NOTN- The deadline for Residents living in the historic Telephone Hill neighborhood passed Saturday, and the city will move forward with plans to demolish the houses in December.
“Most of it just comes down to trying to get housing downtown.” said Weldon, “So instead of 14 units, we’re looking for over 100 units, its a leap of faith.”
Opponents who have been testifying over the past few months and who have collected over 800 signatures opposing the redevelopment plan have criticized the plan’s cost and the displacement of current residents, highlighting that no developer has yet signed on.
“They have been very good with their testimony, very heartfelt, agonizing testimony.” Said the Mayor.
The city maintains that the redevelopment is necessary to address Juneau’s housing shortage.
“We do have a timeline. This is a tough topic for people, because we are doing evictions, but in the spirit of trying to get more housing downtown.” Weldon said.
The Juneau Assembly paused the eviction process in October after city officials said proper legal procedures weren’t followed, with at least one tenant not receiving proper notice of eviction.
“It was determined that our property manager had not taken appropriate evidence or proof of posting eviction notices.” Said Deputy Mayor Greg Smith, “Legally, and to make sure that was all correct, we extended that to November 1. Obviously, this is a very challenging situation.”
The Assembly has appropriated $5.5 million toward the redevelopment.
City leaders say the redevelopment plans remain on track and the Assembly will take up the issue again tomorrow night at 6 p.m. to discuss demolition timelines, developer options and more community concerns.
