Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves TIF ordinance covering Wickford Woods and nearby parcels
Summary
Council passed Ordinance 98-2026 to establish a tax-increment financing (TIF) area encompassing parcels including Wickford Woods Apartments and adjacent church property to support future infrastructure and potential redevelopment.
Council members voted to advance Ordinance 98-2026, declaring improvements to certain parcels of real property a public purpose and establishing a tax-increment financing area to capture service payments for infrastructure that may support future development. City staff said the proposed TIF includes the Wickford Woods Apartments (formerly serving Lourdes University dorm functions), an adjacent Lutheran Church parcel and mid-campus parcels; the goal is to enable the city to fund infrastructure should redevelopment occur.
Staff said the local school district had been notified, passed a resolution to waive a 14-day notice requirement, and does not object because the city intends to “make the schools whole,” a standard TIF safeguard. Councilmember Marcus Hanson moved for passage as an emergency measure and the council approved the ordinance by voice vote.
Why it matters: A TIF can redirect future incremental tax-equivalent payments to infrastructure in the designated area rather than to the regular tax base; the ordinance does not itself authorize specific development but creates the financing mechanism that could be used if projects emerge.
What the council decided: The ordinance was approved; staff and departments will continue coordination with the school district and property owners if redevelopment proposals arise.
