. There has apparently been a delay in awarding a contract to the Master Developer, but no reason has been publicized. Apparently the State will consume about 20% of the land area with non-taxable enterprises, the new courthouse and maybe the nanotechnology center for UML. If these become the focal points for related commercial development, this would be a good strategy. Much remains to be seen before we could improve the grade here.

7. Initiate Private Development at the Hamilton Canal Properties. (I)
As with the JAM plan, progress is delayed. The council has voted to make this a priority area for zoning, so that may be the next step in development.

8. Close Loopholes in Zoning Code to Avoid Neighborhood Exploitation (C)
Some progress being made, but still too much left to ZBA judgment.

9. Eliminate “Appearance” of Conflict of Interest on Local Boards (A)
Much improved with new appointments and televised meetings. (more…)