Council authorizes blight assessments for two infill redevelopment areas; commercial TIF concept discussed

City staff asked for authorization to conduct blight assessments—estimated at $3,000–$5,000 per area—for two infill redevelopment areas: properties near Central College (including two dormitories) and a residential area commonly referenced as the Cub Street area. Staff explained a blight assessment is the first step to establish urban revitalization or urban renewal designations (tax abatement or TIF) and that identifying areas as blighted under state law can make more economic-development tools available to the city.

Council discussed that the assessments would help facilitate redevelopment that leverages existing public infrastructure and could make properties eligible for tax abatement or developer rebate agreements. Staff asked for authorization to proceed and reported the combined estimated cost for both assessments would be $6,000–$10,000; council directed staff to begin the process.

Separately staff presented a high-level concept plan to form new commercial and industrial urban renewal districts that would link corridors and development areas to support new commercial/industrial growth and finance major street and infrastructure projects. Staff said the concept builds on prior district experience and would be refined with legal counsel before formal actions and hearings.