County Approves Changes to Oakdale TIF Districts

The Washington County Board on Tuesday approved changes to tax-increment financing districts in Oakdale that were extended during the 2013 legislative session.

Sen. Chuck Wiger (D-43) and Sen. Susan Kent (D-53) introduced Senate File 48, meant to further economic development at Tartan Crossing and the Tanners Lake area.  

The legislation:

• extends the time for the city to establish the Tanner's Lake TIF district and allows for a 35-year life of the district (redevelopment districts normally have a maximum life of 25 years);
• extends the duration of the Bergen Plaza TIF district for 10 additional years, through 2040. The district was certified in 1990.

The additional funds generated by the Bergen Plaza TIF extension will be used to pay for public infrastructure for the Tanner’s Lake and Tartan Crossing redevelopment projects, according to a release from Washington County.

The special taxing districts allow cities “capture” increases in property taxes that would usually go to the city, county and school district, and use the funds for the redevelopment of property.

Under state law, before changes to the Oakdale TIF districts can take effect, the county and school district affected must give their approval.