DMC FOI Request Insurance Production

Linda was the first person in a Corpus Christi Public Housing Dev. to successfully run 4 pub office: a person who picked herself up by her bootstraps

by hkarsh

August 2, 2007

I was a candidate for the Del Mar Board of Regents. I picked up the package to run for office. I am College Educated. I have several degrees. I'm pretty good at reading and writing contracts and such. I'm not a lawyer and believe me I could have used a lawyer to explain all the stuff I was responsible for and had to do. Del Mar wasn't going to explain it to me and the local party bosses wouldn’t have anything to do with me. Del Mar certainly wasn't going to help Linda whose brother they had railroaded out of a job. Now Linda was the first person in a Corpus Christi Public Housing development to successfully run for a public office and her neighbors were very proud of her. So here we have a person who picked herself up by her bootstraps with out the aid of the local democratic or republican bosses and won her election. So what do the local politicos do and that includes our slimy DA, they go after her and shoot her down. Got to keep those lower classes out of local politics or who knows what might happen. Just for those of you who do not know, she wasn't welcomed by the Board either. I have no doubt from my many years of experience with Del Mar College if Linda had been a Regent the College wanted the DA would never have brought charges as much as people like me would have screamed for it. Adler and her cronies were looking for any excuse to get Linda out that they could dig up. Now Gabe Rivas who was voted out of office by the community he was supposed to have served because he mostly served himself and the corrupt DMC administration, wants his job back. We are looking at a long term appointment here. I hope this community puts the College on notice that another election is called for here.

CCCT Article w/ Political Discourse and Debate at the bottom. Above is a wonderful article by Howard Karsh which originated in the discussion below.

Del Mar regent Garcia resigns

By Israel Saenz (Contact)
Thursday, August 2, 2007

CORPUS CHRISTI — Del Mar College regents will begin researching options to fill Linda Garcia’s District 1 seat, officials said.

Garcia resigned from the post Wednesday, board president Chris Adler said.

Adler said Garcia stated in her resignation letter, dated Wednesday, that she is pursuing a career opportunity outside Corpus Christi that forces her to resign the seat. Garcia was unavailable for comment Wednesday.

“It’s something the board will have to meet about and plan what we are to do,” Adler said.

District Attorney Carlos Valdez last week filed a lawsuit against Garcia seeking her removal from the board. The suit said Garcia did not meet residency requirements to run for the seat and that her application for candidacy contained false information.

Garcia’s attorney, Robert J. Heil, said Wednesday he would fight the lawsuit if it continues.

A judge also could order, if Garcia is found guilty, that she be fined or pay court fees. Valdez did not return phone calls late Wednesday seeking comment.

A phone number listed for Garcia on the board’s Web page last week has been disconnected.

Garcia, a substitute teacher, defeated former board president and local business owner Gabriel Rivas in November. Rivas in January submitted Garcia’s application to run for the seat, as well as a previous statement of residency, to Valdez’s office, which spurred the investigation.

Applicants must have lived in the district they wish to represent for at least six months prior to the filing deadline to be eligible for the spot. Garcia filed for candidacy under a District 1 address on the Aug. 29, 2006, deadline; her statement of residency, dated March 3, 2006, lists a Kingsville address.

Regents bylaws state a regent vacancy must be filled by appointment after the board has informed the public of the opening. Bylaws do not specify how long the board has to notify the public or fill the seat.

Rivas said Wednesday he would consider seeking the seat again.

Contact Israel Saenz at

886-3767 or saenzi@caller.com

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 5:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not the law the under which the Regents are elected.

The only law that the DMC Regents have ever been elected under is the one below. Why the change now?

TITLE 3. HIGHER EDUCATION SUBTITLE G. NON-BACCALAUREATE SYSTEM CHAPTER 130. JUNIOR COLLEGE DISTRICTS

§ 130.0822. ELECTION FROM SINGLE-MEMBER TRUSTEE
DISTRICTS.

h). A candidate for trustee must be a resident[0] of the trustee district the candidate seeks to represent. A trustee other than a trustee serving in accordance with Subsection (g) of this section vacates the office if he or she ceases to reside in the trustee district he or she represents.

The Texas SOS who is the CHIEF ELECTION OFFICER

"CHAPTER 31. OFFICERS TO ADMINISTER ELECTIONS

SUBCHAPTER A. SECRETARY OF STATE

§ 31.001. CHIEF ELECTION OFFICER. (a) The secretary of
state is the chief election officer of the state."

Counsel for Del Mar College requested an informal opinion thorn the Texas Secretary of State regarding this matter and received an e-mailed response. "The Secretary of State declared that “There is no direct conflict between the provisions of the Education Code regarding candidate requirements And the Election Code provisions for candidate requirements. Therefore, these provisions should both be read as applicable to the election of a community college district trustee.”

And if there is a conflict the Education Code reads that it "supersedes a conflicting statute outside the Education Code".

The Election code reads

"This code[0] supersedes a conflicting[0] statute outside this
code[0] unless this code[0] or the outside statute expressly provides otherwise."

The Election Code also reads

§ 3.004. ELECTION OF POLITICAL SUBDIVISION. (a) The
following authority shall order an election:
(1) the county judge, for the general election for
officers of the county government;
(2) the mayor, for the general election for city
officers in a city with a population of 1.9 million or more; and
(3) the governing body of a political subdivision,
other than a county or a city described by Subdivision (2), that has
elective offices, for the general election for those officers.
(b) If a law providing for an election relating to the
affairs of a political subdivision does not designate the authority
responsible for ordering the election, the governing body of the
political subdivision shall order the election.

This also demonstrates the controlling code to be within the duties & powers of the Education code

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 5:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

And now, they want to go back and refer to the Education Code (Board By Laws) as controlling the appointment?

"Board bylaws state that if there is a regent vacancy, the seat is to be filled by appointment."

If the election code controlled to elect then it should control the appointment as well.

Now after all of that I bet not one of you will say one word about this:

http://ccwatchdog.blogspot.com/2007/07/f...

and if that isnt enough, here is some more of the rotten

http://delmarhousekeeping.blogspot.com/2...

And there is a whole lot more.

Posted by intheknow on August 2, 2007 at 6:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If she did nothing wrong then why did she resign? If what you say is true and maybe it is, she should have fought. But it looks funny how she disconnects her phone and did not talk to the press. She just runs away? That is not what a "leader" would do. As far a gabe, he was voted out by the people and should not be picked to fill her spot again. He lost! Move on.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 7:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Have you ever been involved in Litigation?

We wanted her to fight and we supported her but her attorney wouldnt answer her calls, documents that were in her file began disappearing and she has received death threats and packages have been left on her doorstep. Linda is staying with a friend and she does not feel safe. Her brother's plight began with a student making a complaint from an incident in the offices of the Criminal Justice department at Del Mar during which an employee of Del Mar verbally abused three Hispanic students. Over the following months, that relatively minor incident mushroomed into a web of perjury, forgery, attempted capital murder, and gross violations of procedural due process. In their efforts to cover up a single violation of the civil rights of three students, the defendants began a long series of illegal actions that have caused unconscionable harm to two individuals who did nothing to harm Del Mar and who merely exercised their constitutional rights.

She has rarely talked to mainstream media.

A leader in Carlos Valdez? He did not answer the phone or talk to the press. Is he running away.

Gabe lost and I agree he should not return unless he is elected.

Move on yes, but we cannot allow the inconsistent application of standard / law.

In example I submit the City Council position Brent Chesney held while living in Dallas. He was asked to step down and the board was asked to take action as well as requests made to the DA asking for appropriate action to be taken.

Now, there is a blatant example.

Why Linda and why not Brent?

Posted by dannoynted1 on August 2, 2007 at 7:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Because he is special.

Posted by dannoynted1 on August 2, 2007 at 8:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Puppets and those who pull their strings reported above in black and white....and read all over!

Reported here first on caller.com.....I bet you erase me.

Posted by curtis on August 2, 2007 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Gabe was Cheated, not Unseated. If I play chess against someone who cheats and "wins," does he really win? In my opinion, no.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 9:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Curtis,

Cheating is when the rules get changed after check mate.

But, nothing I say will change your mind.

Gabe got whooped not by Linda but by the constituents of District 1.

That is a mandate for him to vacate.

He is unseated and yes he was defeated.

How do you cheat in a chess game?

Posted by clbcode on August 2, 2007 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The DA was after Ms. Linda.

No wonder she is running. The DA usually knows what he's doing.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 12:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This DA (and it has taken a lot for me to come to this conclusion), the DA has ulterior motives for the selectivity of who he chooses to enforce the law, and to justify, defend or ignore.

Why Linda?

Why not Brent Chesney?

And we all know why Carlos went after Linda.

Why did he not go after Chesney?

He is no different than Craddick.

When it gets like that it is time to go on the book circuit.

Both the DA and the Judge.

Linda might be gone but we figure we might as well hang around with our roach spray for a bit.

"The DA usually knows what he's doing"

Well ask him why he can find time to prosecute linda but he doesnt have the time to file a reply brief.

Ask him why he would rather Confess Error than do his JOB?

Posted by curtis on August 2, 2007 at 2:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

KingAlonzo, moving pieces around when it's not your turn and without your opponent's knowledge is a way to cheat at chess. It's very similar to what Linda did. Yes, Linda received the most votes but she was ineligible to run, she cheated. If she followed the rules, then would she have won? Nope.

Posted by caloriewatcher on August 2, 2007 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Seems like this should have been checked before she was even allowed to run for the position.

Posted by hkarsh on August 2, 2007 at 7:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was a candidate for the Del Mar Board of Regents. I picked up the package to run for office. I am College Educated. I have several degrees. I'm pretty good at reading and writing contracts and such. I'm not a lawyer and believe me I could have used a lawyer to explain all the stuff I was responsible for and had to do. Del Mar wasn't going to explain it to me and the local party bosses wouldn’t have anything to do with me. Del Mar certainly wasn't going to help Linda whose brother they had railroaded out of a job. Now Linda was the first person in a Corpus Christi Public Housing development to successfully run for a public office and her neighbors were very proud of her. So here we have a person who picked herself up by her bootstraps with out the aid of the local democratic or republican bosses and won her election. So what do the local politicos do and that includes our slimy DA, they go after her and shoot her down. Got to keep those lower classes out of local politics or who knows what might happen. Just for those of you who do not know, she wasn't welcomed by the Board either. I have no doubt from my many years of experience with Del Mar College if Linda had been a Regent the College wanted the DA would never have brought charges as much as people like me would have screamed for it. Adler and her cronies were looking for any excuse to get Linda out that they could dig up. Now Gabe Rivas who was voted out of office by the community he was supposed to have served because he mostly served himself and the corrupt DMC administration, wants his job back. We are looking at a long term appointment here. I hope this community puts the College on notice that another election is called for here.

Posted by dvillarreal1981 on August 2, 2007 at 8:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There's no way people should support Gabe Rivas now. He needs to go just as much as she does.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on August 2, 2007 at 9:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Good input Howard.

And very accurate.

As far as Linda and needing to go, she is gone.

But we're still here.

We need to call an election for this position and we might as well recall the whole damn board and the DA as well.

And for you Curtis,

Still the same hater as always I see.

Enjoy it Curtis, eat it up,

Bon Appétit

Corpus Christi Watchdog Authority: "nobody knows Mikal Watts better than Corpus Christi." But does Mikal Watts know us (the people of Corpus Christi)?

Quantum meruit: Ask no more and give no less than honesty, courage, loyalty, generosity, and fairness

Corpus Christi Watchdog Authority: "nobody knows Mikal Watts better than Corpus Christi." But does Mikal Watts know us (the people of Corpus Christi)?

The Kenedy Pasture Company: A Civil Action in the Making?

2007-07-02

A Civil Action in the Making?

Why must we flex our muscles?

Nueces County, CCISD, 105th Judicial District Attorney; how many kids were locked up without an attorney?

• There is no excuse for violating the basic human rights afforded under the United States Constitution.
• How many kids were locked up by a court of nonrecord?
• Not even with a parent's consent unless the parent has been given the opportunity to consult with counsel.
• How many children taken into custody were advised of their Miranda Rights?
• Oh yeah, Plaisted and every CCISD kid for whom, he provided service

.

What do we want?

Go do some homework, we want responsive representation with transparent operation.



We want to not be railroaded for tardies or for absences when the District does not practice due diligence in interdicting but is very diligent in recording the events and adamantly prosecutes and collects half of the fine. When the people cant pay the kids are picked up from class and taken in handcuffs to the court of nonrecord. The Parent is contacted and ordered to appear immediately. When the Parent arrives he or she is told to pay or your kid goes to jail and sometimes the parent is threatened and / or locked up as well. I have never seen a kid who has been provided counsel but I have witnessed many a kid go to jail.

And this from non responsive legislators who have enabled the School Administration to blame the parent when they allow children in their custody to roam at large unaccounted for and the District in coordination with the Courts of non record get paid (profit) from it.

2007-07-01

"Court Appointed Rolodex's". Nanotechnology and "Confessing Error" in a dog and pony show who operate like they are in a Kangaroo Court.

Nanotechnology at work right before our eyes finally an acknowledgment of what has been going on for quite a while now. The information in those "Court Appointed Rolodex's", there is gold in them hills. And this is going to start becoming available when? and for who? We have came to a narrowing of the road here in this alligning of energy fields. I can see it now we got Mikal who who is the adversary of my adversary John Cornyn. We also have the Honorable Judge Manuel Banales who needs to align with Mr Watts and vice versa. Does he want to run for mayor unopposed? I would rather see him correct the errors and run for Governor or Ascend to the Texas Supreme Court. Now, John Cornyn has "Confessed Error" and I assure you it wasn't out of fairness but in the essence of knocking the checkers off of the Table because he was going to lose. And Carlos Valdez & John Hubert "Confess Error" on appeal from the 105th. Hubert & Valdez "confess error" so they can conceal Mary Cano. And that is as painless as it gets.

Anton

CCCT Political Pulse

Mikal Watts seeks to round up list of Democrats for self, others

By Jaime Powell

A Monday noontime fundraiser at Vietnam restaurant for U.S. Senate hopeful Mikal Watts was a who's who of the local bar association and judiciary, including five district judges. Watts, who is living in San Antonio, told the crowd that "nobody knows Mikal Watts better than Corpus Christi."

Watts, a Democrat, who is seeking the seat held by Republican Sen. John Cornyn, asked the gathering to dig through their Rolodexes and e-mail address lists because he hopes to compile a statewide database to reach Democratic voters that can be used by all Texas Democrats.

"That way, when Judge (J. Manuel) Bañales runs for mayor he can use it," Watts joked, to uproarious laughter from the crowd and a big grin from Bañales, who was sitting on the front row.

2007-06-30

If you need an attorney.....if he is any good he will tell you watt an "Ander's Appeal" is? If he tells you not to worry about it.........FIRE HIM !!!

at 2:44:00 AM 0 responses Links to this article

The land is not being given away. This development include the local minority contractors (~40%)

Gambi Gamboa, civil rights chairman with LULAC No. 1, said a Westside development can ease traffic congestion in other areas of town.

"We want this out here," he said. "This will enhance our community."



Posted on June 10, 2007 at 00:17:44 AM by Jaime Kenedeno

"Representatives from LULAC, the American GI Forum, the NAACP, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce say the complex would bring jobs and spending to the west side, improving the neighborhood, and the outlook for neighborhood youth. They also say the site would keep dollars in the area, as opposed to shoppers doing their spending in other Texas cities."

JK: Really, I have not had an interest in this project until it has become apparent there is an issue of fairness involved. Should this center be built there is no assurance that the development will blossom. Then it can be sold or leased by institutions like Del Mar College (Albertsons) and like the Lantana shopping mall has been utilized and others not on the tip of my tongue right now. Nevertheless, the structure will be utilized and the infrastructure usage will be taxed; so yes, IMO the city should take responsibility for the infrastructure cost like all of the other projects and pet projects in the past.

"But, the developer has stated that work could not begin until the city agrees to reimburse any costs for enhancing the site's infrastructure. Water lines and road would would need to be done before construction could begin, and the community groups now speaking out - want to make sure the city commits to picking up the bill."

JK: I dont know who the Developer is at this point but he or she should be supported in this endeavor. The land is not being given away (if I am not mistaken). The only other issue is that this development include the local minority contractors (at least 40%).

Joe Ortiz, with the American GI Forum and LULAC, says, "You have a lot of other projects that have been done this way and the city is not committing to that. In other words, mister developer, you're on your own."

Who is Mister Developer?

Why would the city not support this growth?

The response I received from my network goes something like this:

"The development probably wont make it but let em build it, it is their money."

"The elite dont want to lose the hispanic westside $$$$$$$$$ while the Mall is booming. They want the west side to shop on the Southside."


"There shouldn't be any differentiation between the west and the south side. We are all in this South Padre Island Drive corridor," LULAC Council #4444 President Nancy Vera said Friday. "There's plenty of money to go around."

JK: To me, this area is still part of the southside.

This money is not the same money where we can shift it to funding the certification of our ballistics lab but we need to focus on that area as well.

CCT Readers Comment on Crosstown Development

Posted by abc123 on June 9, 2007 at 7:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There are many empty storefronts available for businesses on SPID and at the malls. I object to tax incentives for businesses to build new places instead of using what is available. The city will have to get the tax monies somewhere, and guess who will pay? If the new businesses cannot or will not compete with what is already in place they should not be subsidized by me and my tax money.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 7:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Turning this into a westside-southside issue just indicates the person does not have a clue as to the real issues but that is becoming normal here.

Posted by Houston_Rider on June 9, 2007 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wouldn't put a mall in that area. Everything North of Saratoga is over 25 years old. 75% of housing in CC is more than 30 years old. There are too many abandon buildings in this city. Even Southside strip malls are losing tenants.

Why would someone want to invest in an area that cant support itself? Attracting mainstream anchor stores and national chains is going to take more than location, its going to take people spending $$. For some reason LULAC thinks its being developed to give people jobs. No money is being spent here, we can't support the mall and shops we have now.

Posted by jimd on June 9, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This says it all! -- "Nancy Vera, president of League of United Latin American Citizens No. 4444 and members from LULAC No. 1, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce"

Now there's a fine group of business men and women! hah! And those groups are always looking for a handout. They will fight tooth and nail to keep seasoned developers from getting a tax incentive.

Posted by nl.lozano on June 9, 2007 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am currently in an office space at Sunrise Mall, where retail stores are becoming a thing of the past. Crosstown Commons will actively pursue anchor stores like Dillards and Sears. You should know that small retailers usually have a clause in their lease that allows them to break a lease if the anchor stores are closed. Another half empty mall is not what we need. If Crosstown Commons is so interested in our community, why don't they buy Sunrise Mall? Answer....because then they cannot use tax incentives for "improvements". Large anchor stores like Nordstroms and Bloomingdales will not come to Corpus Christi because our shopping population is not up to their standards. Let's open our eyes people, Crosstown Commons is in it for themselves. I support development in our city, but wrong is wrong, expecially when there are other existing options. By the way, I am Latino, and "we" don't always support LULAC!! haha

Posted by browntide on June 9, 2007 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not a Southside/Westside issue. Any reference to that is ridiculous! It is a Corpus Christi Issue!!

The Crosstown Commons wants to use future money they would otherwise have to pay to the City to give incentives to Pull, Rob, Steal and otherwise intice existing retailers in Corpus over to their project.....Just 4 miles away from where they already exist. More empty spaces and blight will result in those existing developments. They call this TIF/380 financing- but this is not what TIFs were intended to be used for.

Using a TIF to relocate existing retail businesses to one development at the expense of other developments is a BAD IDEA. Especially when the existing developments pay 100% of their share of sales taxes and property taxes. No Free Ride.

Has Crosstown promised Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms? NO! Why not? Because We Don't Have the high paying jobs that would support that kind of retail. They're taking Dillards, Macy's and Penny's and moving them up the street. Along with attempting to relocate many others.

Kansas City gave out TIFs and is $250 mil in the hole on broken promises by developers like Crosstown Commons!

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been looking at all sides of the issue - very open-mindedly I should add. I would support the granting of tax incentives to attract investment in Corpus Christi. This development is not supposed to be your local mall, and the point of this mall is to create something on a regional scale - not to compete with Padre Staples or Sunrise, but rather to compete with Shops at La Canterra in San Antonio. We need to start looking less local, and more regional and more global. Of course it will attract local shoppers, and that certainly is part of their market - but they're really interested in bringing outsiders into Corpus Christi for shopping. I personally don't see anything wrong with this.

Now, in terms of the abandoned and empty buildings throughout Corpus Christi, we all know this is a natural cycle. Look at any advanced economy or economically developed city, and there will be flight and empty buildings that come with it. Businesses want to be where the next big thing is, especially the retail business which is clearly about trends. Eventually, something will happen to redevelop the empty buildings such as the proposed improvements to the Lichenstein Building, or Wal Mart buying Parkdale Plaza with plans to redevelop.

I think this development will be a good stimulus not just for the Westside of town, but the entire region - ONLY if Crosstown Commons markets it correctly as a regional mall which they say they intend to do. We know that developers aren't always forthright, but then again neither are opponents of development either. My contention is that if the Crosstown Commons intends to make this mall something regional to market throughout South Texas, then I would support it. If not, then there's no point in building this mall or providing tax incentives through a TIF.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I take offense to the statement that individuals living in housing south of Saratoga can not sustain themselves financially. I live in this area and our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place. If you create perimeters around the land where crosstown commons will be located with a radius of about 2 miles you will find housing ranging anywhere from a low of $20000 to a high of $200000-350000. Ask johnny carinos, fuddruckers, or other businesses if they are profiting and I can assure you they are doing just fine. The real problem is that competition is not valued. The Padre Staples mall has so many empty stores because they charge to much rental space. I'm sure that will be going down when we introduce Crosstown Commons. Wake up people! Do you want to continue living the lifestyle of the Geico Neanderthal or are you ready to move into the 21st Century? Lifestyles attract people to live in communities and we must adapt to that change.

Posted by dcardona on June 9, 2007 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How can any one say it's not a West and South issue? If this was being built on the Southside how many of you would remember the issues of our already depleted malls. Westside is becoming run down only because all money is spend on new development on the Southside. How many new shopping centers, gyms, restaurants have opened or will be opened along Staples/Saratoga area? Repaved or adding new and better streets are on the Southside. So...How many of you complained of abandon buildings or traffic conjestions when these were being built in Southside? I can bet none.
It's about time Westside will have something to better this part of Corpus Christi. Maybe now Corpus Christi will include us in repaved, better streets, tax revenue to better our area, and more jobs.
No matter where you live in we all live in Corpus Christi. Westside, Southside, Northside, Eastside...or wherever we are all one City.
By the way...you ever wonder why our malls are lacking traffic, why we have abandon building/shopping centers...where do you all shop? San Antonio, Dallas, San Marcos Outlets..maybe it's time we quit spending our monies in other Cities and take care of ours. This new development just might be what Corpus Christ needs to get new developers in our area, thus making us a Better City. And just maybe, all you out of town shoppers just might considered to shop here if we had the same stores just as SA or the Outlets.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Crosstown Commons is a great idea for our entire city. If this community is a ghost town, it is because we continue to succumb to antiquated attitudes and ideas. The tone of some of the letters above reeks with pessimism and bitterness. I have paid taxes in Corpus Christi all of my life - in fact - my family has paid taxes in this city for over a century. It is my belief that this development will bring positive growth for the entire city. I, too, sometimes disagree with the stance that some civic and civil rights organizations take, but that doesn't mean I am always right. The position taken on this development by LULAC, the NAACP, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is based on extensive quality research and what they believe is in the best interest of ALL the citizens in Corpus Christi - not just for a select few. The opportunities for small business growth will multiply, job opportunities will multiply, and the standard of living for our citizens will increase. If we stick with old ideas, we will be stuck in the economic dark ages for another century. I say out with the old and in with the new. Let's raise our standards rather than sticking with what we believe is safe. Be not afraid. We are jeopardizing our future if we stick to old-fashioned ideas. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for our community. The TIF will be paid for by future property tax on the property on which Crosstown Commons will be developed. Additionally, the sales tax that is generated by this project will be significant. We can use this money for education and for city improvements. We need the roads and we need the development. What we don't need are people who continually stunt the growth of our community because of their brash and loud negativity or because they want to monopolize the economic market in our city to get richer. Do your research, please. It's time for all of us to share in the piece of the pie.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Additionally, the city has spent tax dollars improving the streets around the Sunrise Mall and the Padre Staples Mall. These establishments have had an opportunity to enhance their buildings and business for years. Even the idea of a little competition has spurred renovations at Padre Staples Mall. It seems to me that competition will be a valuable win for the consumer in this city. This is a good thing. :)

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks, like Rene Saenz still has political aspirations. Using this as a photo opportunity and a chance to be seen as a voice for the Westside. A champion for the Westside because he lives on the Westside. Gimme a break, your domicile is an excuse for you to seek a political office.

Were do you teach government at Mr. Saenz? At Carroll High School, on the Central Southside area of the city! Why are you not truly standing up for the Westside by teaching at Miller High School or any of the middle schools located on the Westside? A typical political opportunist, who will be running in the next local election as a champion of the Westside. The hypocrisy.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Miller HS did not give me the job although I went to apply several times. I was a soccer coach at miller HS last year. I can't force the principal to give me a job even if I apply for it. Carroll HS saw me as an asset and offered me the job. I am proud to work at Carroll HS. I grew up in the westside and my family still live iin the westside. I guess some people are still taking it hard that I did not endorse their preferred candidate, the one with the least qualifications. I guess mikeisalone is worried that I might be running against their preferred candidate in two years. At least I don't hide behind a hinden name because my name is exposed. You should consider exposing your name unless you were like your preferred candidate who did not expose herself to the public.

Posted by drtcpip on June 9, 2007 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Viva La Raza! Tax breaks for the Wal-Marts, man! Power to da people, man! Viva Wal-Mart. Tax breaks for da people man! Eh gringo, subsidize my Wal-Mart man.

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 4:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In an interview with the Caller Times, CCISD Superintendent Scott Elliff stated, "administrators met with the applicants over a week-long period, assessing them in areas of content knowledge, instructional strategies and commitment to Miller and its students."(Garza n.p.) Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times.

Elliff also stated that the "idea of reconstitution of staff is to be able to select a team with a common vision, and a passion for educating students in a challenging environment.” (Garza) So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?!

In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”

Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too. Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it. I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing.

My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying
Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I am not attacking you personally, what I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities.

Works Cited

“Rene Saenz to run for City Council District 3”. Caller Times 4 Jan. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.A.P. Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/jan/04/r...

Garza, Adrian. “Changes at Miller pull heartstrings”. Caller Times 20 May. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.P.A.Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/may/20/c....

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

drtcpip - Your statements reflect intolerance and mendacity.

Mr. Wilson, Thank you for studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I would like meet with you to discuss your perspective. My e-mail address is nvera43@aol.com. Priscilla Leal is the lead supporter of the Crosstown Commons. She's doing a fantastic job.

Posted by jpercer on June 9, 2007 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why on earth would anyone want to bring a Neiman Marcus to Corpus Christi? I'd challenge everyone here to go into a Neiman Marcus (There's one in San Antonio, On La Cantera), go to the mens section, and look at the price tags for the same T-Shirt you can get at wal mart, for about 80 dollars more. This isn't the kind of development we need for Corpus Christi. I appreciate the initiative, but please keep the development realistic with our population.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nvera you have to be kidding yourself if you think that extensive research was done by those organizations. They bought the line by the developer and besides that it was a line they wanted to believe even if it was not true.

Posted by intheknow on June 9, 2007 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Folks, look deeper into who has $ intrest in the development. Who will build it, who will fin it, who will rent it, ect. Its the same old establishment. Lets make sure that fin disclousers are filed. Let a little sun in and see what happens. How much you want to bet joe fulton gets the contract to build it! The song remains the same. The same people who back the caller times. Old corpus money. The song remains the same.

Posted by amadeus3678 on June 9, 2007 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why on earth would Dillards or Macy or any other high class store want to build right behind Tinseltown, where just a couple of years ago little hoods killed people at night coming out of the theatre.

If you don't think that's gang territory over there, I suggest you take a drive down Greenwood and Gollihar, oh yeah, West Point is close by too. And Prescott. And tell me if you saw ONE single house or wood fence that didn't have gang graffiti on it. I dare you.

And you really think that Dillards and Macy's want to have a store close to THAT neighbourhood?

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On the contrary, inthe know, it is old money that wants to keep the status quo. Will you please do your research?

amadeaus 3678, there have been stabbings, murders and graffiti all over this town. Maybe we should have closed the malls when there was a stabbing? You are stereotyping. We must stop confusing this economic issue with name calling and stereotyping. I live in this neighborhood and I am sorry that you think all of us are thugs. Oh, and my house has never been vandalized or had gang graffiti painted on it. It's time for economic growth!

Posted by stff on June 9, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Count this white boy from Calallen in favor of this project.

It sounds like to me the old boy network here in Corpus has done an excellent job brainwashing a certain segment of the population that tax breaks for economic development is bad. Alot of the old boy network as I can tell are the local developers and without naming names, they have done their part in derailing certain projects that have been proposed around this city (think bayfront).

You want evidence of the old boy network look no further than the current and soon the be former owners of Padre Staples Mall. They have done ZERO to improve their mall because they were content on what they had because they have managed to keep out the competetion. Finally some developers and proven people in the mall business called their bluff and announced this project at the Crosstown. And what do they do? The very next day they annnounce all of these renovations and now in the last week they annoucned they will be selling a majority stake to a big mall holding company. if I were Macys of Dillards and some one wanted to build something cutting edge and new, I'd jump in heartbeat since the soon to be prior management dragged their feet with improvments. Heck those merchants and others know tthat good money is leaving this town that should be staying here.

As a former Valley resident that keeps up with the news and happening down there, I can contest the progressive valley cities down there have used tax incentives that make the one asked by CBL look like peanuts for all sorts of development. Mercedes is the home of a new outlets mall and part of the deal was the company that built that mall would get a sizeable % of tax receipts that would decrease by the year. And what has happened ? The net revenues to the city after the company gets their share have increased. And those revenues are being used to pay for city services that otherwise would have to come from the property tax base. What a novel concept that maybe the folks that complain about high property taxes around here should think twice before shutting the door on a business or industry that might be able to help offset those increase or even lower the burden of property taxpayers.

Another thing the againers are going to have to get over and realize real quick is if you all that cry about our kids leaving because their are no jobs if you want the big, high tech type business to even give Corpus the time of day, we are going to have to offer tax incentives. Please find a large metro area in this state that does not dangle those type of carrots to get big employers to move in. San Antonio has done with Toyota and Mircrosoft. Why does Corpus have to be different? And yes they do pay attention to how we deal with prior opportunites , no matter how small or big they might be.

Maybe it's going to take the younger generation (under 40) to get this done? Sooner or later we will reverse this attitude in this town.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times."
Twice to be exact. The first time I was offered but I had already accepted another job. The second time non-hispanics interviewed me and I later found out that the one who got the job was a personal friend of one who conducted the interview. Can't compete with politics and getting a job. Sometimes a persons credentials doesn't matter. You've heard the saying "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Maybe it is that kind of decision making that has placed Miller HS, the school that I went to, in the condition that it is in.

"So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?"
When reconstitution went in to effect, I didn't bother to apply. I'm working with the best principal in CCISD. BEsides don't want to be in a working environment where tensions ran high between administration and teachers. The politics of employment does play a factor. Also, wouldn't be able to transfer for two years even if I wanted to.

"In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”"

Or maybe I am just a damn good teacher. You seem you prejudge me as if somehow you know everything about me. Yes I live in the area around Carroll and my socioeconomic status has increased. But that comes from hard work and discipline. See I came from the westside and grew up in a three room house on Mohawk St, you know in la quarenta, went to Lozano, Oak Park, Driscoll, and Miller. Went to UT-Austin and graduated with a BA in government with a minor in history. I could have chosen not to come back to CC but I did and have been active in politics before I went to UT and after. My participation in the Crosstown Commons Press Conference came to me by e-mail urging some of us to attend. I did so and when I got there I was asked to speak so I did. I do not know what type of mentality you refer to since you do not know me personally. I guess your classes in Mexican AMerican History and Politics has clouded your mind with false images. As far as trying to fill Noyola's shoes he is his own person and I am my own. My ideals are set in stone built from many years of community involvement and activism.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too."
Can you prove that? Nope! that's what I thought. You seem to think you know plenty but unfortunately you don't know anything. I'll be praying for you tonight that the lord help you find some common sense.

"Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it."
Again I was asked to attend this event and then asked to speak. At the beginning I was out of the sight of the camara's but when asked to come into the crowd I did. When asked to speak I did based on my strong feelings about the issue at hand. The issue is good for the area, region, but most importantly the westside. Seems to me you don't think this crosstown commons is no good for Corpus Christi. You also seem bothered by me being in the photo. Well I'm sure as a Leal supporter I would be bothered to and be making statements of a conspiracy. Well tough! I already gave my reason for being on tv and the paper.

"I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing."

For a student at TAMUCC you sure don't know very much, especially when it comes to journalism. The Jan. 4, 2007 sheet that they wrote did not include about 90% of what I said. The writer chooses what they write a place in the paper and everything else gets left out. I am not a one issue person and if you'd like, you can give me your address and I will send you my material that I used when I went blockwalking. I agree what was written was not everything and I ran on many issues which is stated in my literature. In fact the TIF I was also advocating included the neighborhoods around certain areas in the district to be utilized for only neighborhood development of infrustructure. That was not mentioned in the article. In fact, I'm the only candidate that took that position. You see there is much you need to learn about the Mexican AMerican and politics and you don't get it from an article on a paper.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

'My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas."
So who is your instructor and what is your major? What is the argument in your thesis? Would like to see your work if it even exists. I also am doing work on Mexican American History and Politics and it's titled " From Bullets to Ballots: The Origins and Evolution of Mexican American Civil Rights in Texas, 1836-1920."
You see you are studying things I studied as an undergraduate taking Chicano Studies courses at UT so what you say is nothing new to me. My study deals with the more radical years of insurrections and revolts with players such as Vicente Cardova (1838), Juan Cortina (1858), Catarino Garza (1890), and the Plan de San Diego years (1915-1918). You are looking at Mexican American Politics from a narrow glass. You still need much to learn about the culture, history, and politics considering your outside status.

"I am not attacking you personally"
Yes you are and you demonstrated that above. But I have been attacked and accused of many things that is not true but I laugh it off. And I'm sure that in your study of Mexican American Politics you will encounter (Anglo) people like yourself who make false accusations against a Mexican AMerican who only seek the best for their community regardless of their ethnicity.

"I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities."

Accusations that cannot be proven. You make all these assertions without evidence to back your conclusion. Your work cited is weak and at UT Austin they'd throw you out for making assertions with no evidence to back your conclusions.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OH by the way, everything you make reference to are you accusing all the individuals that showed up to the press conference, including Nancy Vera, Joe Cisneros, etc., all in same category as attempting to replace the Anglo political system? If Priscilla Leal is a strong supporter of this Crosstown Commons project wouldn't that make her part of that class of MExican Americans attempting to the replace the "Anglo" political system?

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not surprising but discussion gets off the real issues and ignores that not a person at that press conference has or could evaluate the information on which they are relying. They are all just supportive of this based on the information provided by the developer combined with their wanting it to be true. If this project were being proposed on the Island or on Saratoga, I have a feeling they would be opposing that and advocating the other location.

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

InTheKnow, I'm pretty sure the General Contractor will be EMJ Corporation and not Fulton Construction. EMJ is a company that is related to CBL. Perhaps Fulton will do some work, and if so good for them, but I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation unless they provide some other construction services on the project which I doubt. So I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation. There's also a lot of subcontractors out there that would have a tremendous opportunity to do work including electricians, HVAC, plumbing, concrete suppliers, etc. This project is estimated to be a two year project, so there's a lot of construction work to be accomplished.

And I personally know Rene Saenz, and he is a good man, not a political opportunist. He is very involved in politics, and most of the time (99.9%) I disagree with him on issues - but I know he has a good heart and cares about Corpus Christi. He and I just have different ways about caring for the community. I'm actually glad he and I finally agree on a development idea.

Posted by nvera43 on June 10, 2007 at 12:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Truthincc, How can you make such blanket statements? I have extensive educational and personal experience in analysis, statistics, business and scholarly writings. People at the press conference included business people, educators, attorneys and doctors. Your statements ring hollow when they are based on assumption and personal prejudices.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Representatives from LULAC, the American GI Forum, the NAACP, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce say the complex would bring jobs and spending to the west side, improving the neighborhood, and the outlook for neighborhood youth. They also say the site would keep dollars in the area, as opposed to shoppers doing their spending in other Texas cities."

JK: Really, I have not had an interest in this project until it has become apparent there is an issue of fairness involved. Should this center be built there is no assurance that the development will blossom. Then it can be sold or leased by institutions like Del Mar College (Albertsons) and like the Lantana shopping mall has been utilized and others not on the tip of my tongue right now. Nevertheless, the structure will be utilized and the infrastructure usage will be taxed; so yes, IMO the city should take responsibility for the infrastructure cost like all of the other projects and pet projects in the past.

"But, the developer has stated that work could not begin until the city agrees to reimburse any costs for enhancing the site's infrastructure. Water lines and road would would need to be done before construction could begin, and the community groups now speaking out - want to make sure the city commits to picking up the bill."

JK: I dont know who the Developer is at this point but he or she should be supported in this endeavor. The land is not being given away (if I am not mistaken). The only other issue is that this development include the local minority contractors (at least 40%).

Joe Ortiz, with the American GI Forum and LULAC, says, "You have a lot of other projects that have been done this way and the city is not committing to that. In other words, mister developer, you're on your own."

Who is Mister Developer?

Why would the city not support this growth?

The response I received from my network goes something like this:

"The development probably wont make it but let em build it, it is their money."

"The elite dont want to lose the hispanic westside $$$$$$$$$ while the Mall is booming. They want the west side to shop on the Southside."

"There shouldn't be any differentiation between the west and the south side. We are all in this South Padre Island Drive corridor," LULAC Council #4444 President Nancy Vera said Friday. "There's plenty of money to go around."

JK: To me, this area is still part of the southside.

This money is not the same money where we can shift it to funding the certification of our ballistics lab but we need to focus on that area as well.

Posted by abc123 on June 9, 2007 at 7:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There are many empty storefronts available for businesses on SPID and at the malls. I object to tax incentives for businesses to build new places instead of using what is available. The city will have to get the tax monies somewhere, and guess who will pay? If the new businesses cannot or will not compete with what is already in place they should not be subsidized by me and my tax money.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 7:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Turning this into a westside-southside issue just indicates the person does not have a clue as to the real issues but that is becoming normal here.

Posted by Houston_Rider on June 9, 2007 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wouldn't put a mall in that area. Everything North of Saratoga is over 25 years old. 75% of housing in CC is more than 30 years old. There are too many abandon buildings in this city. Even Southside strip malls are losing tenants.

Why would someone want to invest in an area that cant support itself? Attracting mainstream anchor stores and national chains is going to take more than location, its going to take people spending $$. For some reason LULAC thinks its being developed to give people jobs. No money is being spent here, we can't support the mall and shops we have now.

Posted by jimd on June 9, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This says it all! -- "Nancy Vera, president of League of United Latin American Citizens No. 4444 and members from LULAC No. 1, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce"

Now there's a fine group of business men and women! hah! And those groups are always looking for a handout. They will fight tooth and nail to keep seasoned developers from getting a tax incentive.

Posted by nl.lozano on June 9, 2007 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am currently in an office space at Sunrise Mall, where retail stores are becoming a thing of the past. Crosstown Commons will actively pursue anchor stores like Dillards and Sears. You should know that small retailers usually have a clause in their lease that allows them to break a lease if the anchor stores are closed. Another half empty mall is not what we need. If Crosstown Commons is so interested in our community, why don't they buy Sunrise Mall? Answer....because then they cannot use tax incentives for "improvements". Large anchor stores like Nordstroms and Bloomingdales will not come to Corpus Christi because our shopping population is not up to their standards. Let's open our eyes people, Crosstown Commons is in it for themselves. I support development in our city, but wrong is wrong, expecially when there are other existing options. By the way, I am Latino, and "we" don't always support LULAC!! haha

Posted by browntide on June 9, 2007 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not a Southside/Westside issue. Any reference to that is ridiculous! It is a Corpus Christi Issue!!

The Crosstown Commons wants to use future money they would otherwise have to pay to the City to give incentives to Pull, Rob, Steal and otherwise intice existing retailers in Corpus over to their project.....Just 4 miles away from where they already exist. More empty spaces and blight will result in those existing developments. They call this TIF/380 financing- but this is not what TIFs were intended to be used for.

Using a TIF to relocate existing retail businesses to one development at the expense of other developments is a BAD IDEA. Especially when the existing developments pay 100% of their share of sales taxes and property taxes. No Free Ride.

Has Crosstown promised Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms? NO! Why not? Because We Don't Have the high paying jobs that would support that kind of retail. They're taking Dillards, Macy's and Penny's and moving them up the street. Along with attempting to relocate many others.

Kansas City gave out TIFs and is $250 mil in the hole on broken promises by developers like Crosstown Commons!

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been looking at all sides of the issue - very open-mindedly I should add. I would support the granting of tax incentives to attract investment in Corpus Christi. This development is not supposed to be your local mall, and the point of this mall is to create something on a regional scale - not to compete with Padre Staples or Sunrise, but rather to compete with Shops at La Canterra in San Antonio. We need to start looking less local, and more regional and more global. Of course it will attract local shoppers, and that certainly is part of their market - but they're really interested in bringing outsiders into Corpus Christi for shopping. I personally don't see anything wrong with this.

Now, in terms of the abandoned and empty buildings throughout Corpus Christi, we all know this is a natural cycle. Look at any advanced economy or economically developed city, and there will be flight and empty buildings that come with it. Businesses want to be where the next big thing is, especially the retail business which is clearly about trends. Eventually, something will happen to redevelop the empty buildings such as the proposed improvements to the Lichenstein Building, or Wal Mart buying Parkdale Plaza with plans to redevelop.

I think this development will be a good stimulus not just for the Westside of town, but the entire region - ONLY if Crosstown Commons markets it correctly as a regional mall which they say they intend to do. We know that developers aren't always forthright, but then again neither are opponents of development either. My contention is that if the Crosstown Commons intends to make this mall something regional to market throughout South Texas, then I would support it. If not, then there's no point in building this mall or providing tax incentives through a TIF.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I take offense to the statement that individuals living in housing south of Saratoga can not sustain themselves financially. I live in this area and our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place. If you create perimeters around the land where crosstown commons will be located with a radius of about 2 miles you will find housing ranging anywhere from a low of $20000 to a high of $200000-350000. Ask johnny carinos, fuddruckers, or other businesses if they are profiting and I can assure you they are doing just fine. The real problem is that competition is not valued. The Padre Staples mall has so many empty stores because they charge to much rental space. I'm sure that will be going down when we introduce Crosstown Commons. Wake up people! Do you want to continue living the lifestyle of the Geico Neanderthal or are you ready to move into the 21st Century? Lifestyles attract people to live in communities and we must adapt to that change.

Posted by dcardona on June 9, 2007 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How can any one say it's not a West and South issue? If this was being built on the Southside how many of you would remember the issues of our already depleted malls. Westside is becoming run down only because all money is spend on new development on the Southside. How many new shopping centers, gyms, restaurants have opened or will be opened along Staples/Saratoga area? Repaved or adding new and better streets are on the Southside. So...How many of you complained of abandon buildings or traffic conjestions when these were being built in Southside? I can bet none.
It's about time Westside will have something to better this part of Corpus Christi. Maybe now Corpus Christi will include us in repaved, better streets, tax revenue to better our area, and more jobs.
No matter where you live in we all live in Corpus Christi. Westside, Southside, Northside, Eastside...or wherever we are all one City.
By the way...you ever wonder why our malls are lacking traffic, why we have abandon building/shopping centers...where do you all shop? San Antonio, Dallas, San Marcos Outlets..maybe it's time we quit spending our monies in other Cities and take care of ours. This new development just might be what Corpus Christ needs to get new developers in our area, thus making us a Better City. And just maybe, all you out of town shoppers just might considered to shop here if we had the same stores just as SA or the Outlets.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Crosstown Commons is a great idea for our entire city. If this community is a ghost town, it is because we continue to succumb to antiquated attitudes and ideas. The tone of some of the letters above reeks with pessimism and bitterness. I have paid taxes in Corpus Christi all of my life - in fact - my family has paid taxes in this city for over a century. It is my belief that this development will bring positive growth for the entire city. I, too, sometimes disagree with the stance that some civic and civil rights organizations take, but that doesn't mean I am always right. The position taken on this development by LULAC, the NAACP, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is based on extensive quality research and what they believe is in the best interest of ALL the citizens in Corpus Christi - not just for a select few. The opportunities for small business growth will multiply, job opportunities will multiply, and the standard of living for our citizens will increase. If we stick with old ideas, we will be stuck in the economic dark ages for another century. I say out with the old and in with the new. Let's raise our standards rather than sticking with what we believe is safe. Be not afraid. We are jeopardizing our future if we stick to old-fashioned ideas. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for our community. The TIF will be paid for by future property tax on the property on which Crosstown Commons will be developed. Additionally, the sales tax that is generated by this project will be significant. We can use this money for education and for city improvements. We need the roads and we need the development. What we don't need are people who continually stunt the growth of our community because of their brash and loud negativity or because they want to monopolize the economic market in our city to get richer. Do your research, please. It's time for all of us to share in the piece of the pie.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Additionally, the city has spent tax dollars improving the streets around the Sunrise Mall and the Padre Staples Mall. These establishments have had an opportunity to enhance their buildings and business for years. Even the idea of a little competition has spurred renovations at Padre Staples Mall. It seems to me that competition will be a valuable win for the consumer in this city. This is a good thing. :)

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks, like Rene Saenz still has political aspirations. Using this as a photo opportunity and a chance to be seen as a voice for the Westside. A champion for the Westside because he lives on the Westside. Gimme a break, your domicile is an excuse for you to seek a political office.

Were do you teach government at Mr. Saenz? At Carroll High School, on the Central Southside area of the city! Why are you not truly standing up for the Westside by teaching at Miller High School or any of the middle schools located on the Westside? A typical political opportunist, who will be running in the next local election as a champion of the Westside. The hypocrisy.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Miller HS did not give me the job although I went to apply several times. I was a soccer coach at miller HS last year. I can't force the principal to give me a job even if I apply for it. Carroll HS saw me as an asset and offered me the job. I am proud to work at Carroll HS. I grew up in the westside and my family still live iin the westside. I guess some people are still taking it hard that I did not endorse their preferred candidate, the one with the least qualifications. I guess mikeisalone is worried that I might be running against their preferred candidate in two years. At least I don't hide behind a hinden name because my name is exposed. You should consider exposing your name unless you were like your preferred candidate who did not expose herself to the public.

Posted by drtcpip on June 9, 2007 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Viva La Raza! Tax breaks for the Wal-Marts, man! Power to da people, man! Viva Wal-Mart. Tax breaks for da people man! Eh gringo, subsidize my Wal-Mart man.

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 4:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In an interview with the Caller Times, CCISD Superintendent Scott Elliff stated, "administrators met with the applicants over a week-long period, assessing them in areas of content knowledge, instructional strategies and commitment to Miller and its students."(Garza n.p.) Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times.

Elliff also stated that the "idea of reconstitution of staff is to be able to select a team with a common vision, and a passion for educating students in a challenging environment.” (Garza) So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?!

In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”

Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too. Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it. I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing.

My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying
Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I am not attacking you personally, what I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities.

Works Cited

“Rene Saenz to run for City Council District 3”. Caller Times 4 Jan. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.A.P. Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/jan/04/r...

Garza, Adrian. “Changes at Miller pull heartstrings”. Caller Times 20 May. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.P.A.Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/may/20/c....

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

drtcpip - Your statements reflect intolerance and mendacity.

Mr. Wilson, Thank you for studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I would like meet with you to discuss your perspective. My e-mail address is nvera43@aol.com. Priscilla Leal is the lead supporter of the Crosstown Commons. She's doing a fantastic job.

Posted by jpercer on June 9, 2007 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why on earth would anyone want to bring a Neiman Marcus to Corpus Christi? I'd challenge everyone here to go into a Neiman Marcus (There's one in San Antonio, On La Cantera), go to the mens section, and look at the price tags for the same T-Shirt you can get at wal mart, for about 80 dollars more. This isn't the kind of development we need for Corpus Christi. I appreciate the initiative, but please keep the development realistic with our population.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nvera you have to be kidding yourself if you think that extensive research was done by those organizations. They bought the line by the developer and besides that it was a line they wanted to believe even if it was not true.

Posted by intheknow on June 9, 2007 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Folks, look deeper into who has $ intrest in the development. Who will build it, who will fin it, who will rent it, ect. Its the same old establishment. Lets make sure that fin disclousers are filed. Let a little sun in and see what happens. How much you want to bet joe fulton gets the contract to build it! The song remains the same. The same people who back the caller times. Old corpus money. The song remains the same.

Posted by amadeus3678 on June 9, 2007 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why on earth would Dillards or Macy or any other high class store want to build right behind Tinseltown, where just a couple of years ago little hoods killed people at night coming out of the theatre.

If you don't think that's gang territory over there, I suggest you take a drive down Greenwood and Gollihar, oh yeah, West Point is close by too. And Prescott. And tell me if you saw ONE single house or wood fence that didn't have gang graffiti on it. I dare you.

And you really think that Dillards and Macy's want to have a store close to THAT neighbourhood?

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On the contrary, inthe know, it is old money that wants to keep the status quo. Will you please do your research?

amadeaus 3678, there have been stabbings, murders and graffiti all over this town. Maybe we should have closed the malls when there was a stabbing? You are stereotyping. We must stop confusing this economic issue with name calling and stereotyping. I live in this neighborhood and I am sorry that you think all of us are thugs. Oh, and my house has never been vandalized or had gang graffiti painted on it. It's time for economic growth!

Posted by stff on June 9, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Count this white boy from Calallen in favor of this project.

It sounds like to me the old boy network here in Corpus has done an excellent job brainwashing a certain segment of the population that tax breaks for economic development is bad. Alot of the old boy network as I can tell are the local developers and without naming names, they have done their part in derailing certain projects that have been proposed around this city (think bayfront).

You want evidence of the old boy network look no further than the current and soon the be former owners of Padre Staples Mall. They have done ZERO to improve their mall because they were content on what they had because they have managed to keep out the competetion. Finally some developers and proven people in the mall business called their bluff and announced this project at the Crosstown. And what do they do? The very next day they annnounce all of these renovations and now in the last week they annoucned they will be selling a majority stake to a big mall holding company. if I were Macys of Dillards and some one wanted to build something cutting edge and new, I'd jump in heartbeat since the soon to be prior management dragged their feet with improvments. Heck those merchants and others know tthat good money is leaving this town that should be staying here.

As a former Valley resident that keeps up with the news and happening down there, I can contest the progressive valley cities down there have used tax incentives that make the one asked by CBL look like peanuts for all sorts of development. Mercedes is the home of a new outlets mall and part of the deal was the company that built that mall would get a sizeable % of tax receipts that would decrease by the year. And what has happened ? The net revenues to the city after the company gets their share have increased. And those revenues are being used to pay for city services that otherwise would have to come from the property tax base. What a novel concept that maybe the folks that complain about high property taxes around here should think twice before shutting the door on a business or industry that might be able to help offset those increase or even lower the burden of property taxpayers.

Another thing the againers are going to have to get over and realize real quick is if you all that cry about our kids leaving because their are no jobs if you want the big, high tech type business to even give Corpus the time of day, we are going to have to offer tax incentives. Please find a large metro area in this state that does not dangle those type of carrots to get big employers to move in. San Antonio has done with Toyota and Mircrosoft. Why does Corpus have to be different? And yes they do pay attention to how we deal with prior opportunites , no matter how small or big they might be.

Maybe it's going to take the younger generation (under 40) to get this done? Sooner or later we will reverse this attitude in this town.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times."
Twice to be exact. The first time I was offered but I had already accepted another job. The second time non-hispanics interviewed me and I later found out that the one who got the job was a personal friend of one who conducted the interview. Can't compete with politics and getting a job. Sometimes a persons credentials doesn't matter. You've heard the saying "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Maybe it is that kind of decision making that has placed Miller HS, the school that I went to, in the condition that it is in.

"So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?"
When reconstitution went in to effect, I didn't bother to apply. I'm working with the best principal in CCISD. BEsides don't want to be in a working environment where tensions ran high between administration and teachers. The politics of employment does play a factor. Also, wouldn't be able to transfer for two years even if I wanted to.

"In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”"

Or maybe I am just a damn good teacher. You seem you prejudge me as if somehow you know everything about me. Yes I live in the area around Carroll and my socioeconomic status has increased. But that comes from hard work and discipline. See I came from the westside and grew up in a three room house on Mohawk St, you know in la quarenta, went to Lozano, Oak Park, Driscoll, and Miller. Went to UT-Austin and graduated with a BA in government with a minor in history. I could have chosen not to come back to CC but I did and have been active in politics before I went to UT and after. My participation in the Crosstown Commons Press Conference came to me by e-mail urging some of us to attend. I did so and when I got there I was asked to speak so I did. I do not know what type of mentality you refer to since you do not know me personally. I guess your classes in Mexican AMerican History and Politics has clouded your mind with false images. As far as trying to fill Noyola's shoes he is his own person and I am my own. My ideals are set in stone built from many years of community involvement and activism.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too."
Can you prove that? Nope! that's what I thought. You seem to think you know plenty but unfortunately you don't know anything. I'll be praying for you tonight that the lord help you find some common sense.

"Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it."
Again I was asked to attend this event and then asked to speak. At the beginning I was out of the sight of the camara's but when asked to come into the crowd I did. When asked to speak I did based on my strong feelings about the issue at hand. The issue is good for the area, region, but most importantly the westside. Seems to me you don't think this crosstown commons is no good for Corpus Christi. You also seem bothered by me being in the photo. Well I'm sure as a Leal supporter I would be bothered to and be making statements of a conspiracy. Well tough! I already gave my reason for being on tv and the paper.

"I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing."

For a student at TAMUCC you sure don't know very much, especially when it comes to journalism. The Jan. 4, 2007 sheet that they wrote did not include about 90% of what I said. The writer chooses what they write a place in the paper and everything else gets left out. I am not a one issue person and if you'd like, you can give me your address and I will send you my material that I used when I went blockwalking. I agree what was written was not everything and I ran on many issues which is stated in my literature. In fact the TIF I was also advocating included the neighborhoods around certain areas in the district to be utilized for only neighborhood development of infrustructure. That was not mentioned in the article. In fact, I'm the only candidate that took that position. You see there is much you need to learn about the Mexican AMerican and politics and you don't get it from an article on a paper.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

'My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas."
So who is your instructor and what is your major? What is the argument in your thesis? Would like to see your work if it even exists. I also am doing work on Mexican American History and Politics and it's titled " From Bullets to Ballots: The Origins and Evolution of Mexican American Civil Rights in Texas, 1836-1920."
You see you are studying things I studied as an undergraduate taking Chicano Studies courses at UT so what you say is nothing new to me. My study deals with the more radical years of insurrections and revolts with players such as Vicente Cardova (1838), Juan Cortina (1858), Catarino Garza (1890), and the Plan de San Diego years (1915-1918). You are looking at Mexican American Politics from a narrow glass. You still need much to learn about the culture, history, and politics considering your outside status.

"I am not attacking you personally"
Yes you are and you demonstrated that above. But I have been attacked and accused of many things that is not true but I laugh it off. And I'm sure that in your study of Mexican American Politics you will encounter (Anglo) people like yourself who make false accusations against a Mexican AMerican who only seek the best for their community regardless of their ethnicity.

"I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities."

Accusations that cannot be proven. You make all these assertions without evidence to back your conclusion. Your work cited is weak and at UT Austin they'd throw you out for making assertions with no evidence to back your conclusions.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OH by the way, everything you make reference to are you accusing all the individuals that showed up to the press conference, including Nancy Vera, Joe Cisneros, etc., all in same category as attempting to replace the Anglo political system? If Priscilla Leal is a strong supporter of this Crosstown Commons project wouldn't that make her part of that class of MExican Americans attempting to the replace the "Anglo" political system?

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not surprising but discussion gets off the real issues and ignores that not a person at that press conference has or could evaluate the information on which they are relying. They are all just supportive of this based on the information provided by the developer combined with their wanting it to be true. If this project were being proposed on the Island or on Saratoga, I have a feeling they would be opposing that and advocating the other location.

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

InTheKnow, I'm pretty sure the General Contractor will be EMJ Corporation and not Fulton Construction. EMJ is a company that is related to CBL. Perhaps Fulton will do some work, and if so good for them, but I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation unless they provide some other construction services on the project which I doubt. So I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation. There's also a lot of subcontractors out there that would have a tremendous opportunity to do work including electricians, HVAC, plumbing, concrete suppliers, etc. This project is estimated to be a two year project, so there's a lot of construction work to be accomplished.

And I personally know Rene Saenz, and he is a good man, not a political opportunist. He is very involved in politics, and most of the time (99.9%) I disagree with him on issues - but I know he has a good heart and cares about Corpus Christi. He and I just have different ways about caring for the community. I'm actually glad he and I finally agree on a development idea.

Posted by nvera43 on June 10, 2007 at 12:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Truthincc, How can you make such blanket statements? I have extensive educational and personal experience in analysis, statistics, business and scholarly writings. People at the press conference included business people, educators, attorneys and doctors. Your statements ring hollow when they are based on assumption and personal prejudices.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Representatives from LULAC, the American GI Forum, the NAACP, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce say the complex would bring jobs and spending to the west side, improving the neighborhood, and the outlook for neighborhood youth. They also say the site would keep dollars in the area, as opposed to shoppers doing their spending in other Texas cities."

JK: Really, I have not had an interest in this project until it has become apparent there is an issue of fairness involved. Should this center be built there is no assurance that the development will blossom. Then it can be sold or leased by institutions like Del Mar College (Albertsons) and like the Lantana shopping mall has been utilized and others not on the tip of my tongue right now. Nevertheless, the structure will be utilized and the infrastructure usage will be taxed; so yes, IMO the city should take responsibility for the infrastructure cost like all of the other projects and pet projects in the past.

"But, the developer has stated that work could not begin until the city agrees to reimburse any costs for enhancing the site's infrastructure. Water lines and road would would need to be done before construction could begin, and the community groups now speaking out - want to make sure the city commits to picking up the bill."

JK: I dont know who the Developer is at this point but he or she should be supported in this endeavor. The land is not being given away (if I am not mistaken). The only other issue is that this development include the local minority contractors (at least 40%).

Joe Ortiz, with the American GI Forum and LULAC, says, "You have a lot of other projects that have been done this way and the city is not committing to that. In other words, mister developer, you're on your own."

Who is Mister Developer?

Why would the city not support this growth?

The response I received from my network goes something like this:

"The development probably wont make it but let em build it, it is their money."

"The elite dont want to lose the hispanic westside $$$$$$$$$ while the Mall is booming. They want the west side to shop on the Southside."

"There shouldn't be any differentiation between the west and the south side. We are all in this South Padre Island Drive corridor," LULAC Council #4444 President Nancy Vera said Friday. "There's plenty of money to go around."

JK: To me, this area is still part of the southside.

This money is not the same money where we can shift it to funding the certification of our ballistics lab but we need to focus on that area as well.

Posted by abc123 on June 9, 2007 at 7:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

There are many empty storefronts available for businesses on SPID and at the malls. I object to tax incentives for businesses to build new places instead of using what is available. The city will have to get the tax monies somewhere, and guess who will pay? If the new businesses cannot or will not compete with what is already in place they should not be subsidized by me and my tax money.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 7:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Turning this into a westside-southside issue just indicates the person does not have a clue as to the real issues but that is becoming normal here.

Posted by Houston_Rider on June 9, 2007 at 7:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wouldn't put a mall in that area. Everything North of Saratoga is over 25 years old. 75% of housing in CC is more than 30 years old. There are too many abandon buildings in this city. Even Southside strip malls are losing tenants.

Why would someone want to invest in an area that cant support itself? Attracting mainstream anchor stores and national chains is going to take more than location, its going to take people spending $$. For some reason LULAC thinks its being developed to give people jobs. No money is being spent here, we can't support the mall and shops we have now.

Posted by jimd on June 9, 2007 at 8:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This says it all! -- "Nancy Vera, president of League of United Latin American Citizens No. 4444 and members from LULAC No. 1, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce"

Now there's a fine group of business men and women! hah! And those groups are always looking for a handout. They will fight tooth and nail to keep seasoned developers from getting a tax incentive.

Posted by nl.lozano on June 9, 2007 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am currently in an office space at Sunrise Mall, where retail stores are becoming a thing of the past. Crosstown Commons will actively pursue anchor stores like Dillards and Sears. You should know that small retailers usually have a clause in their lease that allows them to break a lease if the anchor stores are closed. Another half empty mall is not what we need. If Crosstown Commons is so interested in our community, why don't they buy Sunrise Mall? Answer....because then they cannot use tax incentives for "improvements". Large anchor stores like Nordstroms and Bloomingdales will not come to Corpus Christi because our shopping population is not up to their standards. Let's open our eyes people, Crosstown Commons is in it for themselves. I support development in our city, but wrong is wrong, expecially when there are other existing options. By the way, I am Latino, and "we" don't always support LULAC!! haha

Posted by browntide on June 9, 2007 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This is not a Southside/Westside issue. Any reference to that is ridiculous! It is a Corpus Christi Issue!!

The Crosstown Commons wants to use future money they would otherwise have to pay to the City to give incentives to Pull, Rob, Steal and otherwise intice existing retailers in Corpus over to their project.....Just 4 miles away from where they already exist. More empty spaces and blight will result in those existing developments. They call this TIF/380 financing- but this is not what TIFs were intended to be used for.

Using a TIF to relocate existing retail businesses to one development at the expense of other developments is a BAD IDEA. Especially when the existing developments pay 100% of their share of sales taxes and property taxes. No Free Ride.

Has Crosstown promised Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms? NO! Why not? Because We Don't Have the high paying jobs that would support that kind of retail. They're taking Dillards, Macy's and Penny's and moving them up the street. Along with attempting to relocate many others.

Kansas City gave out TIFs and is $250 mil in the hole on broken promises by developers like Crosstown Commons!

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I've been looking at all sides of the issue - very open-mindedly I should add. I would support the granting of tax incentives to attract investment in Corpus Christi. This development is not supposed to be your local mall, and the point of this mall is to create something on a regional scale - not to compete with Padre Staples or Sunrise, but rather to compete with Shops at La Canterra in San Antonio. We need to start looking less local, and more regional and more global. Of course it will attract local shoppers, and that certainly is part of their market - but they're really interested in bringing outsiders into Corpus Christi for shopping. I personally don't see anything wrong with this.

Now, in terms of the abandoned and empty buildings throughout Corpus Christi, we all know this is a natural cycle. Look at any advanced economy or economically developed city, and there will be flight and empty buildings that come with it. Businesses want to be where the next big thing is, especially the retail business which is clearly about trends. Eventually, something will happen to redevelop the empty buildings such as the proposed improvements to the Lichenstein Building, or Wal Mart buying Parkdale Plaza with plans to redevelop.

I think this development will be a good stimulus not just for the Westside of town, but the entire region - ONLY if Crosstown Commons markets it correctly as a regional mall which they say they intend to do. We know that developers aren't always forthright, but then again neither are opponents of development either. My contention is that if the Crosstown Commons intends to make this mall something regional to market throughout South Texas, then I would support it. If not, then there's no point in building this mall or providing tax incentives through a TIF.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 12:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I take offense to the statement that individuals living in housing south of Saratoga can not sustain themselves financially. I live in this area and our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place. If you create perimeters around the land where crosstown commons will be located with a radius of about 2 miles you will find housing ranging anywhere from a low of $20000 to a high of $200000-350000. Ask johnny carinos, fuddruckers, or other businesses if they are profiting and I can assure you they are doing just fine. The real problem is that competition is not valued. The Padre Staples mall has so many empty stores because they charge to much rental space. I'm sure that will be going down when we introduce Crosstown Commons. Wake up people! Do you want to continue living the lifestyle of the Geico Neanderthal or are you ready to move into the 21st Century? Lifestyles attract people to live in communities and we must adapt to that change.

Posted by dcardona on June 9, 2007 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

How can any one say it's not a West and South issue? If this was being built on the Southside how many of you would remember the issues of our already depleted malls. Westside is becoming run down only because all money is spend on new development on the Southside. How many new shopping centers, gyms, restaurants have opened or will be opened along Staples/Saratoga area? Repaved or adding new and better streets are on the Southside. So...How many of you complained of abandon buildings or traffic conjestions when these were being built in Southside? I can bet none.
It's about time Westside will have something to better this part of Corpus Christi. Maybe now Corpus Christi will include us in repaved, better streets, tax revenue to better our area, and more jobs.
No matter where you live in we all live in Corpus Christi. Westside, Southside, Northside, Eastside...or wherever we are all one City.
By the way...you ever wonder why our malls are lacking traffic, why we have abandon building/shopping centers...where do you all shop? San Antonio, Dallas, San Marcos Outlets..maybe it's time we quit spending our monies in other Cities and take care of ours. This new development just might be what Corpus Christ needs to get new developers in our area, thus making us a Better City. And just maybe, all you out of town shoppers just might considered to shop here if we had the same stores just as SA or the Outlets.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Crosstown Commons is a great idea for our entire city. If this community is a ghost town, it is because we continue to succumb to antiquated attitudes and ideas. The tone of some of the letters above reeks with pessimism and bitterness. I have paid taxes in Corpus Christi all of my life - in fact - my family has paid taxes in this city for over a century. It is my belief that this development will bring positive growth for the entire city. I, too, sometimes disagree with the stance that some civic and civil rights organizations take, but that doesn't mean I am always right. The position taken on this development by LULAC, the NAACP, the American GI Forum and the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is based on extensive quality research and what they believe is in the best interest of ALL the citizens in Corpus Christi - not just for a select few. The opportunities for small business growth will multiply, job opportunities will multiply, and the standard of living for our citizens will increase. If we stick with old ideas, we will be stuck in the economic dark ages for another century. I say out with the old and in with the new. Let's raise our standards rather than sticking with what we believe is safe. Be not afraid. We are jeopardizing our future if we stick to old-fashioned ideas. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for our community. The TIF will be paid for by future property tax on the property on which Crosstown Commons will be developed. Additionally, the sales tax that is generated by this project will be significant. We can use this money for education and for city improvements. We need the roads and we need the development. What we don't need are people who continually stunt the growth of our community because of their brash and loud negativity or because they want to monopolize the economic market in our city to get richer. Do your research, please. It's time for all of us to share in the piece of the pie.

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 12:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Additionally, the city has spent tax dollars improving the streets around the Sunrise Mall and the Padre Staples Mall. These establishments have had an opportunity to enhance their buildings and business for years. Even the idea of a little competition has spurred renovations at Padre Staples Mall. It seems to me that competition will be a valuable win for the consumer in this city. This is a good thing. :)

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Looks, like Rene Saenz still has political aspirations. Using this as a photo opportunity and a chance to be seen as a voice for the Westside. A champion for the Westside because he lives on the Westside. Gimme a break, your domicile is an excuse for you to seek a political office.

Were do you teach government at Mr. Saenz? At Carroll High School, on the Central Southside area of the city! Why are you not truly standing up for the Westside by teaching at Miller High School or any of the middle schools located on the Westside? A typical political opportunist, who will be running in the next local election as a champion of the Westside. The hypocrisy.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Miller HS did not give me the job although I went to apply several times. I was a soccer coach at miller HS last year. I can't force the principal to give me a job even if I apply for it. Carroll HS saw me as an asset and offered me the job. I am proud to work at Carroll HS. I grew up in the westside and my family still live iin the westside. I guess some people are still taking it hard that I did not endorse their preferred candidate, the one with the least qualifications. I guess mikeisalone is worried that I might be running against their preferred candidate in two years. At least I don't hide behind a hinden name because my name is exposed. You should consider exposing your name unless you were like your preferred candidate who did not expose herself to the public.

Posted by drtcpip on June 9, 2007 at 3:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Viva La Raza! Tax breaks for the Wal-Marts, man! Power to da people, man! Viva Wal-Mart. Tax breaks for da people man! Eh gringo, subsidize my Wal-Mart man.

Posted by mikeisalone on June 9, 2007 at 4:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

In an interview with the Caller Times, CCISD Superintendent Scott Elliff stated, "administrators met with the applicants over a week-long period, assessing them in areas of content knowledge, instructional strategies and commitment to Miller and its students."(Garza n.p.) Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times.

Elliff also stated that the "idea of reconstitution of staff is to be able to select a team with a common vision, and a passion for educating students in a challenging environment.” (Garza) So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?!

In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”

Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too. Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it. I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing.

My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying
Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I am not attacking you personally, what I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities.

Works Cited

“Rene Saenz to run for City Council District 3”. Caller Times 4 Jan. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.A.P. Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/jan/04/r...

Garza, Adrian. “Changes at Miller pull heartstrings”. Caller Times 20 May. 2007: Scripps Texas Newspapers, L.P.A.Scripps Howard Newspapers. 9 June. 2007 http://www.caller.com/news/2007/may/20/c....

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

drtcpip - Your statements reflect intolerance and mendacity.

Mr. Wilson, Thank you for studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas. I would like meet with you to discuss your perspective. My e-mail address is nvera43@aol.com. Priscilla Leal is the lead supporter of the Crosstown Commons. She's doing a fantastic job.

Posted by jpercer on June 9, 2007 at 5:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why on earth would anyone want to bring a Neiman Marcus to Corpus Christi? I'd challenge everyone here to go into a Neiman Marcus (There's one in San Antonio, On La Cantera), go to the mens section, and look at the price tags for the same T-Shirt you can get at wal mart, for about 80 dollars more. This isn't the kind of development we need for Corpus Christi. I appreciate the initiative, but please keep the development realistic with our population.

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nvera you have to be kidding yourself if you think that extensive research was done by those organizations. They bought the line by the developer and besides that it was a line they wanted to believe even if it was not true.

Posted by intheknow on June 9, 2007 at 6:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Folks, look deeper into who has $ intrest in the development. Who will build it, who will fin it, who will rent it, ect. Its the same old establishment. Lets make sure that fin disclousers are filed. Let a little sun in and see what happens. How much you want to bet joe fulton gets the contract to build it! The song remains the same. The same people who back the caller times. Old corpus money. The song remains the same.

Posted by amadeus3678 on June 9, 2007 at 6:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

why on earth would Dillards or Macy or any other high class store want to build right behind Tinseltown, where just a couple of years ago little hoods killed people at night coming out of the theatre.

If you don't think that's gang territory over there, I suggest you take a drive down Greenwood and Gollihar, oh yeah, West Point is close by too. And Prescott. And tell me if you saw ONE single house or wood fence that didn't have gang graffiti on it. I dare you.

And you really think that Dillards and Macy's want to have a store close to THAT neighbourhood?

Posted by nvera43 on June 9, 2007 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

On the contrary, inthe know, it is old money that wants to keep the status quo. Will you please do your research?

amadeaus 3678, there have been stabbings, murders and graffiti all over this town. Maybe we should have closed the malls when there was a stabbing? You are stereotyping. We must stop confusing this economic issue with name calling and stereotyping. I live in this neighborhood and I am sorry that you think all of us are thugs. Oh, and my house has never been vandalized or had gang graffiti painted on it. It's time for economic growth!

Posted by stff on June 9, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Count this white boy from Calallen in favor of this project.

It sounds like to me the old boy network here in Corpus has done an excellent job brainwashing a certain segment of the population that tax breaks for economic development is bad. Alot of the old boy network as I can tell are the local developers and without naming names, they have done their part in derailing certain projects that have been proposed around this city (think bayfront).

You want evidence of the old boy network look no further than the current and soon the be former owners of Padre Staples Mall. They have done ZERO to improve their mall because they were content on what they had because they have managed to keep out the competetion. Finally some developers and proven people in the mall business called their bluff and announced this project at the Crosstown. And what do they do? The very next day they annnounce all of these renovations and now in the last week they annoucned they will be selling a majority stake to a big mall holding company. if I were Macys of Dillards and some one wanted to build something cutting edge and new, I'd jump in heartbeat since the soon to be prior management dragged their feet with improvments. Heck those merchants and others know tthat good money is leaving this town that should be staying here.

As a former Valley resident that keeps up with the news and happening down there, I can contest the progressive valley cities down there have used tax incentives that make the one asked by CBL look like peanuts for all sorts of development. Mercedes is the home of a new outlets mall and part of the deal was the company that built that mall would get a sizeable % of tax receipts that would decrease by the year. And what has happened ? The net revenues to the city after the company gets their share have increased. And those revenues are being used to pay for city services that otherwise would have to come from the property tax base. What a novel concept that maybe the folks that complain about high property taxes around here should think twice before shutting the door on a business or industry that might be able to help offset those increase or even lower the burden of property taxpayers.

Another thing the againers are going to have to get over and realize real quick is if you all that cry about our kids leaving because their are no jobs if you want the big, high tech type business to even give Corpus the time of day, we are going to have to offer tax incentives. Please find a large metro area in this state that does not dangle those type of carrots to get big employers to move in. San Antonio has done with Toyota and Mircrosoft. Why does Corpus have to be different? And yes they do pay attention to how we deal with prior opportunites , no matter how small or big they might be.

Maybe it's going to take the younger generation (under 40) to get this done? Sooner or later we will reverse this attitude in this town.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Those that met that criterion were hired. I guess you did not have what it takes to teach and empathize with your people from the Westside. You did try several times."
Twice to be exact. The first time I was offered but I had already accepted another job. The second time non-hispanics interviewed me and I later found out that the one who got the job was a personal friend of one who conducted the interview. Can't compete with politics and getting a job. Sometimes a persons credentials doesn't matter. You've heard the saying "It's not what you know, it's who you know." Maybe it is that kind of decision making that has placed Miller HS, the school that I went to, in the condition that it is in.

"So your credentials of growing up in the Westside and politics did not help you?"
When reconstitution went in to effect, I didn't bother to apply. I'm working with the best principal in CCISD. BEsides don't want to be in a working environment where tensions ran high between administration and teachers. The politics of employment does play a factor. Also, wouldn't be able to transfer for two years even if I wanted to.

"In reference to being hired at Carroll maybe you fit in better with those of your own socioeconomic status. You did state earlier that, "our family household income last year was a little over $96000 and I reside around the proximity where the development is taking place." Well, thanks for your paternalistic concern about us working class, but we do not need that type of mentality attempting to represent us. I guess you are trying to fill the Noyola vacuum? Those are not very big shoes to fill; all you have to do is cry that you are looking out for the “working people.”"

Or maybe I am just a damn good teacher. You seem you prejudge me as if somehow you know everything about me. Yes I live in the area around Carroll and my socioeconomic status has increased. But that comes from hard work and discipline. See I came from the westside and grew up in a three room house on Mohawk St, you know in la quarenta, went to Lozano, Oak Park, Driscoll, and Miller. Went to UT-Austin and graduated with a BA in government with a minor in history. I could have chosen not to come back to CC but I did and have been active in politics before I went to UT and after. My participation in the Crosstown Commons Press Conference came to me by e-mail urging some of us to attend. I did so and when I got there I was asked to speak so I did. I do not know what type of mentality you refer to since you do not know me personally. I guess your classes in Mexican AMerican History and Politics has clouded your mind with false images. As far as trying to fill Noyola's shoes he is his own person and I am my own. My ideals are set in stone built from many years of community involvement and activism.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Priscilla Leal was elected because she was not tied to the politicos who own Noyola and that you are seeking to appeal too."
Can you prove that? Nope! that's what I thought. You seem to think you know plenty but unfortunately you don't know anything. I'll be praying for you tonight that the lord help you find some common sense.

"Again, this was nothing more than a photo opportunity and I called you out on it."
Again I was asked to attend this event and then asked to speak. At the beginning I was out of the sight of the camara's but when asked to come into the crowd I did. When asked to speak I did based on my strong feelings about the issue at hand. The issue is good for the area, region, but most importantly the westside. Seems to me you don't think this crosstown commons is no good for Corpus Christi. You also seem bothered by me being in the photo. Well I'm sure as a Leal supporter I would be bothered to and be making statements of a conspiracy. Well tough! I already gave my reason for being on tv and the paper.

"I will give you the benefit of doubt that economic development is essential as you stated in your political sheet in the Caller Times though on January 4, 2007. (Caller Times n.p.) But, it is not everything and we sure do not need any middle class yuppie paternalism representing us in District 3. Hubris is a dangerous thing."

For a student at TAMUCC you sure don't know very much, especially when it comes to journalism. The Jan. 4, 2007 sheet that they wrote did not include about 90% of what I said. The writer chooses what they write a place in the paper and everything else gets left out. I am not a one issue person and if you'd like, you can give me your address and I will send you my material that I used when I went blockwalking. I agree what was written was not everything and I ran on many issues which is stated in my literature. In fact the TIF I was also advocating included the neighborhoods around certain areas in the district to be utilized for only neighborhood development of infrustructure. That was not mentioned in the article. In fact, I'm the only candidate that took that position. You see there is much you need to learn about the Mexican AMerican and politics and you don't get it from an article on a paper.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

'My name is Mike Wilson and I am a college student at TAMUCC studying Mexican-American leadership and politics in South Texas."
So who is your instructor and what is your major? What is the argument in your thesis? Would like to see your work if it even exists. I also am doing work on Mexican American History and Politics and it's titled " From Bullets to Ballots: The Origins and Evolution of Mexican American Civil Rights in Texas, 1836-1920."
You see you are studying things I studied as an undergraduate taking Chicano Studies courses at UT so what you say is nothing new to me. My study deals with the more radical years of insurrections and revolts with players such as Vicente Cardova (1838), Juan Cortina (1858), Catarino Garza (1890), and the Plan de San Diego years (1915-1918). You are looking at Mexican American Politics from a narrow glass. You still need much to learn about the culture, history, and politics considering your outside status.

"I am not attacking you personally"
Yes you are and you demonstrated that above. But I have been attacked and accused of many things that is not true but I laugh it off. And I'm sure that in your study of Mexican American Politics you will encounter (Anglo) people like yourself who make false accusations against a Mexican AMerican who only seek the best for their community regardless of their ethnicity.

"I see is a photo opportunity and South Texas paternalism by the Mexican-American middle class. Basically, you and others like you have only replaced the Anglo political system in your communities."

Accusations that cannot be proven. You make all these assertions without evidence to back your conclusion. Your work cited is weak and at UT Austin they'd throw you out for making assertions with no evidence to back your conclusions.

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 9, 2007 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

OH by the way, everything you make reference to are you accusing all the individuals that showed up to the press conference, including Nancy Vera, Joe Cisneros, etc., all in same category as attempting to replace the Anglo political system? If Priscilla Leal is a strong supporter of this Crosstown Commons project wouldn't that make her part of that class of MExican Americans attempting to the replace the "Anglo" political system?

Posted by truthincc on June 9, 2007 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Not surprising but discussion gets off the real issues and ignores that not a person at that press conference has or could evaluate the information on which they are relying. They are all just supportive of this based on the information provided by the developer combined with their wanting it to be true. If this project were being proposed on the Island or on Saratoga, I have a feeling they would be opposing that and advocating the other location.

Posted by curtis on June 9, 2007 at 11:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)

InTheKnow, I'm pretty sure the General Contractor will be EMJ Corporation and not Fulton Construction. EMJ is a company that is related to CBL. Perhaps Fulton will do some work, and if so good for them, but I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation unless they provide some other construction services on the project which I doubt. So I'm pretty sure Fulton is out of the equation. There's also a lot of subcontractors out there that would have a tremendous opportunity to do work including electricians, HVAC, plumbing, concrete suppliers, etc. This project is estimated to be a two year project, so there's a lot of construction work to be accomplished.

And I personally know Rene Saenz, and he is a good man, not a political opportunist. He is very involved in politics, and most of the time (99.9%) I disagree with him on issues - but I know he has a good heart and cares about Corpus Christi. He and I just have different ways about caring for the community. I'm actually glad he and I finally agree on a development idea.

Posted by nvera43 on June 10, 2007 at 12:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Truthincc, How can you make such blanket statements? I have extensive educational and personal experience in analysis, statistics, business and scholarly writings. People at the press conference included business people, educators, attorneys and doctors. Your statements ring hollow when they are based on assumption and personal prejudices.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Representatives from LULAC, the American GI Forum, the NAACP, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce say the complex would bring jobs and spending to the west side, improving the neighborhood, and the outlook for neighborhood youth. They also say the site would keep dollars in the area, as opposed to shoppers doing their spending in other Texas cities."

JK: Really, I have not had an interest in this project until it has become apparent there is an issue of fairness involved. Should this center be built there is no assurance that the development will blossom. Then it can be sold or leased by institutions like Del Mar College (Albertsons) and like the Lantana shopping mall has been utilized and others not on the tip of my tongue right now. Nevertheless, the structure will be utilized and the infrastructure usage will be taxed; so yes, IMO the city should take responsibility for the infrastructure cost like all of the other projects and pet projects in the past.

"But, the developer has stated that work could not begin until the city agrees to reimburse any costs for enhancing the site's infrastructure. Water lines and road would would need to be done before construction could begin, and the community groups now speaking out - want to make sure the city commits to picking up the bill."

JK: I dont know who the Developer is at this point but he or she should be supported in this endeavor. The land is not being given away (if I am not mistaken). The only other issue is that this development include the local minority contractors (at least 40%).

Joe Ortiz, with the American GI Forum and LULAC, says, "You have a lot of other projects that have been done this way and the city is not committing to that. In other words, mister developer, you're on your own."

Who is Mister Developer?

Why would the city not support this growth?

The response I received from my network goes something like this:

"The development probably wont make it but let em build it, it is their money."

"The elite dont want to lose the hispanic westside $$$$$$$$$ while the Mall is booming. They want the west side to shop on the Southside."

"There shouldn't be any differentiation between the west and the south side. We are all in this South Padre Island Drive corridor," LULAC Council #4444 President Nancy Vera said Friday. "There's plenty of money to go around."

JK: To me, this area is still part of the southside.

This money is not the same money where we can shift it to funding the certification of our ballistics lab but we need to focus on that area as well.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 12:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Representatives from LULAC, the American GI Forum, the NAACP, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce say the complex would bring jobs and spending to the west side, improving the neighborhood, and the outlook for neighborhood youth. They also say the site would keep dollars in the area, as opposed to shoppers doing their spending in other Texas cities."

JK: Really, I have not had an interest in this project until it has become apparent there is an issue of fairness involved. Should this center be built there is no assurance that the development will blossom. Then it can be sold or leased by institutions like Del Mar College (Albertsons) and like the Lantana shopping mall has been utilized and others not on the tip of my tongue right now. Nevertheless, the structure will be utilized and the infrastructure usage will be taxed; so yes, IMO the city should take responsibility for the infrastructure cost like all of the other projects and pet projects in the past.

"But, the developer has stated that work could not begin until the city agrees to reimburse any costs for enhancing the site's infrastructure. Water lines and road would would need to be done before construction could begin, and the community groups now speaking out - want to make sure the city commits to picking up the bill."

JK: I dont know who the Developer is at this point but he or she should be supported in this endeavor. The land is not being given away (if I am not mistaken). The only other issue is that this development include the local minority contractors (at least 40%).

Joe Ortiz, with the American GI Forum and LULAC, says, "You have a lot of other projects that have been done this way and the city is not committing to that. In other words, mister developer, you're on your own."

Who is Mister Developer?

Why would the city not support this growth?

The response I received from my network goes something like this:

"The development probably wont make it but let em build it, it is their money."

"The elite dont want to lose the hispanic westside $$$$$$$$$ while the Mall is booming. They want the west side to shop on the Southside."

"There shouldn't be any differentiation between the west and the south side. We are all in this South Padre Island Drive corridor," LULAC Council #4444 President Nancy Vera said Friday. "There's plenty of money to go around."

JK: To me, this area is still part of the southside.

This money is not the same money where we can shift it to funding the certification of our ballistics lab but we need to focus on that area as well.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 12:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

http://corpuschristidaily.blogspot.com/2...

Posted by renesaenz27 on June 10, 2007 at 12:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

IF Crosstown Commons was going to be developed anywhere in CC I would be behind 100% and actively supporting it. Just recently I heard that CC could possibly be going into a public-private venture in developing a water park. Hell I would support that to keep our young people occupied. I support the development of Wal-Mart on Staples and Timbergate but I opposed Shuting the beach to vehicles and creating a joke of our bayfront with a ferriswheel. Crosstown Commons will be good for CC and you can bet I'll be at Moody on Monday attempting to influence the residents this project will be good for the area and the region.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 1:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I support Rene Saenz as he is truly acting from his heart and his roots. I know Rene and his wife, they are an asset to our community. Also, I am not a spell checker but when one attacks an educator and make statements as to the modification of his JOB opportunities; when you ask him WHERE he works and already know the answer, learn the difference between where and were. There is no reason for this venture to be treated unlike the pet projects and other developments that receive and benefit from the buddy system. It is good for the city to develop this area, We already engineered the freeway system to readily access this area, there is a booming car dealership, a walmart, a McDonalds and with respect to our neighboring communities to the south and west, the freeway interchange is becoming a hub.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 1:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The City Council works for US.

WAKE UP AND GET TO WORK BOYS AND GIRLS.

Equality and Fairness await you.

Posted by kingalonzoalvarezdepineda13 on June 10, 2007 at 1:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Who is the Developer?

Who is benefiting from the project?

Who owns the land?

Since the research has already been completed let us see the data.

Is it the same ole Yanquis profiting or will there be fresh and deserving players?

Absolutely the construction if adhered to the guidelines and local and minority small businesses are fully utilized the positives far outweigh any negatives.

"Build it and they will come".