Commission hears Memorial Hall nonprofit update and new state incentives that could boost downtown rehabilitation

At the May 19 meeting the commission heard an update on Memorial Hall's organizational and project progress and a briefing on recent state legislation that could affect downtown redevelopment.

A commissioner reported that the Memorial Hall board has convened, filed for federal 501(c)(3) status and selected a consultant to handle design and historic documentation work, with the consultant expected to finish initial work by the end of September. The commissioner said three board seats remain open and solicited interest from members.

Separately, commissioners discussed three pieces of state legislation reported as recently passed: an expected local ballot item to increase the hotel/motel lodging tax from 4% to 6% to raise local revenue for projects; an increase in the state historic tax credit from 25% to 35% (with nonprofits eligible to apply); and a new incentive for redeveloping upper-floor housing that can be stacked with historic tax credits. Commissioners noted exceptions and regional differences in the credits (Kansas City and St. Louis retain a 25% rate in some cases) and said staff will review details to understand program mechanics and eligibility.

Commissioners characterized the combined effect of stacked credits as a potentially significant incentive for developers: one discussion noted combining state and federal credits could cover a substantial portion of qualified costs. Members urged staff to dig into program rules and report back so local stakeholders understand how to apply the incentives to projects such as Memorial Hall.

The commission took no formal action on Memorial Hall funding or the legislation at this meeting; it asked staff to follow up as the programs are implemented.