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Council approves first readings to authorize tax abatements for two Old Town redevelopment projects
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Summary
The Belton City Council approved first readings to designate redevelopment projects and authorize tax abatements for improvements at 515–519 Main Street ($206,764) and 704 Main Street ($154,000). Staff and the Old Town Redevelopment Corporation recommended approval; council asked staff to certify exterior vs. interior costs during cost certification before final abatement certification.
The Belton City Council on first reading approved tax-abatement authorizations for two Old Town redevelopment projects, moves that clear the way for city staff to certify improvements and for property owners to pursue state-authorized abatement benefits.
Planning staff said the Meet Me On Main/Chamber of Commerce building at 515–519 Main Street is seeking $206,764 in interior and exterior improvements. Staff estimated that, over a 12-year abatement period, property taxes could increase from roughly $4,400 annually to about $7,100 once improvements are completed and certified. The Old Town Redevelopment Corporation recommended the project for approval by a 3–0 vote with two abstentions; staff told council that any pre-construction work would be removed from the certification if it occurred before council approval.
For 704 Main Street, applicants Chris Richardson and Michelle Mellinger requested roughly $154,000 in exterior improvements. Planning staff said the Old Town board had recommended unanimous approval. Staff reiterated that no work had begun on the 704 Main Street project and that the city would perform an initial inspection if council gave approval.
Council members pressed staff on the mechanics of cost certification, asking how the city would ensure the required minimum exterior improvement threshold is met when projects include substantial interior work. Planning staff said the city will perform cost certification using receipts and an inspection process, and that staff would hold applicants to the policy. One council member said approval should not be interpreted as “carte blanche” to proceed if post-construction costs change, and staff agreed that certification provides the control point.
The council approved first readings for both amendments (Bills 2026-13 and 2026-14); final certification of abatement eligibility will depend on staff inspections and cost-certification once work is completed.
