NEWBERRY — Newberry City Council has approved a first reading to establish an economic development incentive program. This economic development tool, available to cities, is a special tax assessment commonly referred to as the Bailey Bill.
“It provides an economic incentive for people who are developing residential or commercial properties that are at least 50 years old or are in a historic district,” said Mayor Foster Senn.
Historic designations, in the bill, are based on one of three factors. The property is listed in the national registry of historic places, the property is designated as a historic property by the City Council and is at least 50 years old or the property is at least 50 years old and is located in a historic district designated by the city, within the geographical area of the city.
The bill allows local governments to offer a property tax abatement to encourage the rehabilitation of historic properties for a period of no more than 20 years. City Council chose to make it no more than 10 years.
This allows the property owner to avoid local property tax payments on the increased value resulting from eligible renovations. The abated value is the difference between fair market value of the building at the start of renovation and the fair market value of the building after renovations.
The first reading was approved after Councilman Thomas Boyd made a motion and Councilman Lemont Glasgow seconded.
In other business, Jess Folk was recognized by City Council for completing an eight week Municipal Lineman Training Program that was conducted by SCE&G. SCE&G is contracted through the Municipal Association to provide this training to the South Carolina Association of Municipal Power Systems (SCAMPS) members.
Folk completed one week of training each spring and one week each fall over a four year period. During his time between training sessions, he performed on the job training by serving as an apprentice to a journeyman lineman.
Other business
• The following city employees were recognized for their years of service, Collin Shealy (five years), Brad Rikard (15 years), Niele Andrews (20 years) and Michael Kennedy (20 years).
• Council tabled a request to allow alcohol in designated event areas of the Groove N’ Brewfest for Saturday, April 7. The City will hold a special meeting next Tuesday at noon to hear further information on street closings for the event.
• Council approved a first reading of an ordinance to rezone 2516 Kinard Street from R-8 Residential to OC – Office Commercial. It is the intent of White Oak Corporation to create an office space on the property with additional parking.