§ 10-1. Findings.

(a) Importance of Port Covington.

(1) Port Covington is undergoing significant redevelopment that will benefit the City by creating a new clean, green, and safe neighborhood, which will reflect a diverse mix of business and residential properties and a diverse economic, social, and racial mix of residents and workers.

(2) In order to maintain Port Covington as an attractive location of choice by office and retail owners and tenants and by residents, the area must be kept attractive, clean, and safe at all times.

(b) Considerations.

In adopting this Ordinance, the City Council:

(1) considered the views of the property owners, residents, property tenants, community groups and workers in South Baltimore. The Council is particularly sensitive to the input of community groups that have partnered with the development team of Port Covington to facilitate the investment of funds not only in Port Covington, but throughout South Baltimore and the rest of the City.

(2) finds that a community benefits district would be an important and vital element of the long-term health and growth of Port Covington, South Baltimore, the rest of Baltimore City, and the region.

(3) finds that the District will encourage the involvement of minority and women-owned businesses in the operation of the District and in the business community itself.

(4) finds that the District and Port Covington will reflect:

(i) a diverse mix of business and residential properties; and

(ii) a diverse economic, social, and racial mix of residents and workers.

The Mayor and City Council recommends that residents of the District consult a tax advisor before treating the supplemental tax paid to the District as a deductible tax.