DDA authorizes negotiations for tax-increment reimbursement to support opera house redevelopment

The Lapeer City Downtown Development Authority voted June 24 to enter negotiations with Thomas Lagna Properties on a draft tax-increment reimbursement (TIR) agreement to help support rehabilitation of the downtown opera house.

Staff described the project as a multiyear, roughly $5.75 million redevelopment that would add seven (with potential expansion to 10) residential units on upper floors, restore historic plaster and architectural elements on the third-floor event space, install fire suppression for the upper floors, and create a reception/event area that could support courthouse weddings. The draft TIR would share a portion of increased tax capture with the developer for a negotiated term (presentation used illustrative annual reimbursement ranges of about $15,000 to $30,000 depending on final assessed values and a negotiated cap).

Board members stressed that the TIR would be conditional: reimbursements would be paid only after project completion and after taxable value increases; the draft includes project requirements such as a minimum private investment (staff mentioned at least $1 million), adherence to the DDA development plan, historic-preservation elements and documentation requirements. Staff said using a local reimbursement could make the project more competitive for state grants (MEDC/IBD) by demonstrating local support.

The board voted to authorize negotiations and to direct staff to return a completed draft with firm numbers and legal review for final approval. One member recorded an opposition vote; the motion carried.