Resolution No. 4834 Exhibit - Laserfiche WebLink

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housing developer expressed interest in constructing new housing in the area but would not be able to obtain conventional financing based on the condition of the streets. Over the past five years, neighbors have worked with City staff to identify and prioritize needs. Jobs Each year, the City of Eugene conducts a community survey to obtain valid and reliable information from residents on the quality of life in Eugene, community priorities and values, and the quality of services provided by the City of Eugene. The study captures residents' opinions about City government, public safety, economic development, growth, and satisfaction. In the most recent survey, conducted in November 2004, 60.0% to the respondents felt that their economic opportunities in Eugene during the past five years had gotten better or stayed the same, compared with 50.0% in 2003, and 56.0% in 2002. Thirty six percent felt the situation had worsened, compared with 45.0% in 2003 and 35.0% in 2002. City residents supported the concept of the City taking an active role assisting businesses in order to provide more jobs in the community, though the level of support varies significantly depending on what form that assistance took and whether is was provided to local businesses or outside companies. The results of the survey clearly show that job creation is Eugene's most important issue. At the same level as in 2003, 86.0% of the respondents felt the City should take an active role in helping local businesses create and retain jobs (virtually unchanged from 88.0% in 2002). Economic Development/Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program The use of the Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program would greatly increase the City's ability to respond to community development opportunities, such as land acquisition or economic development and job creation. Springfield Community Development in Downtown Springfield Downtown Springfield is like many historic commercial districts which have seen their anchor retail and professional offices move to the malls or to business parks in the suburbs. The last new construction in the downtown district occurred 25 years ago. In the time since, Springfield's historic core business district has been marked by empty storefronts, little investment in building maintenance, and the perception that the downtown area is a bad place to locate a mainstream business. The few surviving restaurants and businesses close in the evenings before dark. Those establishments that remain open are mostly clubs, bars, and pool halls. Economic disinvestment in the downtown properties and businesses contributes significantly to the environment of the area. For example, property upkeep is an essential economic investment that builds public perceptions of safety and vitality. Applying the principles of Crime Prevention through Community Design cited in a 1997 Springfield Police study, "requires private investment in property crime abatement measures, such as lighting and other improvements. Without consistent investment in these important improvements, the area will remain an easy target for crime and disorder." 73