Mayor Mullen Reviews His RFQ Presentation
By Stephen E. Lipken
Village of Pelham Mayor Chance Mullen opened the Tuesday, February 10th Board meeting, beginning with Trustee Reports. Trustee Allison Anderson presented an update from the Department of Public Works (DPW) in line with the recent record snowfall and record breaking cold. “They have just finished widening the main roads and are widening streets section by section.
“I want to remind everyone that we have the MyVOP app to report local issues and stay updated on news and events. You can put in service requests about streets and sidewalks, hazardous conditions, vehicles and parking, stormwater drainage or Trees and Parks, where you can request a new tree planting on your property,” Anderson stated.
Trustee Krystal Howell warned citizens about hazardous loose wires and sidewalks not cleared of ice and snow in front of buildings. She spoke about compiling a list of volunteers and companies willing to help residents in need clear ice and snow fronting their homes.
Mullen then reviewed his Tuesday, May 27th Request for Qualifications Presentation (RFQ). “It was a priority dating back to 2008, the Comprehensive Plan. We know that there are underutilized sites that diminish our Tax Base. The entire taxes that come from that base total less than $80,000.
• “Underutilized sites erode Tax Base (VOP only, .85 square miles)
• ‘Broken Teeth’ footprint undermines walkability and vibrancy
• Pedestrian safety challenge due to repeated ingress/egress
• Need off-street and on-street parking
“What is a Request for Qualification? An RFQ is a document used to evaluate a potential developer’s qualifications, experience, expertise and capacity before they are allowed to submit a detailed proposal for a specific project.
“This RFQ was issued to identify qualified developers to partner with us to plan redevelopment of this area in a way that aligns with our desires for the site(s),” Mullen concluded.