Harmony EDA backs revised home-rebate rules to boost housing stock

The Harmony Economic Development Authority voted Sept. 3 to approve revised guidelines for its New Home Rebate Program and recommended the changes to the Harmony City Council.

The revision allows rebates for major renovations of vacant or seriously dilapidated properties that increase a home’s taxable value by at least $50,000, provided the work also increases the community’s housing stock. Under the proposal, projects that raise taxable value by $50,000 or more would qualify for a $2,000 rebate; larger increases of $75,000 to $125,000 would be eligible for $3,000 to $4,000 rebates. The existing schedule for new-construction rebates remains unchanged.

Chris Giesen, who prepared the guideline draft, told the board the language now explicitly states the program’s aim is to create new housing units rather than subsidize ordinary home improvements. "The intent is to add living units to the community, not to fund kitchen remodels or basement finishing," Giesen said.

Board members stressed the point during discussion. Steve Donney moved to approve the revised guidelines and recommend council adoption; Andy Batstone seconded the motion, and it carried unanimously.

Board members asked that the guidelines require the county assessor to determine the increase in taxable value and that the rules specifically prohibit general improvement projects such as kitchen remodels, additions, and basement finishing. Giesen confirmed those restrictions are incorporated in the updated draft.

The EDA will forward the revised guidelines to the City Council for formal consideration. The board’s recommendation is advisory; final adoption rests with the council.