1984-86: Swifton Commons-Redevelopment, Bond Hill; Cincinnati, Ohio

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Serving as a key member of Bond Hill’s Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation Economic Development Committee, Mr. Alexander was the mastermind for the eventual unique deal that was consummated when the BHCURC was initially approach by the owner group to sign our support for the acquisition of an $11.5  million HUD Urban Action Grant (UDAG). He presented the economic ramifications of such a possible deal first to the Committee and then the Community Residents. In this delivery he emphasized that given the sign off required by Community on this Grant, critical demands should have to be made by Owners to the needs of the residents: these were-local employment for 450 to 500 community residents; mall manager position should if at all be filled by a Bond Hill resident; at least a one percent ownership interest in mall; hiring of local architects and engineers to provide services for drawings and construction renovations; and annual contribution and benefits for local causes provided by Owners from profits.

 

The rename Swifton Commons was brought to life by these critical and persistence efforts, led by Mr. Alexander. In retrospect all the demands except for one was accepted and delivered on. The one that did not get consummated was the stock ownership pieces. Even though the Mall Owners were willing the economic committee for various reasons did not support this demand, so it was not push through. The ten year span of Swifton Commons, produced some lasting residual effects: Its Commonly Jazz Series; new local businesses started and others enhanced; young persons obtaining business skills as protégés under business managers or owners; significant community pride based on employment numbers and micro economic infusions; and a constant beacon for opportunity and hope (a vital variable in holistic redevelopment of a community)

 

Facilitation: Key Groups/Participants

                                                Bond Hill Community in Whole

                                                Bond Hill CommunityUrban Redevelopment Corporation    

                                                Mall Owner Group (Glazer Family Enterprises and Ed DeBartolo Corporation)

                                                City Department of Economic/Community Development Staff

                                                Localofficeof HUD

                                                Bond Hill Businesses capable of providing services for redevelopment

                                                City Council members and mayor’s office

Results:

                                                Over $12 million reinvestment in the mall physical structure

                                                450 to 500 new and 80% full time jobs rest part time

                                                Hiring of Mall Manager from the Community

                                                Assist Mall Manager also local resident

                                                Existing Local Businesses sizeable gains in contracts, employment and income