CCAgenda-4/21/04WS - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

The MUPTE program provides a ten-year tax exemption on the value of the new housing investment. While the housing improvement is exempted, the land beneath it continues to be taxed during the exemption period. The new housing investment, which likely represents a significant value increase over the pre-project improvements, is placed on the tax rolls at an appreciated value at the end of the exemption. Other Background Information At a work session, the council requested staff to suggest quality standards that could be added to the program. Four City staff met with three private sector architects to identify potential standards. Each of the architects has worked on designing downtown buildings. The team included Mike Sullivan and Richie Weinman of the Community Development Division, Patricia Thomas, an architect in the Planning Division, Nan Laurence, a designer in the Planning Division, Curt Wilson of WBGS Architecture and Planning, Planning Commissioner John Lawless of TBG Architects and Planners, and Sara Bergsund ofBergsund Delaney Architecture and Planning. As a result, last December the following options were placed in front of the public for comment. The neighborhood associations, Downtown Eugene Inc., and other known interested parties were notified. In January this proposal was referenced on the City's home web page and linked to: www. ci. eugene, or. us/downtown/tax exemptions. Timing Action was originally scheduled on the City Council' s February 23, 2004, agenda but was moved to April 12, 2004, and postponed again until April 21, 2004. OPTIONS Boundary Options: The maps in Attachment A include options for a new boundary that were identified at the public hearing. Proposed options for quality standards related to the granting of a Multiple Unit Housing Property Tax Exemption (MUPTE) are noted below: Option 1: Replace the "Public Benefits" portion of the MUPTE application with one referencing seven quality standards: 1. Incorporation of sustainability features such as conservation performance measures, solar heating, natural lighting, and "green" building (techniques that use environmentally friendly materials and practices), and landscaping with native species that reduce the need for fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. 2. Responsiveness to adjacent historic structures that are on the National Historic Register or listed as a City Landmark. 3. Use of higher quality materials that contribute to longevity or durability or enhanced building design. 4. Prominent entry facing the public street. L:\CMO\2004 Council Agendas\M040421\S040421B.doc