A Kansas Department of Commerce official told lawmakers Monday that expanding the scope of STAR bonds would allow the agency to approve public funding for a development project around the University of Kansas Medical Center.
Skeptical House Republicans questioned David Soffer, policy director for the commerce department, on legislation that would overhaul and extend the use of Sales Tax Revenue Bonds, a 20-year-old state program aimed at developing tourist attractions. The program is set to expire this year.
Soffer defended the agency’s proposal to add “significant” medical facility and business offices to the list of projects eligible for taxpayer-supported investments. These developments would attract visitors who spend money just like traditional tourist attractions, Soffer said.
(Read more: Local – The Hutchinson News)