A new report from PIRG identifies problems in the practice of TIFs (tax-increment financing) and suggests ideas for reform.
From the report's executive summary:
"Tax-increment financing (TIF) has been a widely used tool for municipalities seeking private investment. TIF allows cities and towns to borrow against an area's future tax revenues in order to invest in immediate projects or encourage present development. When used properly, TIF can promote enduring growth and stronger communities for blighted neighborhoods; but TIF can also end up wasting taxpayer resources or channeling money to politically favored special interests.
This report lays out problems with tax-increment financing and recommends a series of reforms focused on added transparency and accountability."
Thanks to Phineas Baxandall
Read the full story: Tax-Increment Financing: The Need for Increased Transparency and Accountability in Local Economic Development Subsidies
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Rutgers University, Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy
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University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS)
Hunter College, City University of New York (CUNY)
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