Lawmakers in Idaho have proposed a bill that seeks to limit urban renewal district abuses.
"The House Revenue and Taxation Committee voted today to introduce draft legislation that would prevent urban renewal districts from gerrymandering. The proposed legislation would prevent "shoestring" additions to urban renewal districts, said Rep. Phil Hart, R-Athol."
"A shoestring addition refers to an urban renewal district that expands its borders to pick up new areas that may not be blighted at all, often down major arterials, to collect the tax increment from big new developments."
"When urban renewal districts are formed, the property taxes the city and county receive within the district's boundaries are capped at that year's level. But property values in the district continue to grow. The property tax cities and counties collect on growth within the district is the tax increment, which goes to the urban renewal district."
FULL STORY: Legislation aims to curb urban renewal abuses

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.

Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.

LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
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