Community Redevelopment Agency

At my request, the City Council at our regular May 6, meeting reappointed an active Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). The new Agency with now look at funding much needed redevelopment through Tax Increment Finance (TIF) in targeted areas such as the Riverfront and in the area that was traditional known as the African-American Commercial district.

Members of the new CRA board includes Joe Taylor, Chairman; Brenda Ash, Vice Chair; Dieter Ambos; John Gore, Tami Ray-Hutchinson; Kathy Robinson and Anna Maire-Cannatella. The group is currently working on a plan to present to the City Commission for consideration and adoption.

Summer Recreation Program

At our regular May meeting, I called for and received unanimous support to appoint Commissioner Val Webb to oversee the City’s Summer Recreation Programs. Commissioner’s Webb first task was to quickly plan for and implement a program for the 2008 summer recreation season.

With support from a strong group of volunteers, she implemented a program that targets kids from throughout the Franklin County community, ages 6 – 17, from 9 AM - 4 PM, Monday through Friday. The program offers an assortment of activities, from taking field’s trips, reading, games, movies, sports, and a whole lot more.

If you have not had the chance to visit our 2008 Summer Recreation Program, please take the opportunity to do so. The program is held at the Fort Coombs Armory at 66 – 4th Street, stop by, and say hello to Site Coordinators Ms. Betty and Ms. Nadine, plus when you see City Commissioner Val Webb, please tell her thanks for overseeing and putting together such a wonderful program for our kids.

Three Serviceman Statue Interview

Mayor Johnson interviewed by Royce Rolstad of local FCTV Channel 3, after the Three Servicemen Statue groundbreaking ceremony.