A bit from Alderman Joe Hayden

                 As I run for Re-election as Alderman of Ward - 5, I will not only push the crime issue, TIF Reform and and Housing Court; but, seek that we create Belleville Neighborhood Improvement Program (BNIP) to help those in the core of the City get low interest loans to fix up their houses as they remain dedicated to our community and not putting up a "For Sale" sign. We also need to enhance our Belleville Business Assistance Program (BBAP) whereas businesses can get the same type of low interest loans to bring the buildings that are vacant along Main Street (East and West) up to code so they can even rent them or sell to a viable business. 

              Instead of giving TIF to big business, put funds in an escrow account, to serve as a means to help these people secure low interest loans by the City working with the local banks, stimulate our local economy and our banks and have us all working hand in hand together to better our community. These steps along with the streets-capes programs and improving more neighborhood roads is how we invigorate the City, raise property values and keep our assessed valuation high so our property taxes actually go lower. 

           The above actions combined with making the city safer and ending the negative perception of crime will bring our great City to an even more vibrant fruition. I will be working with other Independents that share this position and together with the voters, taxpayers, residents, and business community we WILL make Belleville a place of destination to live and shop.