Commission approves expansion of Salina downtown TIF district to include parking and theater blocks

City staff presented an ordinance to expand the Salina Downtown Redevelopment District to include two new areas — a parking lot on South 7th Street and the community theater parcel — at the request of Lighthouse Properties, which plans a hotel and parking garage. Staff emphasized the item only expands the district and does not approve any projects; further approvals would be required before TIF funds could be spent on specific work.

Commissioners closed the hearing after staff and the applicant described the boundaries and the purpose of expansion. The ordinance was adopted by roll-call vote with all commissioners voting in favor. Staff noted the downtown TIF fund is performing well and expanding the district would allow TIF proceeds generated in the expanded area to be eligible for district projects in the future.