New TIF expected in downtown La Crosse

This is 17th TIF district has created in last 30 years

More development expected in downtown La Crosse through the creation of yet another tax incremental finance (TIF) district.

The TIFs have been controversial – special taxing districts which dedicate property taxes from new development to pay off money borrowed for city improvements.

But that development doesn’t happen just in the taxing districts themselves, argues city council finance committee chair, Audrey Kader. She says growth occurs in the areas that surround the places targeted by the TIF.

This will be the 17th such district created in the city over the last 30 years or so. Four have been retired and are now providing tax revenue to all local governments.

The city council is expected to approve the new downtown TIF during special meetings in city hall this week. Some of the proceeds will go towards building a new parking ramp for the Lot C project.