Perry council backs economic package for Ditch Witch facility, waiving internal fees and passing on third‑party costs

The City Council voted to support a Ditch Witch expansion by agreeing to an economic development arrangement that waives internal city fees while passing on out‑of‑pocket third‑party inspection costs to the company. The item prompted extended discussion about precedent, fairness to existing employers and the mechanics of reimbursement.

Staff described the approach as consistent with prior practice for major local projects: internal, administrative fees would be waived or reimbursed on completion, while actual third‑party costs (state fire marshal, third‑party inspectors and plan reviewers) would be billed to the developer. Staff presented an internal-cost estimate of roughly $54,000 and said third‑party, out‑of‑pocket charges would total about $25,000 (estimates provided in discussion). One staff member explained: “We would charge only our out-of-pocket costs and all other fees are waived.”

Council debate: Members discussed whether to waive fees up front or reimburse on completion, how the city handled past projects (examples: Loves, Crowe’s), and whether the city should treat large existing employers differently. Several members argued for consistency; others emphasized the project’s potential for about 100 jobs and significant local investment.

Outcome: Council made and approved a motion to waive internal permit fees and pass on third‑party out‑of‑pocket costs for the Ditch Witch project. Staff said they would draft amendment language reflecting the change and bring it back if needed. The council also authorized staff to issue permits under that understanding while formal language is prepared.