Dimmitt council adopts Chapter 380 program and reviews draft $200,000 incentive for Dimmitt Bar & Grill

The Dimmitt City Council voted Jan. 19 to adopt a Chapter 380 economic development program, clearing the way for future incentive agreements with private businesses. City Manager Daniel Jackson told the council the city must have a Chapter 380 program in place to pursue any Chapter 380 agreements.

Following adoption, the council discussed a draft Chapter 380 agreement proposed by Dimmitt Bar & Grill, LLC. City Manager Jackson described the draft as preliminary; the draft referenced a program grant not to exceed $200,000 and the conveyance of property located at 319 N. Broadway Street, Dimmitt. Applicant Rutvik Sojitrato presented a business plan, financials and a 3-D diagram of the proposed restaurant and answered council questions. Councilors asked multiple questions and the presenter responded to their satisfaction; the council did not take action on the draft agreement at the Jan. 19 meeting.

The adopted Chapter 380 program is a local economic development policy that allows the city to negotiate incentives with private entities under the authority of state law; the council’s adoption is a prerequisite to negotiating and approving individual agreements. Details of any future agreement with Dimmitt Bar & Grill, LLC — including specific grant terms, performance conditions and conveyance mechanics — remain under review and were not finalized during the meeting.