Kalispell Chamber of CommerceProviding Economic, Community, and Workforce Development Services
www.kalispellchamber.com
.January 3, 2012
The Honorable Mayor Tammi Fisher and Members of Kalispell City Council
City of Kalispell
201 First Avenue East
Kalispell, MT 59901
Re: Westside Urban Renewal District Projects: Support for Recommendations of the Urban
Renewal Agency
Dear Mayor Fisher and Members of City Council:
On behalf of our Board of Directors and membership, I would like to express the support of the
Kalispell Chamber of Commerce for the recommendations made by the Urban Renewal Agency for
projects to amend into the Westside Urban Renewal District.
Tax increment funding has been used for good effect in the Westside District. Funds used for
the acquisition and remodel of the TeleTech space and for related improvements, and transportation
and storm water improvements have strengthened our community and the overall business climate.
We also support the proposed creation of a $750,000 revolving loan fund for demolition and
remediation of obsolete structures including the Kalispell Lumber property and for the infrastructure
improvements. These are good uses of tax increment funds and will help to prepare under-utilized
structures for redevelopment. We think that the acquisition and/or swapping of property to
accommodate additional parking for TeleTech is best deferred until terms have been reached on the
lease renewal for TeleTech.
I would like to thank the Council for its diligence and foresight in taking the steps that will return
Kalispell to growth and accelerated job creation. By taking this step, you will enable private
investment to be directed and leveraged with tax increment funds, Brownfield funds, and other
sources that will benefit not just Kalispell, but the entire region.
Sincerely,
r+
i;
Joe Unterreiner, President
t alispell Chamber of Commerce
OFFICE 406.758.2800 * 406.758.2805 FAX • 15 Depot Park, Kalispell, MT 59901