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Kingston City Council Considers Tax Rebates for Brownfield Redevelopment

The Kingston, Ontario city council is preparing to evaluate a proposal that could provide up to $4.1 million in tax rebates aimed at revitalizing a long-uncultivated industrial site located at 0 Cataraqui Street.

This property, which is under the ownership of Inner Harbour Development LP, has a history marked by industrial and transportation activities. Such uses have resulted in significant soil and groundwater contamination, necessitating remedial efforts before any redevelopment can take place.

The redevelopment plan for this area includes the construction of a six-storey residential building that aims to offer 75 apartment units, potentially enhancing the local housing market.

Environmental Remediation Requirements

Before the project can advance, environmental cleanup is critical, along with the registration of a record of site condition that confirms the site meets safety and environmental regulations.

Currently, the site contributes approximately $27,400 annually in municipal and educational taxes. However, once the redevelopment is completed, it is estimated to yield at least $182,600 in annual tax revenue.

Under the suggested arrangement, developers would receive an 80 per cent rebate on the increased tax revenue generated by the redevelopment for a ten-year span, with the total rebate capped at $4.1 million.

City staff emphasized that the initiative aligns with Kingston’s objectives of enhancing housing affordability and making better use of underutilized properties. The council is slated to vote on this motion, which includes the relevant bylaws and a brownfield site agreement with the developer, during their upcoming meeting on Tuesday.

This development reflects broader trends in urban planning, where cities are increasingly focusing on the rehabilitation of neglected sites to promote sustainable growth and address housing shortages.

Source
globalnews.ca