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Redevelopment commission finds 2711 W. 37th Ave blighted, clears path for TIF-dependent acquisition
Summary
The Hobart Redevelopment Commission voted to declare 2711 West 37th Avenue blighted under the RDC statute (section 19.5), enabling further appraisal and potential acquisition as part of a broader TIF redevelopment strategy; commissioners discussed funding and eminent-domain limits.
The Hobart Redevelopment Commission voted March 16 to declare 2711 West 37th Avenue — a property owned by Regional Data Management LLC — "blighted" under the RDC statute, a procedural finding that can allow the commission to pursue acquisition options consistent with redevelopment planning.
An attorney advising the commission summarized the legal standard in section 19.5 of the RDC statute and recommended wording for the motion, which the commission moved and seconded. The attorney and other staff said the determination would be based on assessor values, appraisals the city is obtaining and observable conditions: the parcel was described as an aging, nonfunctional car wash currently used for commercial-vehicle storage.
Commissioners discussed financing options, including using tax-increment financing (TIF) as part of a broader corridor redevelopment plan. Staff and counsel noted the RDC itself does not exercise eminent domain — that power rests with the city council — but the RDC can participate in TIF-driven acquisitions and the city can provide funds if it chooses. Appraisals and additional due diligence were listed as prerequisites before any purchase.
The commission approved the blight determination by voice vote. Staff said next steps include finalizing appraisals and coordinating TIF district planning before any property purchase moves forward.
