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The Capital Times commended Progressive Dane's TIF reform proposal. They wrote that it "represents such an important contribution to the local debate" and is a plan that "protects taxpayers while maintaining the ability of the city to aid in the development of responsible projects." Highlights from the editorial are below. The full article is here.
To learn more about the TIF reform package read our recent blog entry.
There are some business lobbyists who suggest that the city's taxpayers should be doing even more to help pay for new projects.That is why the proposal by Madison Alds. Mike Verveer and Judy Olson to make a series of changes to the city's tax incremental financing policy to ensure that projects don't harm the city represents such an important contribution to the local debate.
TIF schemes have been used to help many developers complete projects in Madison over the years, and some of those projects have clearly been worthy of the taxpayer support. But that is not always the case.
The proposal by Verveer, Olson and other members of Progressive Dane who serve on the City Council offers a framework to ensure that worthy projects get support while unreasonable handouts to developers are avoided.
Under the plan, the city would require developers seeking TIF money to:
The Verveer-Olson plan is flexible in that it allows developers who identify at least five community benefits - such as job creation or environmental improvements - to qualify for a quick review of their proposals.
- Abide by the city law that requires them to include lower-cost housing in projects.
- Consult with residents of neighborhoods where projects are proposed.
- Review environmental, economic, historical and cultural concerns that might be impacted by their projects.
- Identify clear community benefits before receiving public money.
By holding developers accountable, the Verveer-Olson plan protects taxpayers while maintaining the ability of the city to aid in the development of responsible projects.
Posted by prodane at June 28, 2005 07:04 PM
We, the members of Progressive Dane, join together to form an independent political party in Dane County with a major focus on local issues. We pledge to work to improve the quality of life in Dane County for all people, particularly those marginalized by economic and social discrimination. We will work to improve our local government by making it open, easier to understand, and accessible for all citizens of Dane County. We are working to achieve positive policy change by electing accountable progressive officials and mobilizing citizen action.
Progressive Dane's "In The News" blog keeps you up to date on the latest news from (and about) PD. Check here for information on PD's policy initiatives and to read about what our endorsed elected officials are up to.
