In a recent agenda meeting focused on Community Benefits Agreements (CBA), city council members and community leaders convened to discuss key initiatives aimed at revitalizing the East Side neighborhood. The meeting, which included introductions from various council members, set the stage for a detailed presentation by David Garfunkel, President and CEO of Lyft Jacks, representing the Together Eastside coalition.

Garfunkel outlined four primary questions that emerged from the previous meeting, emphasizing the need for specific, actionable goals and investment targets. He highlighted a proposed allocation of $30 million from the city, split evenly between affordable housing and economic development initiatives. The coalition aims to ensure that investments benefit the entire East Side community, not just the southern areas, and is committed to engaging local leaders in the process.

A significant point of discussion was the proposed governance structure for overseeing the allocation of funds. Garfunkel suggested establishing a 501(c)(3) organization to manage the resources, ensuring accountability and transparency. This entity would include representatives from the city council, the administration, the Jaguars, and the coalition itself, fostering a diverse board that reflects the community's interests.

The meeting also addressed the potential use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to support redevelopment efforts. Garfunkel proposed a flexible approach to TIF, suggesting that if progress is evident within 15 years, the percentage of financing dedicated to the neighborhood could be reduced, thereby promoting accountability.

Council members expressed support for the governance structure and raised questions about the composition of the board, emphasizing the importance of including East Side residents. Discussions also touched on the status of ongoing projects, such as the Deb Store and the RFK Community Center, highlighting the need for continued investment in community assets.

As the meeting progressed, members acknowledged the urgency of finalizing the CBA details before the upcoming legislative deadline. The council plans to explore additional meetings to refine the governance and funding structures, ensuring that the community's needs are prioritized in the redevelopment process.