The City of Grants Pass Public Works Department is seeking additional input from residents regarding proposed increases to city utility System Development Charges. An additional public hearing on the topic will be conducted at City Hall 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4.
Those wishing to submit written comments can mail them to City Hall, 101 NW “A” St., Grants Pass, OR, 97526, or email them directly to Public Works Director Jason Canady: jcanady@grantspassoregon.gov.
All written comments must be received by 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3.
Details about a recent SDC study conducted by city staff can be accessed from the city’s website at: https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/319/Utility-System-Development-Charge-Rate-S
SDCs are a one-time charge to new or redeveloping properties. The SDC is a share of the cost of the city's utility, transportation and parks systems proportional to the impact each property will have on each system. Properties which are already developed do not pay SDCs unless they "redevelop" and consume additional capacity.
The impact fees are used for capital only, in their calculation and in their use. They include consideration of both future and existing cost components for general facilities. They are paid at the time of development and are intended to recover a fair share of the cost of existing and planned facilities that provide capacity to serve future growth.
The Grants Pass City Council has indicated their intention to levy only a portion of charges allowed under the state laws providing for SDC establishment and increase. The goal is to recognize the need to invest in critical infrastructure projects while not detrimentally affecting the building and business communities.
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