In a pivotal meeting on September 18, 2025, the PILOT Ad Hoc Committee of Shelby County, TN, focused on clarifying the roles and responsibilities of various industrial development boards in relation to tax abatements. The discussion highlighted the need for accessible language and clear diagrams to help the public understand the complex structure of these boards and their decision-making powers.

Committee members emphasized the importance of transparency, with Cardio Orena noting that the authority granted to these boards is ongoing unless explicitly revoked. This point was echoed by Natalie McKinney, who suggested that a visual representation of the different types of PILOTs (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) and the entities responsible for them would enhance public comprehension.

The meeting also touched on the historical context of how these boards acquired their abatement powers, with members recalling that the authority was ceded long ago and has not required renewal since its inception. This lack of renewal has led to some confusion among constituents regarding the involvement of the county commission and city council in these decisions.

As the committee continues to refine its approach, the focus remains on ensuring that the community is well-informed about the workings of industrial development boards and the implications of their decisions on local economic development. The next steps will likely involve creating educational materials that simplify these concepts for the public.