Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves small ITEP for International Meso Technologies despite public objection
Summary
The board approved an industrial tax exemption (ITEP) application for International Meso Technologies Inc. after a short debate; a public commenter argued the district should oppose all ITEPs because the program can reduce school tax receipts.
The East Baton Rouge Parish School Board voted to approve an industrial tax exemption (ITEP) application from International Meso Technologies Inc. following public comment and board discussion.
Tanya Nyman, an in-person commenter, urged the board to oppose ITEPs generally, calling lease arrangements and tax abatements ‘‘predatory’’ in some cases and noting that Louisiana is one of few states that subjects public school systems to these abatement programs. Nyman said the company’s request was modest (she estimated roughly $10,000 over 10 years) but argued that local approval legitimizes a statewide policy that can disadvantage public schools.
Board members debated the trade-offs between economic development and tax revenue. Mr. Martin moved approval and argued that ITEPs often lead to expansions that would not occur otherwise and that the district ultimately benefits when abatements expire and full taxes are collected. The motion to approve the ITEP was seconded and carried by board vote as recorded in the meeting.
