Redevelopment Unit Assailed on Deal
A Los Angeles County Grand Jury’s report, which last week criticized the West Covina Redevelopment Agency as inefficient and disorganized, has recommended that the city reconsider the proposed terms of a $117-million mall expansion, scheduled for approval on Monday.
The grand jury urged the West Covina City Council and Redevelopment Agency to negotiate a better deal for the proposed Fashion Plaza shopping mall expansion. The developers, Sylvan S. Shulman and May Centers Inc., are asking for all of the new property tax revenue and more than 75% of the sales taxes created by the expansion. The project would add a new department store and additional mall space.
City officials argued with the report’s conclusion, saying the grand jury’s recommendation was misguided, based on incorrect conclusions, and that the deal was the best the city could expect. Two private economic consultants have supported the city’s contribution to the project, which city officials say is needed to safeguard the current sales tax base.
The city is preparing a formal response to the grand jury’s report.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
