Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Incentives topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission seeks review role for SAC/WAC waivers on larger downtown projects
Summary
The Brainerd Public Utilities Commission asked that it be given the opportunity to review any proposal to waive SAC (sewer availability charge) and WAC (water availability charge) fees for building projects with valuations above $150,000 in the expanded commercial corridor/central business district incentive area.
The Brainerd Public Utilities Commission asked city leaders to route requests to waive SAC and WAC fees through the commission for projects with building valuations above $150,000 so the utility can assess financial and infrastructure impacts before council action.
Staff explained the central business district incentive policy previously adopted by city council waives specified permit and impact fees within certain areas; the policy initially focused on commercial parcels but has been expanded to allow mixed use. Commissioners said residential components increase potential SAC/WAC liabilities and that the commission should review applications where fee waivers could be substantial.
Commissioner Matten moved and the commission approved a motion requesting the opportunity to review any waiver request for projects with a building valuation over $150,000 and provide a financial-impact analysis prior to council consideration. Staff pointed out that a $150,000 valuation threshold would capture many single-family residential projects; staff also noted typical SAC/WAC fees for a single-family project can be in the low thousands.
The commission asked staff to coordinate with city council liaisons and the Economic Development Authority so potential policy changes or specific cases can be reviewed with full information about revenue tradeoffs and infrastructure capacity.
