Dear Editor,
This morning the Village received a number of calls from residents who had questions about a flier they had received from the Concerned Citizens of Riverside; specifically, questions about whether the information provided was accurate.
Unfortunately, information contained in the flier is inaccurate. First, it asserts that agreements have been made relating to future improvements to the Central Business District and surrounding infrastructure; this just is not true. Second, no mention is made of the various review and approval processes which would be required for financial assistance if a TIF were established.
Inaccuracies contained in the flier residents received may have stemmed from misunderstanding and confusion surrounding preliminary and substantial planning efforts the Village has undertaken—”efforts all communities undertake when considering TIF financing. For instance, prior to establishing a TIF, it is recommended communities identify and even designate development that meets the criteria for consideration, at a later date, for financial assistance —” that is, in the event a TIF is established.
And, let's not forget, as with all Village development, regardless of the financing mechanism used, all projects are subject to the stringent and rigorous standards set forth in Riverside's building and zoning regulations. This includes all the many review and public processes pertaining to historic preservation and landscape architectural designations, including those applicable to buildings with landmark designation, such as the Arcade Building.
It is not surprising that the Board approved a resolution which will allow it to further influence development of the Arcade Building to assure it is the type, nature and quality fitting a National Landmark community. By no means, does this action eliminate already existing and applicable zoning and building regulations supporting the preservation of Riverside's historical character; rather it strengthens them. If a TIF is established, using incremental property taxes is a legitimate and important objective to close a gap and make possible the renovation of the Arcade Building, an important historic building in the center of the Village.
For the record, the village has not entered into any contractual agreements with any developer surrounding proposed improvements; nor has the village committed to any specific dollar amount; nor has a final decision been made as to how improvements will be financed.
Your Village Board has the entire community's interests at heart. The proposed TIF is one means being considered and studied to address the community's ever expanding list of capital development needs. It is a tool to assist in what many residents believe are needed economic development efforts to improve the CBD.
In closing, we would hope that as development efforts move forward, we all remember the responsibilities that accompany our status as a National Historic Landmark, serving as stewards and as an example to communities everywhere. We do, however, think that our stewardship extends to the manner in which we communicate amongst each other—”the manner in which we voice our opinions—”and the manner in which we disagree with each other. Honesty and integrity need to remain part of that process and we all need to do our best to not skew information for the sake of supporting one opinion or another. Healthy dialogue and disagreement produce good things—“and, Riverside is an example of that. Let's just remember that dialogue about how to finance improvements to our community always be conducted with integrity, respect and honesty.
President Wiaduck and Riverside Board of Trustees