Officials back Sunshine's project

An award from AAA notes the city had no pedestrian deaths in 2000.
WARREN -- Council voted 9-1 on a resolution to support Sunshine of Warren-Trumbull Area Inc. in its efforts to bring new and rehabilitated homes to the low-income sections of city's 2nd and 4th wards.
Alford Novak, D-2nd, said the project would allow Sunshine to seek outside investors to help fund the project and receive a tax credit in return.
Doc Pugh, D-6th, opposed the resolution, saying the city doesn't need more rental properties but there's a need for more programs for first-time home buyers. Of the city's housing stock, Pugh said, 40 percent is made up of rentals run by absentee landlords.
Tony Iannucci, representing Sunshine, said the city is working toward providing more owner-occupied homes.
The city will be competing for the tax credit money, Iannucci said, and after 15 years, the homes would be available for purchase, with Sunshine as the landlord.
Mayor Hank Angelo said the city's investment of $75,000 to $100,000 will generate $2.8 million in tax credits for the project.
Received award: The city has been given an award from AAA because there were no pedestrian fatalities in 2000. The mayor also said Warren was mentioned in a national publication for mayors, along with Elizabeth, N.J., for participating in Partner America, a program to enhance business districts.
Michael Keys, director of Warren Redevelopment and Planning, said council will vote later in the month on a resolution to approve a tax abatement for Concord Steel. The company filed for bankruptcy but Keys said a buyer has been found.
It's in operation, and plans are to expand and possibly add 50 jobs.