Olathe is changing how developers can get tax incentives. Earlier in December, the Olathe City Council approved amendments to multiple economic incentive policies, updating the requirements for the use of tax abatements, Community Improvement Districts (CID), Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and the issuance of Industrial Revenue Bonds (IRB). The changes bar incentives for delinquent taxpayers and prevent tax breaks for developers threatening legal action against the city. Beginning Monday, incentives typically granted through a CID, TIF or the creation of a benefit district will not be approved if the developer has a financial interest in an existing development with delinquent taxes within the city. Applicants seeking incentives for new development will be required to certify, under oath, that they are not financially tied to a property with delinquent taxes and have no federal or state tax liens in Kansas. The City Council will no longer consider applications for the creation of CID or TIF districts if the developer, company principals or any affiliates are engaged in or have threatened legal action against the city.
Source: Kansas City Business Journal
