Commission approves UTC requisitions and Star City MOU to use TIF funds for sidewalks

The Monongalia County Commission on Aug. 27 approved two requisitions for University Town Center tax districts and a memorandum of understanding with the Town of Star City to use tax increment financing (TIF) revenues to fund sidewalks and related streetscape improvements.

Commissioners approved Requisition No. 27 for the University Town Center series 2023A property tax district in the amount of $1,647.50 and Requisition No. 108 for the University Town Center excise tax district in the amount of $1,002.83 (amount as recorded). Both requisitions designate payment to Steptoe and Johnson. Commissioners voted in favor on both motions by unanimous voice vote of the three commissioners present.

The commission also approved an MOU with the Town of Star City to establish the approach for design, construction and equipping of sidewalk and related streetscape infrastructure and to allow use of TIF district revenues in the town to pay associated costs. County staff told the commission that bonds on that TIF district have been paid off and that the MOU is necessary to set the terms for using funds that will continue to flow into the district.

At the Aug. 27 meeting, county staff said the state will handle handicap-accessible portions of University Avenue where appropriate, and the project is planned as a streetscaping and sidewalk improvement along University Avenue. No bid or construction contract was awarded at the meeting; the MOU sets the framework for further design and funding actions between the county and Star City.

Commissioners made the motions to approve the requisitions and the MOU; each motion was seconded and passed by unanimous voice votes.