Newton commissioners approve tax abatements for Afcon and Full Vision projects
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Summary
The commission approved two property‑tax abatements: a three‑year, tiered abatement for Afcon’s purchase at the Newton City‑County Airport and a 10‑year, 100% abatement for Full Vision’s new 30,000‑sq.‑ft. facility expected to create about 15 jobs.
The Newton City Commission on a voice vote approved two separate tax abatement ordinances for local manufacturers and a growing business that officials say will expand jobs and investment.
City staff described the Afcon proposal as an abatement tied to Afcon’s purchase and planned improvement of the former Mennonite Press building at the Newton City‑County Airport. Staff said the abatement would apply to the increased valuation (the increment) and be tiered over three years — 75% the first year, 50% the second and 25% the third — and that Afcon has met its obligations under the development agreement. The commission opened a public hearing and, hearing no comments, approved ordinance 5190‑25.
Staff then detailed a separate request from Full Vision for a roughly 30,000‑square‑foot facility with an anticipated cost of about $6.5 million and projected creation of approximately 15 new jobs. Staff said Full Vision sought a 10‑year, 100% abatement. A Full Vision representative, Doug, told the commission the company has completed ribbon‑cutting and groundbreaking events, hired initial staff and is ready to expand operations. After no public testimony, the commission approved ordinance 5191‑25.
Commissioners framed both approvals as economic development tools. One commissioner asked that staff verify compliance with the development agreements; staff said they had verified Afcon’s work. No roll‑call tallies were taken on the record; motions carried by voice vote.
What happens next: the ordinances were adopted and staff will continue to oversee compliance with the respective development agreements. If businesses fail to meet obligations, standard city remedies apply.
