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Council asks staff to draft 'Bailey bill' historic-preservation incentive; motion passes 5–1
Summary
Councilors discussed a proposed local incentive (referred to as the "Bailey bill") to encourage restoration of locally defined historic properties and voted 5–1 to direct staff to prepare a first-reading ordinance; questions were raised about tax-share impacts and whether incentives pick winners and losers.
Council members discussed whether to direct staff to draft an ordinance (referred to by councilors as the "Bailey bill") to offer incentives for restoration of locally defined historic properties.
Staff said the tool would allow the city to offer property-tax relief or other incentives — shaped by council policy — to promote preservation and restoration projects. Discussion noted that most property tax revenue is collected at the county level and that the city's rate is a fraction of a larger tax bill; councilors asked about the extent to which county participation would be required or whether the city’s contribution alone would be sufficient.
One councilor opposed the idea in principle, arguing that incentives amount to "picking winners and losers." Supporters said the incentive could help return neglected buildings to productive tax rolls and spur business-license revenue. After discussion councilors voted 5–1 to direct staff to draft the ordinance language for first reading.
Staff will prepare a draft ordinance and return it for the council’s consideration in September per normal ordinance timelines.
