Is the WDC a part of the City government?
The WDC was created by the San Antonio City Council in June of 2006. In its enabling ordinance, it was stated that the WDC must have Board Members approved by the City Council, thus binding the organization with the City. However, while the WDC is currently housed in the offices of the Economic Development Department and receives funding from the City, plans for the future are such that the organization will be seeking its independence after becoming a financially self-sustaining organization.
Does the WDC have the power to develop property?
The WDC does have the power to develop property either independently or through joint-venture with another company or organization. In addition, the WDC has the capability to arrange the financing for a project.
Does the WDC have the ability to condemn property?
No, the WDC does not have the powers of eminent domain or condemnation.
For more information, please see Section 2 of the
11-02-2006 Resolution,
as passed by the San Antonio City Council, "approving the
formation, creation, proposed articles of incorporation and
bylaws" of the WDC.
Does the WDC have the power to impose taxes?
No, the WDC does not have the power to impose taxes.
For more information, please see Section 2 of the
11-02-2006 Resolution,
as passed by the San Antonio City Council, "approving the
formation, creation, proposed articles of incorporation and
bylaws" of the WDC.
What is the WDC doing about gentrification?
The WDC is committed to preserving the culture, history, and community of the Westside. All projects that the WDC seeks to assist will be encouraged to include hiring of employees from the Westside, pay a livable wage, and create synergies with the existing neighborhoods and businesses.
Is environmentally sustainable development a priority?
Environmentally-sustainable development is a priority of the WDC. The WDC staff continues to research existing pilot programs, incentives, and expertise in order to connect developers with green options. The WDC Board of Directors has spoken about the "green economy" in addition to the creative economy. By encouraging economic development in the inner city, the WDC is promoting sustainability as employers locate closer to their pool of employees, thus lowering the carbon footprint with reduced employee commute distances. The WDC is also encouraging adaptive re-use (recycling) of buildings, and offering master planning assistance to those projects. There is a key link between energy conservation and affordability in small business. Thus, in order to increase the odds of survival, a small business needs to reduce its expenses. Energy conservation measures can help reduce energy costs in the long-term, increasing the odds of a business' success.
