District 204, Aurora Reach Agreement Over Route 59 Incentives

AURORA, IL — The city of Aurora and Indian Prairie School District 204 have reached an agreement regarding the economic development incentives linked to upcoming work on Route 59. The inter-governmental agreement impacts the use of tax increment financing (TIF) incentives and related issues tied to the redevelopment of Route 59.

According to a news release from District 204, some of the agreement's guidelines include stipulations that:

• TIF incentives will not be utilized as the first and only source of development incentives.
• TIF districts within the designated area will only last for 15 years, as opposed to the standard 23 years.
• Taxes generated from development within a TIF district on property that generates students will be considered surplus.
• District 204 agrees not to oppose such a TIF district during the joint review board, and also agrees not to challenge the eligibility of a TIF district in court.

In a statement, District 204 Superintendent Dr. Karen Sullivan said the school district is "appreciative of its partnership with Aurora." Sullivan went on to say, "We have a strong agreement that supports the economic development of the city while providing the necessary resources to educate our students."

Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin echoed Sullivan's sentiments, saying, "Aurora is in the midst of a redevelopment renaissance and the Route 59 Corridor is a top priority for the City and a key focal point for developers. Education is also a top priority for my administration, and we want to do what is best for the City and schools in a collaborative way. This agreement with District 204 does just that and helps to strengthen our community."

The issue of how the Route 59 redevelopments and TIF districts would affect District 204 has been a sticking point in the past. In March 2019, district officials raised concerns about a TIF district for a senior housing site along the Route 59 corridor near the intersection of 75th Street and Ogden Avenue.

Related: District 204 Raises Concerns About Route 59 Corridor Plans

They also expressed concerns that other housing developments and TIF districts could increase the district's student population while limiting its tax revenue.