ARIZONA DAILY STAR: Tues. Feb. 10, 2009

Suspension of impact fees must be targeted

Our view: Proposed job-creation plan laudable, but needs refinement

The Tucson City Council will consider a proposal for a one-year suspension of all residential and commercial impact fees, except those that support public safety, at its meeting today. The idea is to jumpstart the building industry by reducing its costs, put people back to work and give builders an incentive to take on infill projects in the city, according to the sponsor, Councilman Rodney Glassman, who represents the East Side's Ward 2.

We hope these laudable goals are realized and we applaud Glassman for offering a job-creation idea. However, we have some reservations about such a sweeping proposal. Specifically, we're concerned a blanket citywide impact-fee suspension might increase urban sprawl and add vacant new homes to a glutted housing market.

Councilwoman Shirley Scott, from Southeastern Ward 4, has been working with other councilmembers on a detailed plan involving impact fees. We hope the council will postpone final action until Scott's proposal is complete and the two can be compared and the best ideas brought forward.

FULL OPINION: http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/279484