Muscatine County Council approves tax abatement for 615 Mulberry Avenue redevelopment

During the Muscatine County Board Meeting on July 14, 2025, significant discussions centered around the abatement of taxes for a property at 615 Mulberry Avenue, currently under redevelopment by the Muscatine Center for Social Action (MCSA). Katie Kelly, filling in for MCSA Executive Director Emily Harvey, presented the request for tax abatement, highlighting the ongoing construction aimed at transforming the property into a single-family home. The board members expressed support for the initiative, noting the property had been an eyesore for years. The motion to approve the tax abatement passed unanimously, reflecting a community-focused approach to revitalization.

In addition to the tax abatement discussion, the board addressed plans for a public hearing scheduled for July 28, 2025. This hearing will focus on proposed plans for a downtown parking lot and sidewalk project, specifically targeting the jail parking lot and sidewalks on East Fourth and Walnut Streets. County Development Director Eric Furnace confirmed that preliminary plans are in place, although the project scope is limited due to budget constraints and potential future renovations of the existing building.

The meeting also touched on minor issues, including some water accumulation in county buildings due to recent heavy rains, but no significant damage was reported. Overall, the discussions underscored the county's commitment to community development and infrastructure improvements, with the board taking proactive steps to engage the public in upcoming projects.