Voting Members Presented

• N. Reich
• C. Poh
• P. Brown (CH)
• RS Nieswander
• B. Chew
• T. Veider

Project details presented by Katherine Holmok (EDG) for the LaSalle Arts & Media Center Parking Lot Retrofit.  Presented details on previous uses, contamination, existing conditions.  Linda Warren & Jeanine Colozza (CNP & New Village Capital), Cynthia Brookins & Jamar Doyle (GCDC), and Councilman Polensek present for additional comments.  There hope is to ultimately create enough parking to attract mid-size events.

Committee Comments, Concerns, Questions

• The rear building still looks very sound and habitable.  Does it really need to be demolished or can it be redeveloped and be put back into use to contribute to the LaSalle and E 185th St.
• How many spaces would be created on-site if all three structures were removed?
• What is the connection from the parking lot to the LaSalle so that loading will be easier for vendors.
• Can the seating be re-arranged so that it engages the street more.
• How soon after the demolition would the parking lot be installed and is financing secured?
• Explore the opportunity to have outdoor seating/patio space for the adjacent tenant
• Landscape ordinance will require trees every 40' along the frontages.

Linda Warren available to comment on the arrangements they already have in place with businesses along E. 185th.  CNP's goal is to stabilize the LaSalle and make sure that it is operating functionally and economically.

Councilman Polensek is available to state his support for the demolitions in an effort to ensure the success of the LaSalle.

Motion to approve the demolitions of the three structures as presented, and conceptual approval for the landscaping and parking design with the consideration to study the bench seating, addressing the street frontages with trees per code, lighting, materials, etc.  Motion passed 5-1 (C. Poh)