City looks at seeking Metro money for town center, corridor location study

The Sherwood Gazette, Dec 28, 2009, Updated Dec 30, 2009

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The construction excise tax is assessed on construction permits issued within the Portland metropolitan region. The tax is assessed at 0.12 percent of the total value of improvements for which the permit is sought. Permits valued below $100,000 and permits for affordable housing projects or services for residents with income levels of 50 percent or less of federal median income standards are exempt.

As part of the eligibility requirements, agencies were required to demonstrate availability of other public and private resources including cash or in-kind services associated with the project. A total of $6,812,600 in grant funds was requested through the 26 letters of intent while applicants secured matching funds and in-kind services totaling an additional $7,462,385 on their own.

In general, projects fell into three broad categories: connecting transportation and land use in both small and large areas, land use and transportation strategies that address maintaining a healthy ecosystem, and helping development happen in areas with site conditions that may preclude traditional development approaches.

One key criteria in evaluating the proposed projects is a focus on development or redevelopment in or near centers, corridors, main streets, station centers, employment areas or industrial areas that enhance the 2040 Growth Plan. In response, several of the letters of intent proposed projects for revitalizing and maintaining the distinctive character of industrial neighborhoods and historic downtowns.

Public agencies submitting a letter of intent will receive feedback from Metro on ways to strengthen their application or provide information that may be missing.

The next step for applicants is to then submit a formal application to Metro by Jan. 29, 2010. Applications will be reviewed by a steering committee comprising nine members with expertise ranging from economic development to real estate and infrastructure finance. After reviewing and scoring the applications, the committee’s recommendations will be passed on to the Metro Council. The first round of grants is expected to be awarded in May 2010.

Metro, the regional government that serves 1.5 million people who live in the 25 cities and three counties of the Portland metropolitan area, provides planning and other services that protect the nature and livability of our region.

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