LANDBANKING

Four key points to make:

1) The land-banking effort in Cleveland was spurred solely because crime was such they were breaking into foreclosed homes, taking copper (mainly), and costing the banks and cities more money to repair and watch homes vacated than the value in the property. That is not the problem in Middletown nor Butler Cty. Too bad the city and Ms. G doesn't focus her efforts and the city, in helping families and banks work out restructuring of loans , thus allowing them to stay in houses, than the chronic pattern now apparent in Middletown, of bringing in the wrecking ball. In sum, Middletown's crime does not justify this practice as arguably, that was the sole motivation in Cleveland for this disgusting practice. The treasurer further stated it would not be necessary if indeed, the banks would cooperate with readjusting loans. That was the message in 60 Minutes Ms. G, not bring on the wrecking ball.

2) Re-branding. This cycle continues when non marketing individuals think they comprehend marketing strategies. This started with Bill Murphy and continues with a former salesman who went to law school, and Ann Mort, a library worker who deems herself as an "expert" on marketing and branding strategies.

What is the new brand and position and Middletown? An art center, a retail center (The Mart), an educational mecca? Or is it a biotechnology mecca? You cannot brand until you know you identity, mission, and salient unique points of differentiation. What is it about Middletown? It won't work, quite trying this nonsense over and over. It gains nothing, but a facade of effort trying to shape Middletown into what it is not.

Middletown is more concerned about re-branding for the fourth time in a few years when it doesn't even have a Director of Development and uses a lawyer in such a role? Insane. But that's the role of wonderful MMF CIC isn't it, to have the old school folks such as Cohen Brothers and surplus metal, define the city's business development strategies with past salesmen Joe Mulligan.

And anyone actually think Middletown's property values went down < 9%? NO- TRY 55% or >!

3)  5% increase in water and sewer bills? That's right....the city is re-engineering, always looking for efficiencies, and trying to save its citizens money! Now, brand that city. What is the talk of regionalization when the city could reduce expenses when it raises its captive cash cow, the monopoly cash generator, called monthly city and water bill!

4) What happened with the $75,000 MMF got when the targeted building was bought by another?