According to the Kane County Chronicle, Geneva City Council approved a new tax increment financing (TIF) district on the city's east side, sparking debate among city officials. 

The 297-acre Southeast Master Plan Redevelopment Area marks the city’s fourth TIF district. The area lies east of Kirk Road between Route 38 and Fabyan Parkway.

The council's decision passed despite three officials voting against it. 

Supporters argued that the TIF will facilitate crucial developments, including the extension of Kautz Road, providing improved access to Interstate 88 for trucks. Proponents also believe this will enhance the local tax base and foster economic growth in an area long slated for industrial development.

Some alderpersons questioned whether the area truly met the legal criteria for TIF designation, particularly regarding flood-prone conditions. Critics also raised concerns about off-the-record conversations as well as a letter challenging the legality of the TIF approval from the Citizen Advocacy Center in Elmhurst.

The disagreement led to tense exchanges among some council members before the measure was ultimately passed.

This new TIF district aims to encourage development in an area deemed too costly for private investment alone. 

Read the full Kane County Chronicle article (there may be a paywall for non-subscribers).

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