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Minutes-City Council/Redevelopment Agency Meeting-December 4, 1995 Page - 13 - JOINT PUBLIC HEARING (continued) V. Greg Spalding, 770 Moraga Drive, said staff has done a good job but hasn't convinced the public. He asked questions regarding vacancy rates, property currently for sale, and how long property was on the market. He said long-time businesses provide a positive influence on the City which can't be ignored. He said the City Council should take another six months and try to convince people. W. Joel DeWitt, 1458 - 138th Avenue, said eminent domain should be further examined. He said the structure of the hearing is not appreciated; • people are interrupted. He believes decisions have been made already. Two businesses he discussed are out of business; we have to hold the businesses we have before we expand. Marina Square does not have enough parking. He said a $5 million project at the Bal Theater would kick out five businesses. Mayor Corbett noted there is no action before the City Council related to development of the Bal Theater. X. Al Rosenga, 534 Parrott Street, said 50 years ago there was movement to have everything from Dutton Avenue to the City limits condemned and revitalized. The proposal was turned down by the citizens, who were allowed to vote. This is a big issue being considered without a vote. The taxpayer may be willing to pay for an election. He asked how many of the Council Members have talked to 100% of the people in the eminent domain areas and asked them about the problem of eminent domain. He said, as representatives of the people of the City, the Council should take the time to go out and talk to some of the property owners and to business owners who don't own property. He said the Council should take a little more time. He said it only takes four of them to put this issue on the ballot. People would be willing to pay for an election. How many people have figured out the return of investment on this, how many years will it take for the City to benefit. Y. Mike Ahern, Property Manager at 14301 E. 14th Street and Representing the Storm Family, said the family is offended by comments calling their property blighted. They have paid $750,000 in improvements and plan on leaving it to their children. Do not put small businesses out of business. New businesses will not open if the City can take them away. He said reasonable rents cannot be replaced. Fair market value is determined when a willing buyer and seller arrive at a negotiated price. Vote no. Z. Sid Euland, 1600 Grant Avenue, Owner of Two Commercial Parcels on Dutton Avenue, interviewed 200 businesses or property owners regarding this and did not find one person in favor of eminent domain. He's not in. favor. He will go from door to door in Council Member Galvan's district when the election' comes up for another candidate.