SB 0865 Creates the "Community Comeback Act" for eradication of blight and neighborhood revitalization in St. Louis County
Sponsor:Goode
LR Number:4054S.01I Fiscal Note:4054-01
Committee:Local Government and Economic Development
Last Action:03/07/00 - SCS Voted Do Pass S Local Government & Economic Journal page:
Development Committee
Title:
Effective Date:August 28, 2000
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Current Bill Summary

SCS/SB 865 - The "Community Comeback Act" is established to eradicate blight and foster sound, comprehensive community development in St. Louis County neighborhoods.

The "Community Comeback Trust" Board is composed of seven members nominated by the Mayor and the County Council and chosen by the County Executive. Board members serve for 3-year terms. The terms of the initial board members are staggered and determined by lot. Board members are limited to two terms.

The Board is authorized to issue bonds or notes and to receive gifts for funding or refunding any of its projects.

The Board works with the community to develop a plan which will be adopted by the County. Required annual reports will provide information regarding the status of projects relative to the plan. The Board must also establish an 11-member advisory committee to assist with plan review and execution.

The Board will accept and review petitions for two categories of grant programs. Redevelopment projects in low income neighborhoods are "priority comeback projects" grants. Such projects may or may not be consistent with plan recommendations.

The second category is called the "Select Neighborhood Action Program" (SNAP). Applicants provide a 10% match for any community development project grant. Projects funded under this program must be consistent with the plan.

Of funds available to the Board, 75% will be dedicated to "priority comeback projects", and 5%(not to exceed $500,000) will be dedicated to SNAP projects. The balance of funds, excluding 5% for administration, will be used to benefit low income residents with job creation, home improvement, and various redevelopment activities.

St. Louis County and St. Louis City may adopt a use tax, equivalent to the amount of sales tax, to fund these programs. Under current law, one-seventh of local use tax is paid to support the construction of light-rail lines. This act redirects the money to the Community Comeback Trust.

Current law allows the formation of urban redevelopment corporations in municipalities. This act also authorizes the formation of an urban redevelopment corporation in St. Louis County.

This act contains an emergency clause.

The provisions of this act are contained in HS/HCS/HB 1305 and CCS/SCS/HS/HB 1238 (TAT).
DAVID TALLMAN