Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing Pilot topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Bladensburg counters Hamlet Woods PILOT request with higher per‑unit payment
Summary
Council discussed a proposed 30‑year PILOT for 59 workforce housing units; staff recommended a $600/unit starting payment with scheduled escalators instead of the owner's $500/unit request, citing increased town services and higher assessed values since 2023.
Town staff on July 13 presented a draft payment‑in‑lieu (PILOT) framework for the 59‑unit Hamlet Woods workforce housing project and recommended council negotiate a higher per‑unit payment than the developer requested.
Town Administrator Wood said the project's 2023 assessed value was about $7.97 million and the owner sought a $500 per‑unit PILOT with periodic escalators. "We countered at $600 per unit," Wood said, explaining that town services have increased (apartment inspections, public safety and other service costs) and that present assessed values may be closer to $10–12 million. Wood added the proposed town structure yields roughly a 43% reduction relative to full tax burden versus the 50% reduction the developer secured from the county.
Council asked practical questions about contract terms and who bears service costs if ownership changes; Wood said PILOT language would typically run with the property and not the owner. Council member Dixon asked whether the 30‑year term would survive sale; Wood confirmed this would be specified in the contract.
Council did not vote but directed staff to finalize contract language and return with a memorialized resolution for an official vote at a formal meeting. The mayor and staff noted the developer is anxious for a decision but that financial approvals must occur at a noticed council meeting rather than a retreat.
Council members stressed balancing the town's revenue needs with the project's housing goals. No formal PILOT agreement was adopted at the July session.
