Another key element of the huge Micron chip manufacturer project comes November 17 when Onondaga County development officials vote to finalize a package of incentives. Public sentiment is split over the size and particulars of tax breaks Micron should get to help build the project here.
At a recent public hearing, people raised concerns for county leaders to take into account when determining details of a PILOT, payment in lieu of taxes, agreement.
Khadeejah Ahmad with the group Jobs to Move America, said she supports the employment growth. But shared concerns that local population growth will burden communities.
“This will increase school populations, greater traffic on roadways, more need for emergency services, hospitals, more medical services, larger demands for electricity, utilities, water and food,” Ahmad said. “Micron has a responsibility to reinvest in the community.”
The incentives being considered include waving all sales tax on construction materials and a PILOT agreement that would have Micron pay a fraction of property taxes over a 49-year period.
The PILOT payments would go to municipalities and schools. But Don Keegan of North Syracuse Schools said impacts in classrooms need to be considered.
“Our district is deeply committed to preparing students for success in college and careers, life after graduation. And doing this requires investments in programs, technology and facilities to ensure that our students gain the skills they need to be successful in today’s rapidly evolving economy. This financial arrangement doesn’t provide additional resources to address those challenges,” Keegan warned.
He pointed out that the Micron payments to districts do not aid the schools; they only slightly reduce the tax burdens on taxpayers.
Other members of the public seek more accountability in any incentive agreement. John Przepiora with Greening USA would like to see Micron be bound by a community benefits agreement “that protects the people of Onondaga County.” He added this and an effective joint citizen and expert project oversight, community engagement and environmental management council” should also be part of an agreement, or the PILOT should be paused.
Some residents and civic groups said they want to make sure Micron produces the jobs and other benefits expected, as well as attends to environmental and other impacts.
Supporters of the project, such as Clay resident Jim Nash, pointed out the positive impact from thousands of people that will move to the area.
“They’re going to be paying property taxes, real estate another types of taxes, (including increased) sales taxes.” Said Nash. “I think that we’ve got to consider that. Looking at it that way, I look upon Micron as the goose that lays the golden eggs.”
County and town officials finalizing the incentives say they weigh each comment. A final vote on the tax agreement is scheduled for November 17th.
