Riverfront Triangle redevelopment and TIF funding draw mixed reactions from forum candidates

Candidates at the forum weighed in on the Riverfront Triangle redevelopment project and the planned use of public financing tools, including tax-increment financing (TIF). Several candidates said the underused riverfront site needs investment, while others urged stronger guarantees of public benefit and affordable housing in exchange for taxpayer support.

Why it matters: The Riverfront Triangle sits on prime downtown riverfront property. The city’s approach to financing and public benefit will shape how the site is used, how much public money is committed and whether affordable housing or public spaces are included in redevelopment.

Candidates described the site as underutilized blight that could be an asset if redeveloped. One candidate noted the project would redirect a significant amount of TIF money toward redevelopment while returning a portion to the city’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Candidates expressed differing priorities: some welcomed investment and predicted economic returns, while others called for strict deed restrictions or a stronger share of affordable units and public open space.

Several candidates said they want to ensure the city obtains “as much public benefit as we possibly can” from the project rather than subsidizing market-rate uses alone. Other speakers said redevelopment could catalyze further investment along nearby corridors and revitalize a vacant area that limits public access to the river.

Looking ahead: Candidates said they would review project terms, press for deed-restricted affordable units where public funding is used and seek transparency on TIF commitments. Multiple candidates emphasized the need to negotiate public-benefit terms if tax dollars are deployed.