OCR Text |
Show PAGE 6 THE ZEPHYRAPRIL 89 the mayor speaks an interview with tom stocks On March 6, 1989, The Zephyr conducted an Interview with Mayor Tom Stocks. The responses have been edited for clarity and space; a complete recording of this interview is on file with The Zephyr. Zephyr: Do vou feel the Community Development Block Grant money should have gone to the Citv of Moab instead of Green River? Tom: Im disturbed over the process that took place to decide that question. The Council of Governments (COG) should be set up by the entitles and municipalities within the County. I talked to the County Commission and the State about the way it was set up and they say its an advisory board. I feel that Moab City and Castle Valley were not informed as to their rights. The County, a number of years ago, said that if they were allowed to have the CDBG funds for 3 or 4 years, then the City would be allowed to make the final determination of their projects, and they didnt do that. I think David Knutson, the Commissioner in charge, made a decision that we were to make as City Council. In December of 1988, believe, in Monticello, they reminded themselves that it was up to the City to make the decision on the grant funds. Zephyr: What do vou mean? What happened In Monticello? Tom: In Monticello, they had a meeting of S. E. Utah Association of Governments telling you how to apply for CDBG funds. Ray Pene and Terry Warner both attended. We were under the impression the City would be allowed to make a decision about the funding at least. Zephyr: Have vou appealed that decision? Tom: As of today, I have not. The City Attorney wrote a letter to the to make S. E. Utah Association of Governments protesting the set-- up that determination. Zephyr: The money from the CDBG would have gone for planning for the proposed Mill Creek Parkway. What is the justification for building the parkway with its million dollar price tag? And will it benefit the citizens of Moab? Tom: The parkway benefits are twofold. The first cuts down on the flood problems weve had with the creek and getting the vegetation out of there, and the second is to give us access for foot and bike traffic; so they can travel around the community without being on roads and creating traffic hazards. That type of thing is always appealing to out- 1 ARCHES REALTY 690 So. Main 259-56- 93 out of state toll-fre- e line Castle Valley Home and Recreation Sites Arches Realty has been commissioned by the developer to make major discounts on multiple-lo- t buys in Castle Valley. Excellent Financing Terms Available Personalized Service i7 people who come here, and I think it will compliment the businesses. Its got to be good for the community. The million dollar price tag has a lot to do with the flood control problem, and were hoping the Corps of Engineers will carry 75 of the cost Zephyr: Lets shift to another subject, and a different question. Who has responsibility for the Dump? Has that Issue been resolved between Moab Citv and the Countv? Tom: The County has total responsibility for the dump. However, the City owns the land which creates some liability problems In the future it its not properly managed. We have not received a bill since January 1, 1989, so they are honoring the agreement we made last Spring. Zephyr: Until January 1. 1989. as vou said, the Citv and Countv were sharing responsibility for the dump. Were vou ever provided anv information about the asbestos dumping, or anv other hazardous waste dumping? of-to- wn Tom: No. Zephyr: Does the Citv have anv plan to widen and improve 4th North to provide commercial access to Apple Lane and Rudv Higgins proposed RV park? Tom: Most of that area is privately owned and it'extends practically out to the middle of the oiled road. So its really not a City Issue until such time as the City owns the land. I dont think we have the right to go in and widen someones personal property. The only way is through the power of eminent domain, and this City Council Is one that does not believe it should take anyones personal property unless there was a dire need from a safety problem. I shouldnt even speak of eminent domain, because people will see that word in your paper and say, oh were not going to do that theyre going to take my house away My perception is that the Council is not going to do anything to acquire property for a private venture. Zephyr: Speaking of condemnation, there are several Questions and concerns about the Redevelopment Agency. Tom: We wish we could drop the Re- - in that, and Just call It a Development Agency. Zephyr: Ok. First explain what the Redevelopment Agency Is. and what its purpose is. .... |