Supervisors take next step in tax rebate for Sukup

Over recent weeks, the Worth County supervisors proceeded with the next steps to provide a tax incentive to allow a developer to qualify for state funds.
In September of last year, the board of supervisors was approached with word that Sukup Manufacturing planned to expand in the Manly Logistics Park, north of Manly.
The company sought funding through the Iowa Economic Development Authority's High Quality Jobs (HQJ) program, which provides tax benefits for companies that undertake projects that include adding jobs.
To qualify, Sukup had to show that a local government was also lending its own financial support.
The supervisors approved proceeding with an urban revitalization plan in the area of the Manly Logistics Park and land nearby, where Sukup plans to expand.
Through the plan, the company will be able to apply for county tax exemptions on the amount of increased tax value, of up to 100% for three years or a sliding scale of exemptions over 10 years. A rough estimate of the increase in taxes discussed at previous meetings was about $10,000 per year.
The show of local financial support from the County was a necessity for Sukup to qualify for $141,984 in investment tax credits, and more than $23,000 in sales, service and use tax refunds. According to IEDA documents, Sukup planned to proceed with a project, estimated at $4.7 million,  that would create 10 jobs that pay $19.09 per hour.
At recent meetings, the supervisors proceeded with two of the final pieces that would allow them to provide tax rebates.
A resolution adopting the urban revitalization plan was passed.
The supervisors also held readings at three meetings and approved an ordinance designating the land where developers can apply for tax rebates. The area includes the area already owned by Sukup and other properties north of the Manly Logistics Park, where Sukup plans to build.
Three readings were required for the ordinance to pass. Normally, as the process has seen no opposition at meetings, the supervisors may have considered waiving the second and third reading, but that would require action by a full board of three supervisors. The District 3 seat remained vacant through all three readings.
With the ordinance passed, Sukup can submit its application for the County tax incentive.