BY LEON B. CREWS

Sentinel Staff Writer

In the first of a series of meetings, the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce presented their plan for the redevelopment of West Tampa to a packed room at the West Tampa Library Thursday night.

Attending the meeting were representatives from the Tampa City Council, Tampa Housing Authority, Tampa Housing Authority Board, neighborhood association leaders, representatives from the West Tampa CDC, West Tampa Community Group, Hillsborough County NAACP, and the Mayor’s office.

Chairing the meeting was Ed Turanchik, who represents the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce. He attempted to put those in attendance at ease by saying what they are proposing is a plan they feel best fits the dynamics of West Tampa, and would be in the best interest of the residents.

“The reason we’re all here is to listen and see where it is we all need to be to make this happen,” said Turnachik.

“We don’t expect everyone to agree with every aspect of our plan, and we welcome suggestions and input on what the community thinks has been left out or that needs to be changed.”

Representing the West Tampa CDC, Joe Robinson said in his opinion, “everyone in attendance needs to relax and just allow the meeting to accomplish its goal.”

“The purpose of this meeting is for everyone to vent, and we will all leave here with the understanding that at this point, nothing is going to happen.

“We need to keep the dialogue going, and it’s crucial we all put on the table our primary concerns and where we need to go. The point is, we need to move forward and continue the process.”

Ms. Mary Alice Dorsett and Hillsborough County NAACP President, Dr. Carolyn Collins, both expressed concerns about inclusion and efforts to change the dynamics of the area.

“When North Boulevard Homes is gone, and all of those people are displaced, the voting dynamics of that area will change dramatically,” said Dr. Collins.

“We understand the public housing residents will be given a chance to return, but what if they can’t afford to return? What if the market has priced them out of returning? That’s what we’re concerned about.”

Ms. Dorsett said she’s concerned, because the Chamber’s plan makes no mention of African Americans.

“It’s like we don’t exist or live in these neighborhoods,” said Ms. Dorsett.

“We do have a voice, and we are here. We are aware of changes going on around us, but we’re tired of those changes always impacting us and not other communities. We want assurances that we will still be able to live in this community.”

Others spoke about the history of the West Tampa community, and some questioned the need to raze the North Boulevard Homes buildings instead of upgrading them.

“I’ve heard stories about lead paint, and I don’t believe that’s a problem,” said Dwight Bolden.

“I’m also aware that some buildings are already air conditioned, so I know it wouldn’t be that big of a problem to put central air in all the units. Those buildings are the best constructed in the nation, and it would be wrong to just tear them down.”

Councilman Frank Reddick addressed the crowd by telling everyone to understand that change is coming.

“Things are going to change in this community, and the N.B. Homes buildings will be coming down. What we need to concentrate on is how that will impact the community, and what we can do to make sure the African American people of West Tampa are still represented when it comes to voting and services.”