South of Main Blockwatch

Block Opposes Demolition - Federal Process Bypassed

Federal Process Bypassed

June 5, 2006



Mark Barbash
Director Department of Development
50 W. Gay Street
Columbus, Oh 43215


Dear Mark,

I am writing in reference to the article that appeared in the Saturday, June 3, 2006 edition of the Columbus Dispatch on page D1 entitled ‘Housing groups settle dispute’.

In the article Mr. Beard stated that the properties at Main and Wilson would be demolished to make way for commercial development. Since the properties were purchased with Empowerment i.e. Federal dollars, it is our understanding that in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior standards, a Section 6 review must take place to determine the highest and best use of the land and any historic contribution. Why then are you as a member of the Compact’s Board allowing this venture to move forward without going through the proper channels. Again, it is our money that you’re spending. This is not a private deal.

We have a design charrette for Main Street scheduled for July 8th of this year. Quite a few professional planners and architects will be attending and even though the official invitations haven’t been sent yet, word of mouth has generated a large interest from the community. We want this insane rushing to stop and allow us the benefit of solid development planning as you did with Parsons Avenue.

Your attention to this matter is much appreciated.

Sincerely yours,


Kathleen Bailey
President
South of Main Blockwatch


Cc: Ross Carlson, Field Environmental Officer, HUD
The Honorable Matt Habash
The Honorable Michael C. Mentel
The Honorable Kevin Boyce
The Honorable Patsy Thomas
The Honorable Charleta Tavares
The Honorable Maryellen O’Shaughnessy
Randy Black, Historic Preservation
South of Main Blockwatch