Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves final plan to start downtown Economic Improvement District process
Summary
Council approved a final plan to advance a downtown Economic Improvement District (EID). If formed after the public-notice period, the district would levy assessed contributions (standard 10¢/sq ft; 7.5¢/sq ft tier for nonprofits and government) for three years with an optional three-year renewal.
The Medford City Council voted on Jan. 7 to approve a final plan that starts the public-notice phase for a proposed downtown Economic Improvement District (EID).
City Attorney Eric Minton explained the EID is a three-step process: adoption of a final plan, a notice and public-hearing period allowing affected property owners to file written opposition, and a possible public hearing in February. Under the plan, the primary assessment would be 0.10 dollars per square foot per year with a second tier of 0.075 dollars per square foot for nonprofits and governmental entities; the plan duration is three years with a single optional three-year renewal as provided by statute.
Minton noted that if written opposition is received from owners representing 33% or more of the affected area, an EID cannot be formed. If opposition falls below that threshold, the council retains discretion after the public hearing on whether to proceed.
Councilors discussed prior efforts to form a downtown improvement district, asked clarifying questions about opt-out rules and boundaries (the Carnegie Library property would be included in the affected area), and expressed support for the downtown association’s efforts to drive economic improvements. Councilor Kevin Stein moved approval; the motion passed by roll call.
