The concern most council members share about development incentives is straightforward: are we giving taxpayer money to a private developer? With developer-backed TIF Bonds, the answer is no. TIF captures only the increase in property taxes that would not exist without the new development — the base year taxes continue flowing to all taxing jurisdictions as usual. The 20 mills for school districts and 1.5 mills for the state are fully protected. Under the Taxpayer Agreement Act, the developer contractually guarantees bond repayment, and delinquent payments are enforceable with the same priority as delinquent property taxes. The city issues bonds as a conduit with no obligation to advance funds from the general fund. When a constituent asks what you voted for, the answer is clear: a tool that grows the tax base while keeping the city financially whole.

As a council member, Kansas law requires a two-thirds supermajority to adopt a redevelopment project plan — a higher threshold that reflects the significance of the decision. Before that vote, you will review a feasibility study demonstrating the project would not happen without TIF, attend a public hearing where affected parties can comment, and evaluate whether the project plan is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan. The developer’s taxpayer agreement, redevelopment agreement, and the special obligation bond terms will all be part of the record. Your job is to evaluate whether the project genuinely benefits your community and ensure the safeguards are in place. Developer-backed TIF Bonds make that evaluation simpler because the risk structure is clear and enforceable.