In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the establishment of a new district encompassing 20 parcels over 40 acres, which includes 16 vacant development parcels and four infrastructure parcels. The infrastructure parcels, which consist of rail right-of-way and stormwater detention areas, will not be included in the eligibility analysis for development.

The meeting highlighted the eligibility criteria for the vacant parcels, which were assessed through field observations, economic trends, and technical evaluations related to flooding and runoff. Two pathways were identified for establishing eligibility: one requiring the presence of two out of six factors, and another needing at least one factor to be meaningfully present and reasonably distributed.

The analysis revealed that the vacant parcels qualify as a blighted area based on both tests. The two-factor test identified obsolete platting and a lack of growth in equalized value, while the one-factor test confirmed that all parcels contribute to chronic flooding in the McInnes low watershed.

Further evaluations indicated a historic lack of private investment in the area, with no new construction activity reported on the vacant parcels. Officials noted that without the proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) designation, substantial development in the area is unlikely.

The redevelopment plan aims to support the vision outlined in the comprehensive and master development plans, focusing on new construction, public infrastructure improvements, and enhanced landscaping. The proposed budget for the TIF plan is set at $70 million, which will be allocated to eligible costs as defined in the plan.

The future land use map designates the area for mixed-use development, allowing for a variety of uses including commercial, residential, and community facilities. The public approval process is underway, with a public hearing and village board vote scheduled for September.