Item A: Multi-Unit Property Tax Exemption

Home Browse Search

Corridor Concept Envision Eugene identified six primary transit corridors within Eugene; each of the corridors as well as property within one-quarter mile of a fixed route transit service along the corridor could be eligible for MUPTE under state eligibility rules. (See Attachment A for a map of the six corridors.) The corridor concept provides a broad spectrum of possibilities for application of the MUPTE program. With the most limited application, the council could designate MUPTE for only certain corridors or limited property along that corridor, such as only commercially zoned property facing a major street. With the most inclusive application, the council could designate MUPTE for all corridors and appropriately zoned property within the quarter-mile. The council could also choose to include property only after an area plan has been completed or where development potential is evident. Proposed Strategy Based on insights from the analysis completed as part of Envision Eugene and from council discussion, staff considered each corridor in terms of development potential and the need for financial incentives. Staff also considered any recent area planning as a way to address compatibility issues and other areas of neighborhood concern. Staff proposes that the council consider three corridors for MUPTE this fall, as follows:  South Willamette/Midtown South Willamette is in the process of public engagement for an area plan to pilot the Envision Eugene area planning strategy. On October 3, a South Willamette design workshop was held, a significant first step toward urban design planning of one of the areas to see how it can accommodate the growth over the next 20 years.  Franklin Boulevard Franklin Boulevard was the focus of recent area planning culminating in the Walnut Station Area Plan. This plan involved property owners, residents, business owners, and representatives from the University and was adopted by the council in 2010. The plan addresses desired form and density through a Special Area Zone and form-based code. thth  Trainsong/6/7 Trainsong and the 6th/7th corridor have not been part of a recent area planning process. Development potential in this area is less evident. However, this is an area that was eligible for MUPTE previously, and was identified during council discussion as one that could benefit from MUPTE in the future. Area planning could occur in the future as staff resources allow. Each of these areas, shown on Attachment B, requires additional analysis and public involvement to determine which properties should be covered by the MUPTE program. The decision needs to include measures for enhancing and protecting community livability while increasing the desired multi-family housing and mixed-use projects for each area. S:\CMO\2011 Council Agendas\M111012\S111012A.doc