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Resident opposes $8 million tax break request for Onyx Partners, cites fairness and timing
Summary
Jerry Martin told the Springfield City Council he opposes an $8,000,000 tax-incentive request for Onyx Partners, arguing the relief is untimely, unfair to taxpayers and could worsen property tax increases for seniors and fixed-income residents.
Jerry Martin, a resident of East Forest Park, told the Springfield City Council during public comment that he opposes Onyx Partners’ request for an $8,000,000 tax break.
Martin said the request is particularly ill-timed because “the taxpayers of this city are yet again facing a significant increase to their property taxes” and that “the average household owner this year is expected to pay and it nearly an additional $200 more in property taxes.” He said the tax break “sends an unfair message to the residents of this city.”
Martin identified himself by name and address and said he supports economic development but questioned the timing and process for the request, saying such requests “typically and should take place at the beginning of this proposal, not as it nears its completion and not after the financing and lease agreements have already been agreed to and determined.” The transcript excerpt shows his remarks were delivered during the meeting’s public-comment period; no council votes or staff responses on the Onyx request are recorded in the excerpt.
Martin also raised equity concerns, arguing the proposed abatement could be used instead “for police, fire, and even lowering our property taxes increases,” and urged the council to “be fair and consistent.” The transcript excerpt did not include any formal council action or a staff presentation tied to the Onyx request in the public-comment segment.
