Communities lose more than they gain from TIFs
“Tax increment financing is sold by supporters as the closest thing to a free lunch mankind ever invented. We differ. Tax increment financing districts are downright dangerous. Anytime someone promises a free lunch, you should…
Bell seeks transparency in eminent domain
“If Dominion gets the permit needed to build a $5 billion natural gas pipeline, Virginia citizens should have access to the information the company gathers when it takes private land through forced sales, a local…
Oklahoma City Council green-lights revitalization plan
“The city council agreed Tuesday on a proposal to invest $45 million to revitalize a blighted commercial corridor in northeast Oklahoma City. The vote for the Northeast Renaissance project was unanimous. In a separate vote,…
Taking on Dominion
“Let the record show Del. Dickie Bell, R-Staunton, is taking on Dominion Transmissions. We are not sure this has ever happened before in Virginia’s General Assembly. Bell has introduced House Bill 1696, which makes any…
Audit cites ‘inadequate oversight’ in state economic development program
“A report released Tuesday by the Utah state auditor calls for more statute clarity, consistent administration and transparency in a corporate incentives program through the Governor’s Office of Economic Development. The Corporate Recruitment and Incentives…
Editorial: New legislation doesn’t address urban renewal fairness
“With the arrival of July, a whole slate of new laws in the Colorado General Assembly have taken effect. Laws affecting the recreational marijuana industry, Internet postings and the statute of limitations for vehicular homicides…