Commission pauses action on proposed commercial‑redevelopment pilot policy to coordinate incentives

City staff presented a proposed pilot policy intended to encourage redevelopment of older commercial properties by allowing property tax exemptions (up to 10 years and potentially up to 100%) with a 'but‑for' test to evaluate eligibility. Staff said no applications exist yet and emphasized the pilot is intended to complement existing downtown, neighborhood and job‑focused incentives.

Commissioners raised concerns about timing and coordination with other taxing jurisdictions, including the county and school board, and noted the need to consider the city’s land development code and a 3% property‑tax cap on existing properties. Commissioner Peppcorn moved to continue the item to a later date to allow administration time to coordinate with other jurisdictions; several commissioners supported a continuance but urged some urgency on the review. The motion to continue the discussion passed by roll call.

The commission did not adopt rules or approve specific projects; staff were asked to circulate the county and school incentive policies and to return the item when interjurisdictional context is clearer.