Local city council members answer questions on the Shockoe Bottom Revitalization Plan

Parker stating opposition and Graziano is uncommitted.

February 24, 2014; 11:02 AM • by Richard Hayes

The RTD sent four questions to all nine members of city council. Five chose to respond and among the responders were Kathy Graziano of the 4th District and Parker Agelasto of the 5th District. The Mayor’s resolution (pdf) is up before the city council tonight and the article by RTD give you a pretty clear idea where our two council members stand on the issue.

Do you support or oppose the Bottom ballpark and other components of the overall plan? Why? If you are undecided, what are you looking for as you study the issue?

Kathy C. Graziano, 4th District: At this point, I support the overall components of the plan in concept. Richmond, as all cities in Virginia, is landlocked. Meaning that the city does not have the ability to annex, and most of its land is already developed. It is crucial that it make the best use of all its real estate. There is, presently, relatively little retail within the city limits. Development in the Bottom is problematic due to the Shockoe Creek. The city must take advantage of real estate that has potential to produce tax revenue. The project that is before the council today is very ambitious and visionary. As always, the devil is in the details. My main issue with the project is the financing. I will remain undecided until I am comfortable that the city will not be at risk in the future for debt repayment.

Parker C. Agelasto, 5th District: I have listened to the opinions of opponents and supporters, of 5th District residents and those from other jurisdictions, as it relates to the ballpark proposal. Every indicator is that this plan is unpopular with most stakeholders. Rather than respond to popularity, I have investigated the issues and analyzed the assumptions. After months of review and numerous unresolved questions, I have concluded that I am unable to support the proposed plan for a baseball stadium in Shockoe Bottom.