Kenneth Newton

The committee meeting addressed various operational and administrative topics involving the Housing and Community Development (HCD) department, the City Attorney's office, Fleet management, General Services, and Community Enhancement initiatives.

The committee discussed a resolution regarding security requirements for developments and lessees connected to payments in lieu of ad valorem taxes, which was approved. Additional agenda items addressed updates on police department uniform purchases, response times, and the impound lot, as well as a discussion concerning an ordinance to update fees for wreckers and towing operators.

The council discussed a proposed 20-year lease agreement with ESM Memphis, LLC for the Memphis Sports and Event Center in Liberty Park. Key points included operational responsibilities, maintenance obligations, financial revenue sharing, and the potential for public-private partnerships. Council members raised questions regarding local team participation, scholarship programs for disadvantaged youth, insurance responsibilities, and tax obligations. The administration addressed concerns about performance monitoring and the legal framework of the lease.

The council committee held a discussion regarding the Memphis Housing Authority's resources process, customer service, and community engagement procedures. Representatives from the agency presented on their programs and processes, followed by a detailed inquiry session covering topics such as waitlists for housing vouchers, average applicant income, the agency's organizational structure, funding sources, and voucher quotas. Council members also voiced concerns regarding customer service experiences and communication with the public regarding application statuses.

The council received an update regarding the status of ARPA federal funding from the Finance Division. Additionally, the council reviewed a resolution to adjust the fiscal year 2025 capital improvement program operating budget for the development of a downtown command center, which was subsequently referred to executive session. Finally, a resolution was approved to adjust fiscal year 2025 first-quarter budget expenditures by over 3.9 million dollars to address unanticipated circumstances.