The Shelby County PILOT Ad Hoc Committee convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the management of Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) programs. A significant focus of the meeting was the community engagement efforts surrounding these programs, with committee members emphasizing the importance of public participation and transparency.
During the session, committee members reviewed a flyer intended to promote community awareness and engagement. Miss Jones confirmed that the flyer had been distributed to her network, while Miss Bishop reported sending over 2,000 emails to inform constituents about the upcoming public meeting. Notably, a recent event hosted by MICA attracted over 500 attendees, highlighting community interest in PILOT discussions, despite some skepticism about the organization’s involvement in the committee.
The committee also addressed the need for a draft PowerPoint presentation that would outline key definitions and comparisons of PILOT management practices in other cities. This presentation aims to facilitate a better understanding of the program's implications and foster informed discussions among stakeholders.
As the meeting progressed, members expressed a commitment to refining the presentation and ensuring that all voices are heard in the upcoming community engagement event. The committee's proactive approach underscores its dedication to transparency and accountability in local governance.
Looking ahead, the committee plans to finalize the presentation and continue outreach efforts to ensure robust community participation in discussions about PILOT programs, which are crucial for local economic development. The next meeting is scheduled for October, where further updates and community feedback will be addressed.