Mount Pleasant renews downtown special assessment to fund maintenance and snow removal
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Summary
The city commission adopted Resolution 5 to renew Special Assessment District No. 1-26 for 2026 and 2027 to fund downtown maintenance, beautification, snow removal and utilities; staff warned that without the assessment those services would fall to the general fund (about $100,000 annually).
The Mount Pleasant City Commission on Feb. 23 adopted Resolution 5 renewing Special Assessment District No. 1-26, the Principal Shopping District special assessment, for 2026 and 2027.
City Manager Desentz told commissioners the assessment pays for downtown maintenance, beautification, snow removal and utilities for amenities that serve the downtown. "The city uses a special assessment for maintenance, beautification, snow removal, and utilities for amenities that serve the downtown," the manager said, adding the Principal Shopping District board recommended renewal. When asked where those services would be funded if the assessment were not renewed, the manager said it would fall to the general fund "to the tune of, $100,000 and change per year." He warned that the general fund is facing a projected deficit in 2026 and that shifting these costs would worsen that shortfall.
Several commissioners acknowledged petitions opposing the assessment from downtown business owners but said the assessment restores services the district has relied on for years. Commissioners also asked whether TIFA funds could cover these costs; staff said TIFA has been dedicated to capital infrastructure and business incentives and does not typically cover ongoing maintenance or operations.
After discussion, Commissioner Sklitsky moved to approve Resolution 5; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote.
The renewal sets the legal authorization and repayment terms for the assessment; staff said the district board recommended continuing the charge to cover the listed services. The commission will publish the resolution and finalize repayment terms as required by state procedures.
What happens next: The resolution takes effect under the usual public-authority schedule for special assessments; residents and downtown property owners will receive notices per the city's process.
