Libby Streetscape update
Evolving slowly
by KLCB 1230 AM Libby News Radio
June 13, 2008
Streetscape continues to evolve, but only at a snail's pace, and only at a couple blocks at a time. The Libby City Council discussed the project at a working meeting.
Councilman Peggy Williams told the fellow council members three areas of concern keep popping up. The Plan, the Special Improvement District, and the percentage to Libby Revitalization to manage the project. Trees seem to be the most volatile part of the project.
"We've got a concept, but people want to see a plan," she said.
Councilman Doug Roll said, "We can't afford an engineer to create a plan. I see this as a couple of blocks a year. We can't afford to do the whole thing at once," he said.
Tom Wood, a member of the Libby Revitalization board, told the council "there really is not a plan,"
So, there in no formal plan or engineering study for the project, just a concept.
A concern for the council is the 17% of the total project cost that Libby Revitalization is requesting for oversight compensation to develop the project.
"We can't afford it," said Roll. Other council members agree; the figure is too high. LRI will get 12% for its oversight fee on the Riverfront Park pavilion project.
As it sits at the moment, the Special Improvement District will tax property owners in the two blocks between Lincoln Boulevard and the Highway $25 per lineal foot plus 5% annual interest over the 20-year life of the SID. The amount of the SID can be paid in full up front to save interest charges if the property owner desires.
There seem to be a major issue with the developers of the Historic Libby High School and some retailers downtown concerning blocked visuals of display windows and existing trees. LRI is working with the City of Madison, Wisconsin regarding the trees, according to Trent Oleberg of LRI. At the recommendation of the City of Madison, only two types of trees will be planted: non-fruit bearing flowering trees and Japanese lilacs.
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Story by KLCB 1230 AM Libby News Radio, www.todaysbestcountryonline.com
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