The Culver Town Council approved the formation of the Culver Economic Development Commission.
A public hearing on the matter was held Tuesday night where a question about the purpose of the commission was raised. Town Council President Ginny Bess Munroe explained that the commission would be able to deem a residential project eligible for tax abatement. She further explained that a residential tax abatement differs from a commercial tax abatement, but the financial incentive is the same. A recommendation for a residential tax abatement has to be presented by the commission to the town council for approval.
The consideration of a residential tax abatement for the proposed Sandhill Farms workforce development housing project would fall under the umbrella of the Culver Economic Development Commission.
No other public comment was given during the public hearing.
The council went on to approve the second reading of an ordinance establishing the three-member commission. It was approved by members Munroe, Tammy Shaffer and Sally Ricciardi. Council member Joel Samuelson opposed the motion. Member David Beggs was not present. The third reading found the same members in favor with Samuelson abstaining from the vote. The ordinance passed on final reading.
Additionally, the council approved the Marshall County Council’s recommendation of installing Don Fox on the commission. Munroe, as the acting council president, has the authority to appoint the final two members. She chose County Commissioner Kevin Overmyer and Culver Town Manager Jonathan Leist.
The first meeting will be Monday, Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. ET where the commission will organize and hold a public hearing on the proposed residential tax abatement request. The meeting will be held at the Culver Town Hall.
