Monticello considers economic incentives

by David Boyle
Economic development was the discussion at the June 10 meeting of the Monticello City Council.
A business development plan has been proposed to further growth within the city. The rough draft was approved at the meeting with details of the plan to be worked out in weeks to come.
The business development plan is two-fold, the first to provide incentives for businesses to improve their businesses and properties, and the second to create jobs.
Capital improvement projects, such as buying new equipment or sprucing up buildings, will receive sales and property tax breaks, as well as having business fees waived.
Job creation will also be rewarded with tax incentives.
City officials hope that providing these incentives will entice businesses to come to Monticello and encourage improvements for businesses that are already established.
In addition to economic growth, the city is offering incentives this summer for business and homeowners on Center and Main Street who complete a beautification checklist.
Although there was talk of a councilmember coming by and approving each project, the city council decided that, instead, those who complete the application and required checklist will be eligible. Those interested can visit the Monticello City office for more details.
Additionally, the council discussed the potential for development of a new subdivision adjacent to the Monticello LDS Temple.
Paul Sondregger intends to build a house north of the temple. Sondregger told the city that he would build the gravel road to his home according to required specifications and would then deed the right of way to the city.
In return, the city would pick up the trash at the end of the road, as well as plow snow. The city council will approve the plan on the condition that residents who live on the road will pay for any future pavement of the road.
The city council knew this future development could be decades away, but still wanted to make sure that a future city council is not stuck with the cost of paving a city road.
The details could possibly be attached to the deed of the land.
Regardless, the city approved the plan with the stipulation that the future development of the road will not be paid by the city.