So, a promising development in Irondequoit has stalled. It’s perfectly reasonable — indeed, even a good thing — for the Town Board to look skeptically at a long PILOT agreement. But the only logical way to do so is lay out the expected tax revenue, and benefits to the town, if the development goes forward with a PILOT vs. the revenues and benefits if the development doesn’t happen.
In this case, what are the revenues with the PILOT vs. what are the revenues for creaky buildings and a vacant lot? Why can’t the board lay out the numbers, and openly discuss any other possible plans for that area? But we don’t get a straightforward comparison like that in public meetings. Instead, we hear talk of people talking to Town Board members in private. Maybe there are legitimate concerns, but does anyone believe these off-the-record discussions have a good track record for Irondequoit?
Let’s put this matter up for a public vote by holding a referendum, where everyone can make their arguments in the sunlight.
RICK THOMPSON
Irondequoit
So, a promising development in Irondequoit has stalled. It’s perfectly reasonable — indeed, even a good thing — for the Town Board to look skeptically at a long PILOT agreement. But the only logical way to do so is lay out the expected tax revenue, and benefits to the town, if the development goes forward with a PILOT vs. the revenues and benefits if the development doesn’t happen.
In this case, what are the revenues with the PILOT vs. what are the revenues for creaky buildings and a vacant lot? Why can’t the board lay out the numbers, and openly discuss any other possible plans for that area? But we don’t get a straightforward comparison like that in public meetings. Instead, we hear talk of people talking to Town Board members in private. Maybe there are legitimate concerns, but does anyone believe these off-the-record discussions have a good track record for Irondequoit?
Let’s put this matter up for a public vote by holding a referendum, where everyone can make their arguments in the sunlight.
RICK THOMPSON
Irondequoit
