Pocono News Section

Commissioners Approve KOZ for Eureka Place

Commissioners Approve KOZ for Eureka Place - Thursday, April 30, 2009 at 5:40PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Thursday, Apr 30, 2009 @ 05:40pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

It was a giant step forward Thursday for a planned multi-million dollar hotel and conference center in Williamsport.

The proposed development would be located at the site of the former Eureka Paper facility.

Williamsport resident Dave Abernathy said, “A development of this size is so exciting, not to be down here would be a crime. Most communities would give their right arm for this opportunity.”

That was the message from dozens of people who rallied Thursday morning in support of the Eureka Place project.

The project would revitalize nine acres of blighted property, and be funded mainly by private developers.

Those developers were seeking approval for Keystone Opportunity Zone status from the Lycoming County commissioners.

K. O.Z. properties are tax exempt for 10 years. The developers have offered to make other payments in lieu of taxes.

Commissioners approved the K. O.Z. designation with a unanimous vote, but they say that decision still comes with concerns over the impact this project could have on the area.

Commissioner Jeff Wheeland noted, “Our concerns were primarily the three taxing entities and the result of the development and impact, the cause and effect on the taxpayers of Lycoming County.”

Commissioners also expressed concern that the K. O.Z. designation was meant for manufacturing-type facilities, rather than retail-based projects.

Wheeland explained, “Family sustaining jobs attract retail, retail does not attract industry. It just doesn’t work that way.”

Those who rallied for the Eureka Place development believe it will go a long way toward improving downtown Williamsport.

Rally organizer Tony Mussare said, “If we provided jobs, if we brought that economic development here, Williamsport would prosper again. We’d have a vibrant downtown area for people to set up shops. That’s what it’s all about.”

The developers have already received K. O.Z. approval from the school district and city. Next they will take their proposal to state officials at the Department of Community and Economic Development.