TIF agreement with Baumler Implement fails
TIF agreement with
Baumler Implement fails
It is back to square one for the City of West Union and Baumler Implement after the development
agreement presented at Monday’s meeting was defeated, 2-1.
The TIF agreement in front of the City Councilmembers stated that payments from the
City to Baumler’s shall not exceed $208,710 and would be paid for 10 years. The semiannual
economic development tax-increment payments set out in the agreement would be an amount
equal to 90 percent of the incremental property tax revenues received by the City with respect
to the Baumler Implement property during the six months immediately preceding each payment
date.
Councilmember Cathy Bemiss questioned the length and amount of the contract but was
informed that the resolution would have to move through the TIF committee again before
coming before the council.
Following a lengthy discussion, Michael Lauer motioned for a vote, but the resolution
failed, 2-1, with Bemiss and Kennon Gumm voting nay. Councilman Roy Guenther was absent.
The council approved a resolution vacating the City-owned property located at 204 South
Vine Street and, in turn, conveying the property to Pam and Kevin Cline.
Jesse Wagner gave the City an update on fundraising efforts for the proposed new
Kaleidoscope Kids Childcare Center, stating that, to date, $466,000 has been raised.
That amount does not include the secured loan with USDA.
“We believe this project improves the community’s
life and the lives in the surrounding communities, as well,”
Wagner added.
Currently the KKCC committee is looking at outside
grant opportunities with John Deere and Walmart, as well as
the Iowa CAT grant. The organization is also waiting for the
April announcement on the Community Development Block
Grant.
In other business, the council:
• Passed resolutions approving all transfers necessary to
complete and balance the budget for fi scal years ending June
30, 2012, and June 30, 2013.
• Approved the appointment of Brent Parker to the Parks
and Recreation Board, replacing Kathy Wenthold.
• Approved a cigarette permit for Fiscal Year 2012-13
for Dollar General Store #7653.
• Approved a liquor license for Fayette County
Agricultural Society, Inc. with Class B native wine, Sunday
sales, and outdoor service privileges.
• Approved the budget and set the public hearing of the
proposed 2013-14 City of West Union Budget for Monday,
March 4.
The next regular meeting of the West Union City Council
is set for 6 p.m. Monday, March 4.