No one from the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority attended Thursday's Common Council hearing on the future of the NFTA's waterfront property.
The city is trying to regain control of the valuable real estate that it once owned. The NFTA has asked for proposals from those interested in buying Gallagher Beach, the Small Boat Harbor and the old port terminal complex.
South District Council member Michael Kearns says the city has a fundamental responsibility to participate in these discussions.
"For the city to not to be part of the discussions and not to have a seat at table. I think would be a major mistake if you want to taxpayers and I think it needs to be corrected quickly because I think from what we're hearing from the public is been a while me anymore," said Kearns.
Some lawmakers are concerned that private ownership of the land connotes restricted public access. Several options are being explored at this point, including a land-transfer, a city purchase, or the possible declaration of eminent domain.
Despite the Council's interest in the land, the city is far from developing specific plans for the property. In fact, the NFTA estimates that a $50-million investment is needed simply to pay for needed capital improvements.
NFTA Executive Director Kimberly Minkel said the meeting was premature, and that she needs to meet first with her own Board of Commissioners to review proposals.