A much respected Oak Park leader brings good news to the community regarding his developments, including a new store, and responds to questions about his possible mayoral run.
Johnson takes Oak Park steps
He apologizes publicly for trouble on his properties and announces plans that include a new market.
By Terri Hardy and Phillip Reese - thardy@sacbee.com
Published 12:00 am PST Friday, February 8, 2008
Following community outcry over the run-down state of many of his Oak Park properties, Kevin Johnson, local developer and former NBA star, has begun to fix his dilapidated buildings and kick-start his economic revitalization plans.
At an Oak Park Neighborhood Association meeting Thursday evening, Johnson publicly apologized for the first time about past problems with his properties.
"Anytime I don't live up to the end of a bargain, I want to be held accountable," he said. "We could have done a better job with those properties."
Johnson outlined his future plans for living up to his promise of urban renewal in his old neighborhood, including building a 15,000-square-foot Fresh & Easy market at 34th and Broadway. Development of the large, former sausage factory site is considered crucial to revitalizing Broadway's commercial corridor.
Johnson said a survey of local residents found that a market was among their top priorities.
Fresh & Easy is "going to be a huge asset to our community," he said. He also pledged that a detailed development timeline would be provided at the next neighborhood association meeting.
Last week, Johnson said he was "seriously considering" running against Mayor Heather Fargo. Although pre-printed "Run, Kevin, Run" signs were on display at Thursday's meeting, Johnson did not discuss his political aspirations beyond saying he would reach a decision in a week or two.
