In a recent government meeting, officials discussed an incentive agreement for the Bluewood apartment project, which includes up to $480,000 in permit and fee waivers, along with a request for $520,000 in property tax rebates over a ten-year period. The rebate structure is designed to start at 100% and gradually decrease to 30% over the final three years.

The agreement also involves a planned rezoning of the property, which city officials confirmed would be handled internally. However, the specifics of the rebate structure led to some confusion during the meeting, prompting clarifications regarding the percentages for the last three years.

Public feedback was provided by local resident George Breedy, who raised concerns about the nature of the tax rebates, questioning their compliance with constitutional statutes. He argued that the project, which is marketed as providing market-rate apartments, does not require additional incentives since the market is already supporting such developments. Breedy highlighted that the majority of the units are small and not necessarily aimed at larger families, suggesting that the incentives may not be justified.

Despite the concerns raised, some officials expressed support for the project, citing a severe housing shortage in the area and the long-term benefits of increasing the tax base. They acknowledged the challenges faced by developers in the current economic climate but maintained that the agreement would ultimately contribute to addressing housing needs in the community. The discussion concluded without a definitive resolution, leaving the future of the agreement open for further consideration.