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In the Media » "Renaissance
Square Should Be Open Book to Local Citizens"
Renaissance Square Should Be Open Book to Local Citizens
By Nelson Lopatin, Guest
Essayist
From Democrat and Chronicle, "Speaking
Out",
August 26th, 2005
An article in the Democrat and Chronicle on July 31 ("Main
Street men") focused on the four local companies that
will join forces as associate architects for Renaissance
Square, i.e. share profits on this mega development.
This is nice for the four companies but the issues that
matter to other people across greater Rochester include:
the source of all development funds including private investment;
the environmental impact; oversight of the development; construction
costs; operation and maintenance; source of funding of construction
cost overruns and operating deficits; who might be the “insiders” and
special interest groups pushing this project; and the developments
expected financial impact on the community.
Many questions about the project need answers now.
When will citizen representatives be named to the Main & Clinton
Local Development Corp. overseeing the project?
What are the specific financial obligations for county,
state and federal government entities for the project’s
capital and operating costs?
Center city affects the economic and psychological health
of our entire community. Accordingly, I am 100 percent behind
downtown development. But it is thoughtful, well-conceived
development I support. Sure, having new construction jobs
is great for the short tern. However, all Monroe County taxpayers
should be concerned about this colossal project, its formidable
operating costs and the myriad unanswered questions.
I urge you to get involved in the process.
Lopatin, of Brighton, is a candidate
in the September 13, 2005 Democratic primary for Monroe County
Legislature, 14th District (Brighton and part of Henrietta).
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