HEDC votes on TIF districts, entertainment buffer amendment

The Housing and Economic Development Committee reviewed three affordable housing Tax Increment Finance District requests, with two projects facing mixed committee support due to questions about financial arrangements and inclusionary zoning compliance. The committee also voted to send a proposal to remove the 100-foot buffer for entertainment venues to the Planning Board, following public comment from business owners and residents. Additionally, the committee discussed expanding the Housing Trust Fund for eviction prevention but decided to hold off on amendments pending further review.

Key points

• The committee voted 2-1 to recommend the TIF district for 197 Oxford Street to the City Council, with Councillors Sykes and Michniewicz voting no.
• The committee voted 2-1 to recommend the TIF district for 15-19 Cedar Street, with Councillor Sykes voting no.
• The committee voted unanimously to recommend the TIF amendment for 42 Atlantic Street to the City Council.
• The committee voted unanimously to send the proposal to remove the 100-foot entertainment venue buffer to the Planning Board for further review.
• Public commenters, including business owners and the director of Creative Portland, urged the removal of the buffer to support nightlife and local artists.
• The committee decided not to amend the Housing Trust Fund ordinance at this time, citing the need for more information on revenue sources and potential impacts.

Next steps

• Staff will provide additional information on the financial arrangements between Reveler and Avesta to the full Council before the July 20 reading.
• The Planning Board will hold a workshop and public hearing on the entertainment buffer amendment, with a recommendation to the City Council expected in the fall.
• Staff will explore the feasibility of temporary event licenses that might bypass the 100-foot buffer requirement.
• The committee will continue to monitor the Housing Trust Fund and revisit potential amendments after the Social Housing Task Force provides recommendations.

Read the full transcript