2. Urban Renewal Agency Policies - West Side TIF DistrictCity of Kalispell
Post Office Box 1997 - Kalispell, Montana 59903
Telephone: (406) 758-7701 Fax: (406) 758-7758
MEMORANDUM
To: Doug Russell, City Manager
Cc: Tom Jentz, Planning Director
From: Katharine Thompson, Community Development Manager
Re: Proposed Policies on West Side -Core Area Tax Increment Finance District
Meeting Date: February 10, 2013
City Council action in December 2012 expanded the West Side Tax Increment Finance District
to include the Core Area of Kalispell. The Urban Renewal Plan adopted by Council for the Core
Area required that specific policies be developed to ensure that funding efforts are compliant
with the Plan in addition to meeting the requirements of Montana state law.
Thus the Kalispell Urban Renewal Agency, a committee comprised of five community
volunteers, has worked for several months to develop said policies. These draft policies are
compiled in a document submitted herein for City Council review and consideration.
At the work session on Monday, representatives from the Urban Renewal Agency will be present
to answer questions related to the proposed policies for the West Side Tax Increment District.
Following the work session, it is anticipated that the policies will be presented for formal
approval at a future council meeting, pending any alterations that may emerge from the work
session discussion.
City of Kalispell
West Side Urban Renewal - Core Area
Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
City of Kalispell- Urban Renewal Agency
City Council Resolution
January 1, 2014
1
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Table of Contents
Introduction
2
Guidelines and Eligible Activities
4
Application Process
5
List of Available Programs
7
Facade Improvement Program
8
Rehabilitation/Code Compliance Program
10
Historic Fagade Restoration Program
11
Site Demolition, Cleanup, and Preparation Program
13
Technical Assistance Program
15
Shared Utilities Program
17
Street Tree Placement Program
18
Sidewalk Placement Program
19
Public Infrastructure Program
20
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financin'- District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
INTRODUCTION
Tax Increment Financing (hereafter referred to as `TIF') is an important element of economic
development in the City of Kalispell as a means to fund development activities. The TIF program
operates by first establishing a base year taxable value for all properties within a designated
boundary. Property taxes from that boundary or district continue to be paid to all taxing
jurisdictions such as schools, county, etc., on the basis of the base year valuation. All increases
in property taxes in the district above this tax base valuation due to new development or
reappraisals are assigned to the City of Kalispell to be used to fund eligible activities identified
within the urban renewal plan for the West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area TIF District.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
In 1997, an urban renewal plan was adopted by the Kalispell City Council creating the West Side
Urban Renewal Plan and Tax Increment Financing District, (City of Kalispell Resolution 4309).
The intent of the plan was to improve the area and encourage redevelopment through the use of
TIF as specified by Montana Urban Renewal Law 7-15-42 and 7-15-43, M.C.A.
In 2010, pursuant to City of Kalispell Resolution 5435, an Urban Renewal Agency (hereafter
referred to as `URA') was established for the purpose of assisting the City Council in evaluating
and proposing tax increment finance district plans and projects. This five member committee is
responsible for reviewing all TIF applications and making recommendations to Kalispell City
Council.
In 2012 City of Kalispell Ordinance 1717 modified the boundaries of the Westside Tax
Increment Financing District to include an area referred to as the "Core Area". The Core Area is
an area encompassing 365 acres. Most initial redevelopment efforts will be focused along the
major roadways of Idaho Street, Main Street, Center Street, Meridian Road, and 51h Avenue West
North so that a more concentrated impact is realized.
In 2013, Kalispell City Council Resolution 5605 adopted as an amendment to the West Side
Urban Renewal Plan, the Core Area Plan. The intent is to eliminate blight and encourage
redevelopment in the West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIF District through the use of TIF
as specified by State Law. The goals and objectives of the Core Area Plan lay the groundwork
for redevelopment. The language of the planning document encourages the development of
innovative and creative projects in Kalispell consistent with this plan. It is the intention of the
City of Kalispell to foster creative and innovative projects within the West Side Urban Renewal -
Core Area TIF District as well as through the use of its public/ private partnership programs and
other available resources.
CRITERIA FOR REVIEWING FUNDING APPLICATIONS
Throughout the application and review process it should be recognized that the overriding goal
of the West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIF District is the elimination of blight resulting in
an increased tax base. TIF applications will be assessed based on the merits of individual
projects in relation to the goals and objectives of the Core Area Plan (found online at
http://kalispell.com/community economic development/ ). Priority will be given to projects that
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
maximize public benefit. Applications should demonstrate one or more of the following
objectives and considerations:
1. Geographic location— Consideration will be given to projects located along the five
traffic arterials of the Westside Urban Renewal Plan- Core Area TIF District. Most
redevelopment efforts will be focused along these arterials so that a more concentrated
impact may be realized. These arterials include: Idaho Street, Main Street, Center Street,
Meridian Road, 5th Avenue West North.
2. Tax generation— In order for the Westside Urban Renewal Plan- Core Area TIF District
to stay economically healthy for the maximum benefit to the district and community, a
project is expected to generate new taxes.
3. Relationship of public and private investment— The relationship of private investment to
public investment of a project shall be significant enough to ensure prudent investment of
public funds within the Westside Urban Renewal Plan- Core Area TIF District. A public
investment of no more than $1 for every $9 of private funds could be considered a
responsible use of public funds.
4. Job creation— Projects that create opportunities for new employment contribute to the
economic vitality of the district and community in a variety of ways. Projects creating
five or more full-time equivalent jobs would be considered to have a significant positive
impact on the economic well-being of the district, and will be given greater priority.
Additionally, new jobs that pay at or above the median county income level will be given
priority.
5. Investment- The project's potential for subsequent investment in a blighted area, but that
might not be within one of the four major corridors.
6. Improvement of public services - The project's ability to improve public services such as
water, sewer, sidewalks, parking, improved traffic circulation, etc., to an area currently
underserved and which will promote economic development.
7. Unique opportunities- The project's potential to present a unique opportunity, meet a
special need, or address specific TIF district or community goals such as filling a market
niche or providing an un-met community need.
8. Urban renewal goals- The project's ability to significantly further specific goals found in
the Core Area Plan.
9. Environmental Impacts -The project's ability to positively impact the environment in
terms of noise, dust, and traffic reduction; pollution reduction; public safety and
pedestrian access improvements; visual aesthetics, etc.
10. Project financing- Types of financing available to the applicant. Lender participation
commitments, industrial development revenue bonds, and state and federal grant monies,
for example, are examined to assess the need for TIF assistance.
11. Project feasibility- A determination of feasibility is made based on the strength of the
applicant's demonstration of market demand for the project as contained primarily on the
pro forma and financing commitments.
12. Applicant's ability to perform- An assessment of the applicant's capability to undertake
the relative complexities of the project based on past performance and the project design
and management team on similar projects based on the complexity of the project.
13. Timely completion - The feasibility of completing the project according to the applicant's
proposed project schedule.
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
4
GUIDELINES
Grant funding for individual funding categories varies. Loan funding for any individual project
should not exceed more than $150,000. These funding limits are meant to ensure significant
private investment in any given project. If it is the finding of the URA that an amount exceeding
these limits is merited due to the size of the project, the magnitude of its impact on the
surrounding properties, public benefit, and/or tax generation, the URA may, at its sole discretion
recommend additional TIF participation. All property taxes, special improvement district
assessments, and other assessments on the project property must be paid to date. All approved
expenses are reimbursable subject to completion of improvements, based on submittal of
invoices, within one year of executed Development Agreement.
ELIGIBLE ACTIVITIES
Per Montana State Law (7-15-4288 M.C.A.) tax increments may be used by the local
government to pay the following costs of or incurred in connection with an urban renewal area or
targeted economic development district as identified in the urban renewal plan or targeted
economic development district comprehensive development plan:
1. Land acquisition;
2. Demolition and removal of structures;
3. Relocation of occupants;
4. The acquisition, construction, and improvement of public improvements or infrastructure,
including streets, roads, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, pedestrian malls, alleys, parking lots
and off-street parking facilities, sewers, sewer lines, sewage treatment facilities, storm
sewers, waterlines, waterways, water treatment facilities, natural gas lines, electrical
lines, telecommunications lines, rail lines, rail spurs, bridges, publicly owned buildings,
and any public improvements authorized by Title 7, chapter 12, parts 41 through 45; Title
7, chapter 13, parts 42 and 43; and Title 7, chapter 14, part 47, and items of personal
property to be used in connection with improvements for which the foregoing costs may
be incurred;
5. Costs incurred in connection with the redevelopment activities allowed under 7-15-4233;
6. Acquisition of infrastructure -deficient areas or portions of areas;
7. Administrative costs associated with the management of the urban renewal area or
targeted economic development district;
8. Assemblage of land for development or redevelopment by private enterprise or public
agencies, including sale, initial leasing, or retention by the local government itself at its
fair value;
9. The compilation and analysis of pertinent information required to adequately determine
the needs of the urban renewal area or targeted economic development district;
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
10. The connection of the urban renewal area or targeted economic development district to
existing infrastructure outside the area or district;
11. The provision of direct assistance to secondary value -adding industries to assist in
meeting their infrastructure and land needs within the area or district; and
12. The acquisition, construction, or improvement of facilities or equipment for reducing,
preventing, abating, or eliminating pollution.
IMPORTANT: Costs to be paid with TIF monies may not be incurred by the applicant
prior to funding approval and the satisfaction of any conditions of such approval unless
specific approval has been granted by City Council. Any expenditure is solely at the risk of
the applicant if the project is not approved.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
• Property owners or their designated representatives whose property is located within the
Core Area are eligible to apply
ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES
Properties must be located inside the West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area TIF boundary and be:
• Commercial
• Mixed -use
• Multi -family properties consisting of four or more units
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applicants must submit a complete written application for each TIF project to the City of
Kalispell Community and Economic Development Department. The TIF application is available
online at http://kalispell.com/community�economic_development/ under `online applications' or
by contacting the Community and Economic Development Department. Completed applications
must be received at least ten business days prior to the URA board meeting at which time the
application will be considered. This is to allow adequate time for a thorough staff review of the
application for presentation to the URA committee. The following procedure has been developed
to expedite the review of TIF funding requests:
1. Initial contact- Contact the Community and Economic Development Department, City of
Kalispell, 201 First Avenue East, Kalispell MT 59901, (406) 758-7713,
kthompson(c�r)kalispell.com to discuss the project and determine eligibility for TIF
assistance.
2. Complete a TIF application with required attachments- The applicant must prepare a TIF
application for each funding request and include all required attachments. The Community
and Economic Development staff will assist the applicant in preparing the application. The
application should address the objectives listed on page 3 of this document.
3. Board review and approval- Upon submittal of all necessary information, the URA will
review the merits of the project and the need for funding. At any point in the review process
the Community and Economic Development Department staff or URA may request more
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
information of the applicant or solicit comment on the project from other public agencies.
Items included in personal financial statements will not be subject to public review,
presentation, or comment by other agencies. The URA will review the project, and issue a
recommendation on the funding request or any part thereof, and any special terms of TIF
assistance to Kalispell City Council. Applicants are encouraged to be present during this
review.
4. City Council review and approval- The Kalispell City Council shall act on applications
within 30 days of URA recommendation, and take formal action to approve or deny the
request. Applicants are encouraged to be present during this review.
5. Development agreement- Upon approval by Kalispell City Council, the City of Kalispell and
the applicant must execute a legally binding Development Agreement which establishes the
terms and conditions of the TIF assistance. Among the terms and conditions, the agreement
shall specify the schedule for the start and completion of the project. The Development
Agreement must be executed within six months of City Council approval; if not completed
by this time the applicant must re -apply for project funding.
IMPORTANT: Other compliance and code requirements may apply. URA
recommendation and City Council approval of funding does not relieve the applicant's
responsibility to secure all necessary permits.
All requests for loan dollars will be subject to approval by the City of Kalispell Revolving
Loan Fund Committee. City of Kalispell Community and Economic Development
Department Revolving Loan Fund Policy and Procedures will apply to all loans. Current
financial statements for each shareholder involved in the project may be required, as well
as documentation of financial capacity. This information will be kept confidential, subject
to challenge in a court of law.
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District Programs:
I. Private Investment:
Loan Programs:
• Fagade Improvement 8
• Rehabilitation/Code Compliance 10
*Loan funding may not exceed $150,000
Grant Programs:
• Historic Fagade Restoration 11
• Technical Assistance 15
Combination Grant and Loan Programs:
• Site Demolition, Cleanup, and Preparation 13
II. Publie/Private Investment Programs:
Grant Programs:
• Shared Utilities 17
• Street Tree Placement 18
• Sidewalk Placement 19
III. Public Infrastructure
• Projects as recommended by City Council 20
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
L PRIVATE INVESTMENT PROGRAMS:
Facade Improvement Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Facade Improvement Program is to encourage voluntary repair in
the West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area TIF District in a way that advances the aesthetic
environment and enhances the pedestrian experience. Additional objectives include expanding
the property tax base, stimulation of business and economic development and retention and
expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
The Facade Improvement Program is a loan based program eligible up to $50,000. Terms and
rates are subject to the decision of the URA and Revolving Loan Fund Committee.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area
• 7-15-4288 (12) The acquisition, construction, or improvement of facilities or equipment
for reducing, preventing, abating, or eliminating pollution
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 2 Goals for Our Future #5. A functional, physical and architectural connection
between the traditional downtown and other surrounding neighborhoods and the Core
Area as appropriate.
Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #10. Develop and fund a loan/grant program that offers
incentives to commercial property owners to improve/upgrade their properties.
a. Develop a revolving loan/grant program using TIF or other funding sources
i. Encourage fagade and exterior amenities improvements
ii. Offer incentives for expansion and mixed use opportunities
iii. Actively advertise and promote this program
Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #14. Amend the city's architectural design standards.
a. Work with the public,. business owners, property owners and the city's
Architectural Review Committee to develop design guidelines tailored for the Core
Area
Design Criteria
URA will review the design for compatibility and appropriateness based upon the project's
architectural design and site plan in the context of adjacent structures, the immediate
neighborhood, and the vision for West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIF District.
Facade improvement projects are subject to City of Kalispell Architectural Review Committee
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
and Building Department approvals as appropriate.
Rehabilitation is limited to building fagades visible from the street. Improvements shall be
scaled to the pedestrian and provide visual interest both day and night. Effort should be made to
facilitate access into the building and to create a building fayade which conveys permanence and
improves the aesthetics of the area. Improvements shall incorporate green building techniques
and energy efficiency measures where feasible. Non -conforming improvements, per municipal
zoning and building codes, shall not be considered. Other criteria may be applied by the URA
depending on the specifics of the application and the URA's determination of the priorities for
redevelopment within the district.
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Projects consisting of permanent materials such as stone, brick, or heavy gauge metal
(Materials with a limited life span such as EFIS (synthetic stucco) are generally not eligible)
• Projects increasing the energy efficiency of the building
• Projects using recycled, renewable and otherwise green material
• Projects enhancing the pedestrian environment
• Projects improving the aesthetics of the district
• Projects with architectural detailing addressing pedestrian scale
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Interior rehabilitation
• Roof and re -roofing unless the roof is a prominent fagade element which is visible from the
street or sidewalk
• Structural foundations
• Security bars
• New construction or additions
• Site improvements in the public right-of-way including sidewalks, curb, and gutter, and
planters
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
10
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Rehabilitation/Code Compliance Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Rehabilitation/Code Compliance Program is to improve the
project's interior design and structure, and ensure the building is in compliance with City code.
Additional objectives include expanding the property tax base, stimulation of business and
economic development and retention and expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
The Rehabilitation/Code Compliance Program is a loan based program eligible up to $50,000.
Terms and rates are subject to the decision of the URA and Revolving Loan Fund Committee.
Eligible projects are subject to City of Kalispell Architectural Review Committee and Building
Department approvals as appropriate. The URA will review the project for compatibility and
appropriateness based on the vision for the West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIF District.
Per the Montana Code Annotated 2013, section 7-15-4206 (17): "Rehabilitation" may include
the restoration and renewal of a blighted area or portion of the area in accordance with an urban
renewal plan by:
(i) Carrying out plans for a program of voluntary or compulsory repair and rehabilitation
of buildings or other improvements...
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area.
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #10. Develop and fund a loan/grant program that offers
incentives to commercial property owners to improve/upgrade their properties.
a. Develop a revolving loan/grant program using TIF or other funding sources
iv. Encourage fagade and exterior amenities improvements
v. Offer incentives for expansion and mixed use opportunities
vi. Actively advertise and promote this program
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Projects addressing ADA Compliance
• Projects addressing and eliminating specific code violations and conditions that could be
injurious to the public's health, safety, and welfare
Projects stimulating economic and business developments by providing safe
environments for workers, businesses and the public
Improvement to the building's interior and /or exterior that address repair and
rehabilitation
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Working capital
• Product for sale
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
11
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Historic Facade Restoration Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Historic Fagade Restoration Program is to encourage voluntary
repair and rehabilitation of commercial, mixed -use and multi -family property (minimum of 4
units) in the West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area TIF District in a way that advances the
aesthetic environment and enhances the pedestrian experience. Additional objectives include
expanding the property tax base, stimulation of business and economic development and
retention, and expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
Historic fagade restoration projects may be eligible for a 50% matching grant up to $50,000.
Some projects may also qualify for additional funding under the Fagade Improvement Loan
Program. To qualify under the historic fagade restoration program, buildings must either be
individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, in a designated historic district, or
at least 50 years old.
Historic photographs of Kalispell and its Core Area store fronts may be available and should be
used when determining the original character of a building design. Applicants should make a
reasonable effort to provide historic images of the building. If no image is available the applicant
should provide research on materials and building styles consistent with the construction date of
the building or other appropriate time period. Materials and workmanship should accurately
replicate the historic fagade.
Rehabilitation is limited to building facades visible from the street. Improvements shall be
scaled to the pedestrian and provide visual interest both day and night. Effort should be made to
facilitate access into the building and to create a building fagade which conveys permanence and
improves the aesthetics of the area. Improvements shall incorporate green building techniques
and energy efficiency measures where feasible. Non -conforming improvements, per municipal
zoning and building codes, shall not be considered.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4233 (i) to improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 2 Goals for Our Future #5. A functional, physical and architectural connection
between the traditional downtown and other surrounding neighborhoods and the Core
Area as appropriate.
• Chapter 4 Vision & Goals 410. Develop and fund a loan/grant program that offers
incentives to commercial property owners to improve/upgrade their properties.
a. Develop a revolving loan/grant program using TIF or other funding sources
i. Encourage fagade and exterior amenities improvements
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
12
ii. Offer incentives for expansion and mixed use opportunities
Design Criteria
The URA will review the design for compatibility and appropriateness based upon the project's
architectural design, historic appearance, and site plan in the context of adjacent structures, the
immediate neighborhood, and the vision for the West Side Urban Renewal- Core Area TIF
District.
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Projects that preserve the storefront's character defining elements such as: display
windows, transom, kickplate, entry, upper -story windows, and cornice molding
• Projects that avoid use of materials that were unavailable when the storefront was
constructed (vinyl, aluminum siding, mirrored/tinted glass, artificial stone, and brick
veneer) and use paint colors based on the buildings historical appearance
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Interior rehabilitation
• Roof and re -roofing unless the roof is a prominent historic facade element which is
visible from the street or sidewalk
• Structural foundations
• Security bars
• New construction or additions
• Site improvements in the public right-of-way including sidewalks, curb, and gutter, and
planters
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
13
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Site Demolition, Cleanup, And Preparation Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Site Demolition/Preparation/Cleanup Program is to prepare sites for
redevelopment. Additional objectives include expanding the property tax base, stimulation of
business and economic development and retention and expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
Site Demolition/Preparation/Cleanup projects may be eligible for loan funds, and/or a 50%
matching grant up to $50,000. Approved projects must be fully prepped for redevelopment,
including removing all demolition materials and attractive nuisances, leveling the site, capping
all utilities, stabilizing the site from wind and erosion, and securing the site as necessary.
Eligible projects must first complete a Phase I and/or Phase II environmental site assessment
(ESA) as necessary on the site to characterize the site. Phase I and Phase Il ESA's may be done
at the property owner's expense, under the City of Kalispell Brownfields Program as funds are
available, or as a Core Area TIF grant. In the event that environmental remediation is necessary
at the site for reuse, a Brownfields clean-up loan or TIF loan may be pursued. Phase II
environmental site assessments may eligible for a 50% matching grant, up to $50,000.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4288 (2) Demolition and removal of structures
• 7-15-4288 (5) Costs incurred in connection with the redevelopment activities allowed
under 7-15-4233
• 7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area
• 7-15-4288 (12) The acquisition, construction, or improvement of facilities or equipment
for reducing, preventing, abating, or eliminating pollution
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #9. Remove/clear all vacant or blighted properties in the Core
Area for the key purpose of redevelopment.
a. Develop a financial assistance program to help property owners clear vacant and
hazardous buildings and assist the property owner to prepare a site for
redevelopment (scrap and bake program).
Chapter 4 Vision & Goals # 8. A viable Brownfield program in the Core Area.
a. Target the Core Area as a priority Brownfield area.
b. Maintain a funding pool of grant and loan funds at the city level to address
Brownfield issues.
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
14
c. Advocate for the clearance of existing identified Brownfield sites including UST
and LUST sites.
i. Proactively contact those property owners on a regular basis offering
available services to mitigate the issues.
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Phase I and Phase 11 environmental site assessments
• Projects that are fully prepped for redevelopment, including removing all demolition
materials and attractive nuisances
• Projects leveling the site, capping all utilities, stabilizing the site from wind and erosion,
and securing the site as necessary
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Construction or reconstruction of the public utilities serving the site
• Marketing and/or sale of building site or building
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
15
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Technical Assistance Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Technical Assistance Program is to support the applicant with
technical assistance during the preliminary phases of site improvement projects within the
Westside Urban Renewal Plan- Core Area TIF. Additional objectives include expanding the
property tax base, stimulation of business and economic development and retention and
expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
The Technical Assistance Program is a grant based program. Eligible applicants may receive up
to $5,000.
Technical Assistance applicants must submit the biography, resume, and licensing certificate as
appropriate for the firm conducting the technical assistance.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area
7-15-4233 (m) To prepare plans for carrying out a program of voluntary or compulsory
repair and rehabilitation of buildings and improvements
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 2 Goals for Our Future #5. A functional, physical and architectural connection
between the traditional downtown and other surrounding neighborhoods and the Core
Area as appropriate.
• Chapter 2 Goals for Our Future # 8. New development and redevelopment that
incorporates parks, landscaped boulevards, open spaces for casual public interaction and
landscaping that compliments architecture and the neighborhood to encourage active use
of the built environment.
• Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #10. Develop and fund a loan/grant program that offers
incentives to commercial property owners to improve/upgrade their properties.
a. Develop a revolving loan/grant program using TIF or other funding sources
i. Encourage fagade and exterior amenities improvements
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Architectural Design
• Engineering
• Landscape Design
• Fagade design
• Preliminary development review assistance
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
16
• Restoration guidance
• Renovation/reuse study
• Preliminary cost estimates
• Code analysis
• Landscape/hardscape design
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Demolition
• Construction
• Permits, building, and appraisal fees
• Marketing and/or feasibility studies
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
17
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
IL PUBLIC/PRIVATE INVESTMENT GRANT PROGRAMS:
Shared Utilities Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Shared Utilities Program is to improve shared public services such
as water, sewer, sidewalks, parking, and traffic circulation to the West Side Urban Renewal -
Core Area TIF District.
Guidelines
Shared Utilities projects may be eligible for a 50% matching grant up to $50,000. All grant
dollars are reimbursable upon completion of the approved project expenses. Project must be
completed within one year of execution of the Development Agreement. Maintenance
obligations are that of the property owner.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4288 (4)-The acquisition, construction, and improvement of public improvements or
infrastructure, including streets, roads, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, pedestrian malls, alleys,
parking lots and off-street parking facilities, sewers, sewer lines, sewage treatment
facilities, storm sewers, waterlines, waterways, water treatment facilities, natural gas
lines, electrical lines, telecommunications lines, rail lines, rail spurs, bridges, publicly
owned buildings, and any public improvements authorized by Title 7, chapter 12, parts 41
through 45; Title 7, chapter 13, parts 42 and 43; and Title 7, chapter 14, part 47, and
items of personal property to be used in connection with improvements for which the
foregoing costs may be incurred
• 7-75-4288 (10)- The connection of the urban renewal area or targeted economic
development district to existing infrastructure outside the area or district
Core Area Plan Goals:
• Chapter 4 Vision & Goals #10. Develop and fund a loan/grant program that offers
incentives to commercial property owners to improve/upgrade their properties.
Examples of Eligible Activities
• Projects benefiting more than one business
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Impact Fees
• Permit Fees
• Utilities benefiting only the applicant's property
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
18
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Street Tree Placement Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Street Tree Placement Program is to encourage the placement of
street trees through the City of Kalispell Tree Placement and Maintenance Program per City
Council Ordinance 1086.
Guidelines
Street Tree Placement Program projects may be eligible for a 50150 matching grant up to $5,000.
Eligible applicants will work with the City of Kalispell Parks and Recreation Department's Tree
Placement and Maintenance Program.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area.
Core Area Plan Goals:
Chapter 2 Goals for Our Future # 8. New development and redevelopment that
incorporates parks, landscaped boulevards, open spaces for casual public interaction and
landscaping that compliments architecture and the neighborhood to encourage active use
of the built environment.
Examples of Eligible Activities
• New street tree placement
• Irrigation systems limited to the life of the tree
Ineligible Activities
• Trees being placed outside the public right-of-way
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
19
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
Sidewalk Placement Program
Objectives
The primary objective of the Sidewalk Placement Program is to encourage development, and
provide safe pedestrian navigation from business to business in the West Side Core Area TIF
District. Additional objectives include expanding the property tax base, stimulation of business
and economic development and retention and expansion of employment in the district.
Guidelines
Sidewalk Placement Program projects may be eligible for a 50% matching grant up to $5,000.
Eligible applicants will work with the City of Kalispell Public Works Department.
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4288 (5) Costs incurred in connection with the redevelopment activities allowed
under 7-15-4233.
7-15-4233 (i) To improve, clear, or prepare for redevelopment any real or personal
property in an urban renewal area.
Core Area Plan Goals:
• Chapter 4 Vision & Goals # 11. Improve pedestrian and bike access throughout the Core
Area.
a. Target a program to replace existing walks in deteriorated condition.
i. Establish a dedicated funding source for sidewalk replacement.
ii. Share cost 50-50 between abutting property owner and City.
iii. Identify key routes where the public may need to take a greater share to
ensure complete routes are completed.
Example of Eligible Activities
• Sidewalk placement in the public right-of-way
• Handicap ramps at intersections
Examples of Ineligible Activities
• Replacement of existing sidewalks
• Sidewalks located in alleyways
• Curb or gutter expenses
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014
20
West Side Urban Renewal -Core Area Tax Increment Financing District
Policies, Procedures, and Programs
III. PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAMS:
Public Infrastructure Objectives:
As recommended by City Council
Costs incurred in connection with redevelopment activities allowed under Montana State Law
• 7-15-4288 (4)-The acquisition, construction, and improvement of public improvements or
infrastructure, including streets, roads, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, pedestrian malls, alleys,
parking lots and off-street parking facilities, sewers, sewer lines, sewage treatment
facilities, storm sewers, waterlines, waterways, water treatment facilities, natural gas
lines, electrical lines, telecommunications lines, rail lines, rail spurs, bridges, publicly
owned buildings, and any public improvements authorized by Title 7, chapter 12, parts 41
through 45; Title 7, chapter 13, parts 42 and 43; and Title 7, chapter 14, part 47, and
items of personal property to be used in connection with improvements for which the
foregoing costs may be incurred
• 7-75-4288 (10)- The connection of the urban renewal area or targeted economic
development district to existing infrastructure outside the area or district
Core Area Goals:
• See Chapter 4 of the Core Area Plan, Vision & Goals: First Steps
Approved by Urban Renewal Agency 11812014