MASON CITY – NorthIowaToday.com has learned that Councilman Max Weaver has asked City Administrator Brent Trout to look into the possibility of amending the 16% tax assessment levied against the businesses along the Streetscape project area in downtown Mason City.
Apparently, the Streetscape project will not be completed this fall as originally planned. Some business owners are feeling the effects of the construction while others are doing just fine. Jeff Edwards, who owns Kush Spa with his wife Joy, told NorthIowaToday.com “We are doing fine so far, and we support the project. However, we could be affected over the winter months.”
In a conversation with Mr. Weaver this evening, he stated “Some of the business owners in the Streetscape area have told me their revenues are down 40-60%. In light of the way things are going with the Federal Ave. Streetscape project, it could be months away from completion. It’s really no fault of anyone’s. The project is creating a real burden for the businesses affected by the project. I’m sure the assessment was not put in place to put people out of business and I’m sure I can speak for the rest of the Council as they also hear from business owners. That was never our intention. Since I spoke with Mr. Trout earlier today, he has informed me that we have the potential to amend the resolution to a lower tax assessment.”
Mr. Weaver stated that he intends to take this issue up with the Council in the near future. “We need to receive input from all parties involved, including City staff,” he said.
