through a mix of municipal improvements, property owner reinvestment, and targeted incentives. That collaborative approach has been essential to building momentum. According to Economic Development Director Denise Morris, nearly every successful downtown renovation has benefited from the city’s Property Enhancement Improvement Grant or related incentive programs. Through a Neighborhood Empowerment Zone and a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, Pilot Point can offer tools such as property tax abatements, sales tax rebates, permit assistance, and reinvestment of ad valorem taxes back into the district. Equally important has been clarity.Two years ago, the city completed a full overhaul of its historic design guidelines, creating a clear and accessible roadmap for developers and property owners. Separate standards now exist for truly historic structures and for newer construction within the historic district, eliminating ambiguity and streamlining approvals. Photo Credit: City of Pilot Point. 50 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx