CHANGE MY LOCATION
Tax credit seen as boon to Route 140
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BALTIMORE (Map, News) - Merchants along Route 140 in Finksburg who fix up their businesses could cut their taxes by up to 75 percent,
under a county proposal.
The proposed “Gateway tax credit” would give the five-year tax credits to roadside businesses that invest more than 25 percent of their properties’ value in improvements to storefronts, lighting, sidewalks or pedestrian plazas.
“We wanted to look at a place that’s most problematic for siting new businesses,” said Commissioner Dean Minnich. “Route 140 is, for the most part, our front door... It’s the first impression of Carroll County most people get.”
The targeted area, which runs from the Baltimore County line north to Suffolk Road and Sandymount Park, is a hodgepodge of strip malls, gas stations, houses and industry.
The tax credit, proposed by the county Department of Economic Development, would foster a more uniform look, Minnich said.
“We’re looking to take it to something with a little more consideration for consistency, a more welcoming appearance,” he said.
Commissioner Mike Zimmer said the Finksburg Gateway would be a test area for the new tax credits, passed by the General Assembly last year. If it works out, other areas could be considered.
“It seemed sensible to start somewhere, and Route 140 made the most sense,” Zimmer said.
County Attorney Kimberly Millender said a review board would be established to take responsibility for evaluating business applications and determining if a proposed project constitutes an “improvement” to the look and quality of the corridor, and whether the project deserves a tax credit.
msantoni@baltimoreexaminer.com
Comments from Examiner Readers
7:53 AM MST on Wed., Dec. 5, 2007 re: "County eyes property tax increase to plug budget gap"
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5:38 AM MST on Wed., Dec. 5, 2007
re: "County eyes property tax increase to plug budget gap"
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Don said:
When was the last time you checked the amount of your Federal taxes????
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Examiner Reader said:
Here it comes, folks. Oh, well, those of you who voted for O'Malley are getting what you deserve. Remember, when you vote for a demorat, you vote for high taxes. I hate rats.
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