City Council to Discuss Redevelopment Agency Options

In his first regular meeting as Belmont's new mayor, will lead a discussion Tuesday night on the city's next step following the December California Supreme Court decision that dissolved redevelopment agencies throughout the state.

A redevelopment agency (RDA) is a government body (in this case, the Belmont City Council acting as the RDA), dedicated to urban renewal. The majority of Belmont's redevelopment district is in the downtown area.

Redevelopment efforts often focus on reducing crime, destroying unsuitable buildings and dwellings, restoring historic features and structures, and creating new landscaping, housing and business opportunities mixed with expanded government services and transportation infrastructure.

Some of Belmont's RDA 2011 targeted projects included Firehouse Square, the 2.0-acre site bordered by El Camino Real, Broadway, Fifth Avenue, and O’Neill Avenue, and the recently completed roadway reconstruction project at Sixth and O'Neill avenues.

City staff has recommended that the council undertake a Successor Agency obligation to the RDA.  The Successor Agency would be responsible for the winding down of the RDA's obligations and affairs. All of the assets, properties, contracts, leases and records of the RDA would be transferred to the Successor Agency.

The Belmont City Council meeting will be held Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, One Twin Pines Lane. For more information, go to www.belmont.gov.