Waterfront Working Group
Regular MeetingPortland, ME · March 21, 2019
Agenda
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting Agenda
March 21, 2019
Room 24, City Hall
3:00pm to 5:00pm
*************************************
1. Welcome and Introductions: Jon Jennings, City Manager, Chair
2. Review Meeting Notes from Meeting 5, 3719
a. Meeting Notes for 372019
3. Waterfront Working Group Memo for Meeting 6
a. Memo for Meeting 6
4. Working Group discussion of TIF Funding Priorities
Working Group members are asked to review the previously provided TIF
presentation and the attached memo and provide feedback for prioritizing
use of Waterfront TIF funds in the year 2020 City Manager’s budget.
a. TIF Presentation
Overview of Portland Development Corporation Commercial Loan
5.
and Grant Programs.
As requested at the previous meeting, there will be a brief overview of
programs currently available to assist businesses in the City through the
Portland Development Program.
a. Business Assistance and Loan Programs
6. Next steps
a. Portland Fish Pier Deed
b. Table of Zoning Issues, Approaches, and Status
Packet
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting Agenda
March 21, 2019
Room 24, City Hall
3:00pm to 5:00pm
*************************************
1. Welcome and Introductions: Jon Jennings, City Manager, Chair
2. Review Meeting Notes from Meeting 5, 3719
a. Meeting Notes for 372019
3. Waterfront Working Group Memo for Meeting 6
a. Memo for Meeting 6
4. Working Group discussion of TIF Funding Priorities
Working Group members are asked to review the previously provided TIF
presentation and the attached memo and provide feedback for prioritizing
use of Waterfront TIF funds in the year 2020 City Manager’s budget.
a. TIF Presentation
Overview of Portland Development Corporation Commercial Loan
5.
and Grant Programs.
As requested at the previous meeting, there will be a brief overview of
programs currently available to assist businesses in the City through the
Portland Development Program.
a. Business Assistance and Loan Programs
6. Next steps
a. Portland Fish Pier Deed
b. Table of Zoning Issues, Approaches, and Status
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
City of Portland
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting #5
Thursday, March 7, 2019
3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Attendance:
Working Group: Jon Jennings, Becky Rand, Mike Alfiero, Keith Lane, Bill Coopersmith, Willis Spear,
Togue Brawn, Dory Waxman, Steve Dimillo, Cyrus Hagge, Charlie Poole
City Staff: Bill Needleman, Jeff Levine, Christine Grimando, Greg Mitchell, Ethan Strimling, Greg
Mitchell, Matthew Grooms
Agenda:
-- Welcome and Intro, Jon Jennings
-- Review Meeting Notes from Meeting 4 and 3
-- Zoning Issues Continued from previous meetings
Bill Needleman, Waterfront Coordinator, Matt Grooms, Planner, Christine Grimando
Acting Planning Director
-- Questions on Meetings
-- Performance Standards
-- Zoning Issues
-- Next Steps
Meeting Summary:
There were two discussion parts to this meeting:
Part 1) Continued discussion of zoning issues and clarification of the differences of opinion on nmouz
restrictions/recommendations and ordinance language (as well as restricted use clarifications and
recommendations). Additional restrictions or changes to the 55/45 marine/non-marine percentage rules
currently in place were also discussed, including the option of a 70/30 marine/non-marine percentage
option.
John Jennings and Bill Needleman stated that they need to take working group conclusions regarding
zoning issues to City Council, even though there is not unanimous consensus regarding restricted use
recommendations and setback footage requirements. Specifically, mariners are concerned that certain
language could allow future developers to take advantage of one-time exceptions (using an “it’s been
done before” argument for non-marine use development) and that unoccupied space can be counted
toward marine use in the 55/45 use split (marine/non-marine). John Jennings agreed to prepare a memo
RE: Fisherman’s Pier based on discussion (notes follow).
1
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
Part 2) Continued discussion/clarification of waterfront TIF zone. In Part 2, John Jennings stressed that
City staff needs input/ideas/recommendations/suggestions from the Working Group regarding allocation
of TIF funds. There was nearly unanimous support from PWWG that funds need to be allocated to
dredging. Group agreed to submit additional suggestions.
Discussion and Dialog of Meeting Part 1:
Mr. Needleman acknowledged the receipt of a 2/14/19 Issues letter from the PWWG that included the
group’s stand on Contract/Conditional Rezoning, NMOUZ 125/300 requirements, Permitted Uses,
Building Footprint Size and Lot Coverage, Ground Floor/Exterior Space, 55/45 Compliance
Determination, and Performance Standards.
Mr. Needleman distributed a table addressing many of the above issues, which included the issues,
approaches being considered to address the issues, the status of the issues and the next steps to be taken
on issues The table is intended to be a summary of where the group stands from a status standpoint.
It was agreed to approach the Planning Board with the 125 ft offset from Commercial Street with a 300 ft
exception at Long Wharf.
Issue: Contract/Conditional Rezoning - although the status is considered resolved, it is noted that there
is not consensus on the resolution within the PWWG. It will be recommended to the Planning Board to
eliminate the option for site specific zoning within the WCZ.
It was clear from discussion that there is not a group consensus on changing the percentages from 55/45
to 70/30 or on marketing restrictions for vacant space. Bill Needleman agreed that the non-consensus of
the Working Waterfront group on zoning restrictions and use percentages will be acknowledged to the
City Council, although it appears to be a non-resolvable non-consensus.
JJ: Does anyone disagree with BN on contract/conditional rezoning?
SD: I thought when we went to the planning board meeting the questions of whether to keep the language
in place or replace it.
BN: I thought we were as close to a resolution as we were going to get The extent of non-consensus
from the PWWG group will be reflected at Planning Board meeting
Issue: Non Marine Use Overlay Zone:
BN: The revised line leaves a significant majority of building within the overlay and the line bumps 25 ft
from highwater 25 ft offset from high water. 125/150 doesn’t make much difference.
Long Wharf offset is not resolved.
2
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
DEP might change it/other reasons to move overlay
Fisherman’s Wharf/Chandler’s has 125 ft, but it diverts back to same line because of the existing nmouz
water offset.
Dimillo’s line (500) (the majority of Jay’s parking lot is Dimillo’s holding) -- 25 ft setback from water
bumps the line
Flatbread/Rira is over the water (grandfathered use)
SD: Thomas block is also in B3?
BN: Gilberts is in B3, Dry Dock is in Waterfront Central Zone
MA: Flatbread/RiRa are in marine use only zone.
BN: They came in under a different set of rules, they are a reflection of their time.
MA: What happens if they were to leave?
BN: Within 1 year of leaving they lose their grandfathered status -- which is true for any property -- it’s
State law. The change from 150 to 125 doesn’t have a significant impact on existing structures.
BC: I like the 125/300 -- a fish pier built for fishermen
MA: Fish Pier parking for Pierce Atwood?
BN: The lot serves 85 spaces for PA -- as an offsite commercial non-marine lot, it is already non-
conforming, but it’s legal because it existed before current zoning ordinances.
CG: Other Fish Pier restrictions?
BN: In terms of development, ONLY development is support of seafood on Fish Pier. There may be
ancillary non marine uses, but only marine development on Fish Pier.
BC: My suggestion of a line change doesn’t change the existing buildings as they are now.
DW: IF someone wanted to develop that property, it would have to be approved by Fish Pier board and
that’s good.
BC: Deadline of June 17 let’s move on
JJ: We’ll put together a memo specifically on Fish Pier.
SD: Let’s talk about my neighbors at Chandler’s Wharf. If they were here they would say they
understand you (fishermen) didn’t like hotel project, but whatever gets built on the property will benefit
3
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
wharves through TIF. I don’t see any problem with what they develop. If parking lots are built, ok. I
know some in this group don’t want development, but it benefits everyone.
BN: The only difference would be 55% marine use requirement, building heights would be the same.
CP: They (the Dimillos) might need to do something on their property -- it seems we might be taking
something away from the family. I find it hard to believe that vessel (the floating restaurant) will last
forever. I hate seeing us arbitrarily pushing a line back that might hinder a public asset.
KL: Here’s a family that’s opened up their property to the public -- this property is unique -- we have to
look at it publically even though its privately owned. It’s an anomaly, but it’s special -- it’s dual purpose/
public/private.
BC: You have to be in compliance with 55/45 -- would Steve’s place be entitled to any CEA money? I
understand where Steve is coming from -- I’m putting that on the table -- this property is unique and I
support 125/300 here.
WS: The reason we got the referendum going is that in 2010 -- the fishermen saw there was a trend that
had a negative impact on waterfront marine use . We accept 125/300 at Long Wharf, but no more. If one
guy can get it why can’t someone else? It would be very easy for a developer to come in and say he’s
(DiMillo) got it why can’t we? Extending to a 500 nmouz is too dangerous. To be safe 300 is the most.
At another time we can talk, this is a transition period now. This is one of the biggest hot spots for
development in America, and we need time to develop restrictions. Young fishermen want to buy
waterfront and we need to make sure they can do that. We could lose winning lottery ticket.
TB: Going from 125 to 300 was odd, but what you are saying about the property makes sense to me - if it
stays at 300 but Steve wants to do something and you think it’s great, let’s approve it.
BN: The mechanism to open is a rezoning, which is a higher bar conversation.
MA: I am a little uncomfortable punishing the Dimillio family due to increased traffic -- this seems to be
biggest issue we haven’t even discussed yet. How does accommodating Dimillo take into account traffic?
We need to discuss traffic first. I don’t want to see the marina suffer because of traffic -- the marina is
good business that everyone benefits from.
BC: If Steve lost his boat and he needed to put new structure on the property I would be 1st to support it.
JJ: There has been a good compromise from fishermen to go to 300 at Long Wharf -- I’ve heard everyone
say they do not want to penalize the Dimillo family - 300 feet seemed to be comfortable compromise until
the last meeting -- we do need to move on get a sense of the group...
CP: I want to make sure door is not slammed closed for young people to buy property on waterfront.
JJ: We feel comfortable going to the Planning Board with 125 and 300 (Long Wharf)-- does anyone
completely disagree? (No)
BN: I appreciate the manner with which this has been handled by everyone.
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Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
Issue: 55% first floor and open area marine use requirement
BN: It was brought up that marine use should be a condition for non marine use -- if you are going to
have a non marine use you must 1st demonstrate a marine use within the structure
KL: How does 70/30 work?
BN: Same as 55/45. Language is written that 55% is required. Bill suggested that if you have vacancies
and you do not have 55% marine use, you must show how you will have marine use in open space.
Lobstering group suggests 70/30 for open space.
BN: With the system now, if there is any change of use/tenancy it needs to be marketed to marine use for
60 days. If nobody bites, then owners bring evidence of marketing for marine use to the zoning authority
that shows they tried to lease for marine use to no avail, but do have non marine tenant, which would be
permitted if 55% of building is marine use or vacant.
KL: What happens to remaining space in building?
BN: Only 45% can go to non marine use -- you don’t get non marine use until you have compliance with
55% marine use. Either occupied or vacant and available
BN: With 55/45 right now there is about a 5% vacancy rate -- this is not indicative of a wholesale
problem outside of overlay.
BN: issues 1 at a time -- for open spaces lobstermen suggestion of 70/30?
BC: Is there a penalty for going over 55? BN: No There’s no requirement for non marine, only an
allowance for non marine.
JJ: We need a better understanding of 70/30.
BN: Referring to Dimillos, outside of the Overlay. Right now 55% of this parking should be dedicated to
marine use. Recreational berthing does not qualify as marine use. Neither does a floating
restaurant. Right now your use is legal, (grandfathered) but non-conforming.
If existing use continues uninterrupted, legal nonconformity would remain. But there is no ability to
expand it (legal non-conformity), and if you abandoned use for 1 year, you would have to comply with
55/45.. If existing legal nonconformity was abandoned, property would be subject to 55/45 use
restrictions.
It’s very complicated to apply. We do our best, but it’s a bear.
SD: If no restaurant, how could I develop?
BN: 70/30 is same as 55/45, just different percentages. Commercial parking is not a legal use within the
zone. Driveways are carved out, not part of the percentages. Percentages are based on leasable/usable
space.
5
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
BN: Outside the nmouz - your 1st floor must comply, 2nd story can be completely non marine.
SD: I don’t see a reason to change to 70/30.
BN: Maine Wharf and end of Portland Pier -- 2 examples recent examples taking advantage of the full
45% non-marine – in and out of building .
BN: If it’s been there, nobody is watching who goes in there. It’s allowed to be part of the general
parking supply.
JJ: We need to have a dedicated meeting just on parking.
CP: Within X amount of commercial berthing, there could be dedicated space for loading/unloading and
marine use needs for operating.
JJ: I’d like to put this one on hold. Is there a way to come up with a solution to give the fishermen what
they want? Let’s bring this up at the next meeting.
BN: Is there any other discussion on marine use as a condition for non-marine use occupancy?
SD: I don’t think it’s fair to property owners to go to 70/30..
BC: Keeping the space vacant would reduce the ability to take space from marine use -- it would
eliminate the need for marketing.
BN: The 55/45 is all about the1st floor -- upper floors are not subject to percentage use.
CP: When we did this 10 years ago, the idea was to keep buildings full.
BN: Right now I am not seeing a consensus for changing the percentages -- this should be reflected in the
notes.
BN: My recommendation would be that this group get comfortable with percentages and leave this as a
non-consensus resolution.
Issue: First floors marketed to marine use as a condition for non-marine use occupancy
TB: First floors, Do you want us to put some boundaries on that?
JJ: We do an annual report of anything significant that was done on the waterfront, and a comprehensive
report every 3 years.
End of Zoning Issues Discussion -- remaining issues will be addressed at a future meeting
6
Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
TIF Funding Part II - Greg Mitchell
GM: Any feedback on doing a few things/higher investment projects vs. doing many projects at a lower
investment level? Particular ideas? Small vs. big projects? Low value vs. high value?
JJ: This is homework.
SD: Put effort and $$$$ into new berthing for fishermen. Fishing boat berthing.
GM: Berthing means dredging.
SD: Not always.
JJ: We don’t want to add more berthing at the fish pier because it might interfere with private piers.
CP: I think dredging is a part of this discussion.
MA: I agree with the dredging -- it’s going to open up a lot of berthing.
BC: Fish are being caught -- boats are being turned away now because infrastructure is not there for all
the large loads. I’d like to see TIF money available for the top of the water.
JJ: Some type of loan program/grant program?
BC: Yes. Money available to kickstart businesses by starting funds available to rent Charlie’s property
GM: Program could be designed for that purpose
JJ: Come forward with sheet of paper -- critically important to get this done soon budget has to get to
council by april 8.
JJ: Portland Development Corp. -- small business asking for loans/grants
CP: Property owners face difficulty diving into infrastructure issue.
JJ: In my conversation with DOT commissioner he showed that he knows it is on his agenda to figure out
how to fund dredging. He understands the importance. I think we’ll see a lot of support from the new
administration.
GM: Continue to think about ideas and feed them back to us. Make a laundry list/large/small/medium...
JJ: This can be anythings (small storage bldg. anything) so we can put package together to give to council
Be creative.
BC: How to support young people -- one idea was to charge the village supplement fee for any hotel
room on Fore street -- reason: those people come to see the working waterfront again, we’re an
important part of development of portland
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Agenda 2
Waterfront Working Group
Meeting 5 Notes - DRAFT
3-7-19
JJ: We agree/user fee/local options tax is a good idea, but taxing is a State issue
ES: We have more support for this than ever, but it is still huge lift.
BC: We are asking for support of a group
JJ: We have 12 years of significant revenue ahead of us as part of TIF -- we don’t have authority to
institute tax, that’s the state
SD: Suppose I propose some development on Long Wharf, what percent has to be marine-use?
DW: Is there a list of restrictions? (in the TIF program)
BN: There is more of a list of what can be done.
GM: We’ll recirculate that - recirculate the balance with commitments/balance. This is a a re-occuring
pool every year.
JJ: Greg, will you also send to the group info about Portland Development Corp? We also will do some
work on parking and other conditions related to open space.
Meeting ends.
8
Economic Development Department
Memorandum
Date: March 14, 2019
To: Waterfront Working Group
RE: Meeting #6, March 21, 2019
• TIF program recommendations
• Overview of Portland Development Corporation Commercial Loan and Grant
Programs
From: Bill Needelman, Waterfront Coordinator
CC: Jon Jennings, City Manager
Greg Mitchell, Economic Development Director
Jeff Levine, Planning and Urban Development Director
Christine Grimando, Planning Director
Matt Grooms, Planner
Jennifer Thompson, Associate Corporation Counsel
John Peverada, Parking Manager
Introduction:
The following memo provides support for the continuing work of the Waterfront Working Group
(WWG) at its 6th meeting on March 21. The Meeting 6 agenda will concentrate on prioritizing
potential use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. The February 7, 2019 Municipal Tax
Increment Financing Overview presentation from the Meeting 3 packet is attached as
background for this discussion.
As requested at Meeting 5, also attached to this memo are:
• memos on the City’s commercial loan and business assistance programs;
• the City deed for the Portland Fish Pier, describing limits on allowable uses; and,
• and updated table of Zoning Issues and Approaches, showing the revised status of topics
under discussion.
Prioritizing TIF Funding:
As described by Greg Mitchell, Economic Development Director, at Meeting 4, the 2020 Budget
year assumes $1.4 Million in Waterfront TIF revenue. Of that figure, +/-$700,000 is previously
committed, potentially more. Existing commitments include staff salaries, retiring bonds,
professional services, the Merrill’s Wharf CEA, and new debt to pay for an extension of streets in
the Eastern Waterfront. To be conservative, staff suggests that +/-$600,000 remains available
1
for allocation for the 2020 budget year; however, the City Manager stresses that it is prudent to
consider reserving funds from these early years in the expanded program to allow the Waterfront
TIF fund to grow in anticipation of making more robust allocations in future years.
Use of Funds: The Waterfront TIF program constrains use of the funds to the following categories:
• Pier and Wharf Structural Repair
• Street Studies and Improvements
• Pedestrian and Multi-Modal Circulation
• New Publicly-Owned pier
• Surface and Structured Parking
• Utilities Infrastructure
• City Staff Salaries
• Environmental Improvements, Including Sea Level Adaptation
• Dredging of Commercial Vessel Berthing
• Dredge Sediment Disposal and CAD Cell Development
• Workforce Training Fund
• Professional Services Costs
• Credit Enhancement Agreements
• Local Match for Ocean Gateway Project
Given the limited funds available for the current year, City staff recommends against spreading
the funds between the full list above. In order to have a significant impact, staff recommends
choosing a small number of projects that will address the greatest need(s) and have the greatest
impact.
The WWG conversations to date have stressed access and berthing as fundamental to the
current problems expressed by the maritime community. Specifically, congestion on
Commercial Street is a recurring issue that will need attention and investment. Also, as is noted
in the meeting notes from Meeting 5, the need for pier dredging is clear and support for
dredging appears strong among WWG members and the maritime community. Dredging
berthing areas has the potential to reestablish lost berthing and vessel loading opportunities.
Additional expansion of berthing has been explored on the Portland Fish Pier, and that remains a
viable opportunity subject to direction by the Portland Fish Pier Authority.
Staff Recommendations:
Commercial Street Congestion: The Commercial Street Operations and Master Plan process will
in the near future report short-term and long-term potential improvements to address
congestion on the waterfront. While we cannot report out a list of recommended
improvements at this time (such options are still under development,) we can be sure that all
interventions on Commercial will cost dollars – certainly more than can be paid for through TIF
funding alone. Staff recommends considering Commercial Street as a priority area for
investment with 2020 dollars. 2
Dredging: The vexing and long-discussed problem of pier and berthing dredging has both short
and long-term costs. Recent work by the Portland Harbor Commission, funded by EPA
Brownfields grants, and disposal option evaluations for the City by Stantec, funded by MDOT,
have identified the location, volume, and composition of sediments needing removal. The
current process has also identified a feasible site for sediment disposal – a Confined Aquatic
Disposal (CAD) cell located near the South Portland Coast Guard station.
The potential costs associated with dredging and disposing sediments that compromise berthing
resources within Portland Harbor (Portland and South Portland) will likely exceed $30,000,000.
While TIF funding alone cannot carry such an extraordinary figure, TIF funds could provide
needed short-term funding shortfalls to continue the chemical testing, engineering design, and
permitting to allow the process to continue. Future TIF funds also have the potential to leverage
much larger funds from state and federal sources, demonstrating a local commitment to the
dredging effort. Private and public funds, contributed by pier owners, will likely also be needed
as a tipping fee based on the volume of dredged sediments. Staff asks the WWG to consider
prioritizing dredging as a use of 2020 TIF funds to allow continued progress toward improving
access and addressing pollution in Portland Harbor.
Berthing Expansion: In addition to Congestion and Dredging, WWG members may consider
whether TIF funds may be used for the expansion of berthing at the Portland Fish Pier.
Construction of berthing at the Fish Pier would be consistent with the mission of the facility and
would expand the facility’s relevance to the lobstering industry. If the WWG suggests
prioritizing use of TIF funds toward berthing expansion at the Fish Pier, staff will report this
finding to the Portland Fish Pier Authority Board for further exploration.
Concluding Remarks: The above recommendations are not intended to constrain the
conversation or imagination of the WWG. Other priorities have merits and staff looks forward
to hearing the thoughts and guidance provided at Meeting 6.
Attachments:
• Meeting 5 Notes, March 7, 2019
• February 7, 2019 TIF Presentation
• Portland Fish Pier Deed, State of Maine to the City of Portland
• Table of Zoning Issues, Approaches and Status, Draft, 3-14-19
3
Municipal Tax Increment
Financing Overview
Waterfront Working Group
February 7, 2019
Presented by:
Gregory A. Mitchell, Director
Economic Development/City of Portland
1
What is Tax Increment Financing?
A public economic development
municipal financing program, funded
by property taxes on the incremental
or increased new municipal assessed
value generated by a development
project.
2
Why is TIF Used?
To stimulate private sector investment and job creation
Targeted industries
Targeted locations
To Invest in Public Infrastructure and City costs (staff, studies, etc.) and additional specified
uses.
Workforce Training.
Expand existing or fund new transit service capital costs (bus shelters, benches, signage,
crosswalks, etc.) and limited operational costs (transit operator salaries, fuel, and
maintenance).
To ‘shelter’ against adverse adjustments to State subsidies and County taxes based on total
municipal valuation.
3
How Does TIF Work?
A municipality designates a specific
geographic area as a municipal development
tax increment financing district.
This “freezes” the base value of taxable
property within the district (the original
assessed value or “OAV”); TIF revenues derive
from taxes on increased new property value
above OAV.
Municipality adopts a development program
describing authorized uses of revenue. 4
Establishing The TIF District
TIF districts may be designated for a maximum
of 30 years, and at least 25% of the district area
must be:
Blighted
In need or rehabilitation, redevelopment
or conservation;
Suitable for commercial uses or arts; or
Affordable Housing with 25% suitable for
residential use.
5
Funding Mechanisms
Municipal Bonds
Municipality established a Development Sinking
Fund for debt service requirements
Credit Enhancement Agreement
TIF revenues placed in a Project Cost Account for
direct payment to company for authorized project
costs
Municipal Economic Development
TIF revenues placed in a Project Cost Account for
direct payment by municipality for authorized
project costs 6
How Does ‘Sheltering’ Work?
With new investment, real estate valuation
goes
As a result, state subsidies go and county
taxes go
TIF ‘shelters’ captured new value by
excluding it from total municipal value
reported to the state for the length of the TIF.
Portland ‘shelter’ value is estimated at 30
cents of every new property tax dollar. 7
TIF Approval Process (2 Steps)
TIF Program
- District Boundaries
- Development Program
- Financial Plan
1. Municipal or County Approval, followed by:
2. State DECD Approval for Commercial & Industrial Projects;
OR
Maine State Housing Authority for Affordable Housing TIFs.
Credit Enhancement Agreements w/Project Developer then executed
after above two approvals.
City TIF Policy
Adopted New Council TIF Policy as of 11/20/2017
Credit Enhancement Agreements (CEA) – up to 20
Years With Average 65% Capture Rate
CEA Development Compliance with City Green Building
Code and State Prevailing Wages Related to New
Construction
9
Portland’s Experience With TIFs
Portland currently has 7 active Affordable Housing TIF
Districts; 8 active Commercial TIF Districts with Credit
Enhancement Agreements (CEA), including one CEA on
Merrill’s Wharf; and 3 area wide TIF Districts including:
- Bayside
- Downtown Transit
- Waterfront
10
Portland Peninsula TIF Map
11
Waterfront
TIF
District
12
Waterfront TIF District Allowable
Uses
Pier and Wharf Structural Repair
Street Studies and Improvements
Pedestrian and Multi-Modal Circulation
New Publicly-Owned pier
Surface and Structured Parking
Utilities Infrastructure
City Staff Salaries
Environmental Improvements, Including Sea Level Adaptation and Infrastructure Improvements
Dredging of Commercial Vessel Berthing
Dredge Sediment Disposal and CAD Cell Development
Workforce Training Fund
Professional Services Costs
Credit Enhancement Agreements
Local Match for Ocean Gateway Project
13
Past (Tax Years 4-1-2002 to 4-1-2018) City
Uses of Waterfront TIF District Revenue
City Staff Salary and Fringe Benefits
Local Match for Ocean Gateway Project
Professional Services Costs
Waterfront Credit Enhancement Agreement
(Merrill’s Wharf Redevelopment through 4-1-2027)
Past Average Annual Financial Allocation: $600,000
14
Waterfront TIF District Property Tax
Revenue Projections (4-1-2019 – 4-1-2031)
Tax Year TIF Capture Rev
Notes:
Est. (Millions)
2019 $1.4 1. Estimates include new development
2020 $2.0 value from projects under construction
and planned.
2021 $2.5
2022 $5.0 2. Annual mil rate increase of $2%.
2023 $5.1
3. Annual property valuation increase of
2024 $5.8 1%.
2025 $5.9
2026 $6.0 4. City-wide revaluation will impact these
revenue projections.
2027 $6.3
2028 $6.5
2029 $7.4
2030 $7.7
2031 $7.9 15
Union Wharf – TIF Case Study
NOTE: No CEA Agreement in Place.
Original Assessed Value (base value): $616,430
City Total Assessed Value at Build Out: $3.58 Million
- Less OAV of $616,430
- Equals Increased Assessed Value of $2,963,570
Annual Average Property Tax Revenue from Capture of Increased Assessed Value
(IAV) over OAV: 100% - $76,342; 65% - $49,622
Total Property Tax Revenue from Capture of IAV Over Remaining TIF Term (FY2019
through FY2032): 100% - $1,068,784; 65% - $694,710
16
Questions?
Gregory A. Mitchell, Director
Economic Development/City of Portland
389 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04101
207-874-8683
gmitchell@portlandmaine.gov
17
Agenda 4
Businesss Assistance and Loan Programs
Economic Development Department
Gregory A. Mitchell, Director
Revolving Loan Program
The City’s Revolving Loan Program (RLP) provides commercial loans to Portland businesses to
facilitate economic growth and job creation. Loans are made to all types and sizes of businesses,
from the smallest establishment to the largest corporation. They range from as much as $250,000
to as little as a few thousand dollars.
Businesses are encouraged to establish relationships with banks and credit unions, and to access
conventional financing whenever possible. The City’s RLP is here to assist when there’s a
financing gap or when businesses are not able to access conventional financing. Most RLP loans
are provided as gap financing in which the City’s lending board, the Portland Development
Corporation (PDC), partners with a lead lender (generally banks, credit unions and other
community lenders). For start-ups and even existing businesses that cannot obtain conventional
financing, loan assistance may be available, particularly through micro loans.
Loans from the City’s RLP can help to fund a wide range of activities. These include building
construction and renovations, leasehold improvements, machinery and equipment purchase,
working capital, purchase of an existing business, refinancing (if the project also includes a
business expansion component at least 25% over the debt amount to be refinanced), acquisition
of fishing vessels and marine related machinery and equipment, and acquisition of real estate.
Fixed interest rates are determined by the PDC, the City’s lending board, on a case-by-case
basis based upon a variety of considerations, such as anticipated job creation and retention,
collateral, level of risk, credit worthiness, etc. Generally, interest rates are a point or two above
the rates offered by the banking community.
An overview of each of the loan programs within the City’s RLP follows:
60/30/10 Portland Business Program:
• Loan of $50,000 to $200,000;
• 60% lead lender (with possible guarantee from SBA or FAME), 30% City, 10% equity from
borrower;
• Flexible terms up to 20 years with a 10-year balloon;
• Especially useful for projects between $250,000 and $500,000 for which the SBA 504 may
not be cost effective;
• May be used for working capital
• No prepayment penalties.
Agenda 4
Businesss Assistance and Loan Programs
Micro Business Loan Program and Creative Economy Loan Program
• Loans up to $50,000;
• Maximum loan term up to 7 years;
• Prefer minimum private investment to Micro Loan dollar ratio of 1:3 (for example, $30,000
project: $22,250 Micro Loan, $7,500 borrower).
Real Estate Development Loan Program
• Loans up to $200,000;
• Can be used to finance non-owner occupied real estate;
• Minimum private investment to RLP ratio of 1:1, including minimum 10% equity investment
from borrower;
• Maximum loan term of 30 years with 10-year balloon,
• Cannot be used for refinancing.
Regional Economic Development Loan Program (FAME)
• Loans up to $250,000;
• Maximum loan term of 20 years with 10-year balloon;
• Maximum loan amount relative to project cost is as follows:
• Loans of $50,000 - $100,000 may not exceed ½ of the net new funds being provided;
• Loans over $100,000 may not exceed 1/3 of the net new funds being provided.
Brownfields Cleanup Revolving Loan Fund
• Loans generally not to exceed $200,000;
• Maximum loan term of 5 years;
• Funding for remediation/cleanup;
• Competitive interest rates in the 3 to 3.5% range.
(Funding is also available to cover the cost of Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site
Assessments.)
Applying to the City’s RLP requires the same materials that a bank would request, for example,
historical financials, projections, tax returns and personal financial statements, along with
business plans when the applicant is a new business. Applications can be accessed on line at
https://www.portlandmaine.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1556/Loan-Application?bidId=
Please contact the City’s Business Programs Manager, Nelle Hanig, with any questions or to
discuss a possible loan (756-8019 or nrh@portlandmaine.gov).
Agenda 4
Businesss Assistance and Loan Programs
Economic Development Department
Gregory A. Mitchell, Director
Portland Business Assistance Program for Job Creation
Program Description
The City of Portland’s Business Assistance Program for Job Creation (BAP) provides grants up to
$20,000 to new and expanding Portland businesses for the creation of net new, permanent full-time
jobs for low/moderate income individuals. [Program funds are depleted at this time but additional
funding is anticipated in July 2019.]
Program Objectives
Job creation for low/moderate income individuals;
New business formation and existing business expansion;
Leverage private investment to support business growth;
Help new and expanding businesses establish credit;
Enhance the health and vitality of the Portland economy.
Program Requirements/Eligibility
Create one (1) full-time job (at least 1,750 hours/year *) for every $10,000 of grant funding;
Applicant business location fits any of the following: In a low income area of the City; Within
walking distance to one or more of these areas; or, Easily accessible from these areas via
public transportation;
Net new job(s) created with the help of the grant is marketed to low/moderate income**
individuals, resulting in at least 51% of these jobs going to this population. (For example, if
two jobs are created to meet grant requirements, then both must be filled by low/moderate
income individuals);
Job(s) is created within nine (9) months of signing a grant agreement;
Wage paid to new hire(s) exceeds Portland’s minimum wage .
Financing Terms
Maximum grant: $20,000 per business.
Required Private Match: Equal to or greater than grant amount.
Private Match Sources: Private investment match includes at least 50% private equity. The
remaining 50% may be a bank loan or a loan from the City’s Commercial Loan Program, if
conventional financing is not available. For existing businesses, the 50% equity can include
private investment made within the past 12 months.
Application Review Criteria/Preferences:
Criteria/Preferences(listed in no particular order):
• Career Potential
o Job training for new hire(s) in a marketable skill;
o Potential for job advancement within the company or elsewhere.
• Employer
o Demonstrated need for grant funds to create job(s);
o Private match exceeds grant amount requested;
City of Portland - Economic Development Department - 389 Congress Street - Portland, ME 04101 - (207) 874-8683
Agenda 4
o Businesss Assistance
Number of net new jobs exceeds one (1) per $10,000 of grant funding. and Loan Programs
• Compensation and Benefits
o Quality of compensation and benefits package (for example, wages, health, vacation, sick
leave);
Eligible Funding Activities
1. Equipment and machinery;
2. Permanent working capital, (e.g., inventory, furniture and fixtures, relocation expense);
3. Working capital expenses (e.g., rent, utilities, salaries, insurance);
4. Up to $1,000 for business consulting services (e.g., accounting, marketing, software training,
legal assistance);
5. Leasehold improvements, renovation, reconstruction, or restoration of vacant, under-utilized
or deteriorated space; building modifications to enhance accessibility to elderly or
handicapped persons. (Construction projects must comply with Davis Bacon federal labor
standards.)
Ineligible Activities
a. Refinance existing debt;
b. Down payment for other financing;
c. Use of grant funds for activities, (e.g., purchases of equipment and supplies), commenced or
completed prior to program funding approval and prior to signing a grant agreement.
Basic Program Qualifications
• Business must be located within the City of Portland;
• Applicant cannot owe outstanding property taxes, fees, or judgments to the City, and property
must be free of all City liens and encumbrances.
Application and Approval Process
The City’s Economic Development Department is responsible for administration of the Business
Assistance Program for Job Creation, with guidance from the Housing and Community Development
Division. Eligible applications are analyzed by an underwriter and then presented to the Portland
Development Corporation (PDC) for its review. The PDC has final decision-making authority in
approving applicants for grant awards.
Further information and applications can be downloaded at
http://www.portlandmaine.gov/556/Business-Assistance-Program-for-Job-Crea
or contact Nelle Hanig at nrh@portlandmaine.gov or 207-756-8019,
City of Portland - Economic Development Department - 389 Congress Street - Portland, ME 04101 - (207) 874-8683
Portland Fish Pier Deed
State of Maine to the City of Portland
KNOll ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS
That, the STATE OF !1AINE, acting by and through its Governor, on
recocmcndation of the Commissioner of the Department of
Transportation, under and pursuant to the provisions of 23 M.R.s.A.
0
Section 4206, in considc-ation of One Dollar ($1.00) and oeher
valuable considerations paid by the CITY OF PORTLAND, a Municipal
Corporation located at Portland, County of Cumberland and State o£
Maine, the receipt whereof it does hereby acknowledge, does hereby
remise, release, bargain, sell and cqnvey and quit-claim unto the
said CITY OF PORTLAND, its right, titla and interest in and to a
certain lot or parc:cl of land situated on the southeasterly side of
Commercial Street, in Portland, County of Cu~berland and State of
Huine, bounded and described as follo1<s, for as long as said lot: or
(_
parcel is operated as a public fis~ pier Eor thc"purposc of landing
or processin~ shellfish, finfish or other natural products of the
sea or for other activitias di:·ectly related to the purpose of
landing or- processing shcll!::Lh, fir:fish ol:" nacural products of tho
sea including fueling, loadins or sellln3 these 2roducts, to wit:
Be3inning at: a poinc in t:-w souche'"''terl.y siJo line of Cot1lmercial
• Street in said Portland, at the no::-th·..;estorly corner of lane now
owned by Armour and Cocqa:~y as descri!;ed i.n a d(!ed Erom Fr01nkl in
Real Esc ate C'?mpany to ~ai:.l .\roour ilnd C.:J":pany, dated .-\p~i 1 26, 1913
and recorded J..n chc Cu:noerlilnd County R.egu:r:ry of Deeds J.n Book
1008, Page 120; said po~n~ ~ls0.~ci~3 Che sa~e point dnscribod 1 11 a
deed from ProprietorR ot ' ,l.O~ ~nnrt to Armour and Co~panv datctl
l·!arch 1981 <tnd to bEo .·.,cc,:le..'. in ::he CL:;::berlar1d Count? R<~Jistry of
Deeds.
3!+ -/~7'-~0
0 11
Thence Sa :::., alcn~ s::i.~ .• \r . . ll)U~. :ln~ Co:npuny L.:lnd on~
hundred four :wcl Sl.:.::ty-t::reo hu:l:::-eJt:-Js (l()!,.tJJ) feec CJ <l point:;
TI1cnce N. 55°-03'-~JO" C. fi:ty 1:~.J ~:lr<'·-~ t.-,nch;; (50.3) fu<!t to the
' southerly tine of lund ilG'.-1 or [cr:lL'~:ly ol ~obcrt J. Levine Truste'e
o[ Levine Real 2stnte Trust, as 1esc:-ibed in a deed to sal~ Tru 9 c
fr::>::~ Poultry Process in.:;, Inc., dnt:cd Sc~te:Jbcr 30, 1930, ,1 nd
Portland Fish Pier Deed
-2- State of Maine to the City of Portland
-~corded in the Cumberland County Registry of Deeds~ Book 4673, Page
2;
Thence S, 34 °-5 7' -00" E. four hundred s i:x: and forty-seven hundredths
(406 .4 7) feet along the southwesterly line of land now or formerly
of Robert J, Levine, Trustee of Levine Real Estate Trust and said
line extended to a poinc, said point being twenty-five (25) feet
'outheasterly of the five story brick building on said Real Estate
Trust Property;
Thence N. 55°·03' -00" E. one hundred forty-five and four hundredchs
(145.04) feet along the line described in a conveyance to said
Robert J. Levine, Trustee of Levine Real Estate Trust to a point,
said point being on a line established by extending the
south\-testerly line of land of the Proprietors of Union Hharf (Union
~1arf Property) southeasterly;
Thence continuing on said line extended on a course of S.
35 °-2 9' -00" E, seven hundred eleven and forty-nine hundredths
(711.49) feet to the Harbor Comoissioners Lina in Portland Harbour;
Thence S. 42°-00'-00" W. alon3 the cun·bo::- Co:nmissioners Line about
three hundred sixty-six (366) feet to the northeasterly edge of
Browns ~arf, so-called;
tence southeasterly along the northeasterly cd3e of said Browns
-.narf said line being about ri~ht anJl8& to last described line,
about'one hundred eleven (111) feet to the southeasterly end of-said
w'harf;
Thence southlvcsterly along the sout\~east~::ly end o[ said i3ro~ms
ifua rf abou c one hun tired sixty -seven ( 16 7) fee 1: to the sou t:nves ter 1 y
ed~c of said Wharf;
Thence northwesterly alon;; c:1e souc::·.,us::o::ly ec!:;e of saicl :Jrowns
Wharf about one huncred seven (107) :eot to a point in the Harbor
Commissioners Line;
Thence S. 42°-00'-00" H. about: ona hu:-td-::ed Corty-thrcc (143) feet to
a point~ said point being on a l~~e being t~c extansiorl of the
nor:theasterly line of the Unit2ct Sc:~r.:0s Gov\~r:tncnt (occupied by the:
U.S. !laval Reserve) in a soLt::h,~:.\:>::2~·ly cih:ccti_aa;
Thence N. !+7°-46' -00" \1. alon:; s:\ic'! extended lin'' and the
northcasccrly line of land of chu satd llr1itcd Staces Gnvern~cnt, ten
hundred twcn~y-ttarec and fifty-twa hun<lrodchs (1023.52) feet to 3
point:. in th:.J southe~•~terly line cf Co~ilGI~rci.:.1l St!."'Cet;
'['hence L'!. 17°-06'-.10" C:. thi:ty-~i,·c :ln ..l fifteen hundrt!dths (35.15)
feet along th2 sout~2asc~rt; l~~c of c~~m8rcial Street;
Portland Fish Pier Deed
.• .. State of Maine to the City of Portland
-3-
'
. TI1enca N. 21°-52 '-00" E. t\vO hundred ninety-nine and ten hundredths
(299.10) feet along the southeasterly line of Commercial Street;
Thence N. 25°-22'-00" E. one hundred eishty~four and tHcnty-four
hundredths (184.24) feet along the southeasterly line of Comoarcial
Street; ··
Thence N. 27°-51 1 -OO" E. one hundred si:<taen and sixty-four
hundredths (116.64) feet along the southeasterly line of CoQmcrcial
Street; ·
Thence N. 31 °-07' -00" E. forty-six and forty-six hundredths (46.46)
feet along the southeasterly line of Commercial Street;
,.
Thence N. 36°•49' -00" E. thirty-nine and ninety-eight hundredth~
(39.93) feet along the southeasterly line of Commercial Street;
Thence N. 40°-22' -00" E. fifty-five and thirty-seven hundredths
(55.37) feet along the southeaste.rly line of Commercial Street to
the point of besinning.
The herein described parcel of land c.:ont;lins about 14.578 acre:,~ and
was acquired by Notice of T~ki:1'~, I'::nprir.!tors of Union '.v'harf, et a.l,
to State of Ho.ine, recorded April 1, 1981 in the Cumberland County
Registry of Deeds in Book 4759; Paae 119.
This conveyance is subject to the ri;3hts of Portland ~.Juter District
as acquired by deed of the StilC\J of O!ni:-~e <.luted i!al:'cb 30, 1983· and
recorded in the Cu::Jberland County I\c;gistry o£ Doeds in Jook 6142,
Page 57.
Being a certain lot or parcel <)f land as .<:hmm on the Dao.:1rt:mcnt of
Transportation Property ~lap fo:- ?o::t:L!nd :>ish ?iot" dated· J.'lnuary
1901, on file in the Office of the ~aLne Dup.:1rtment of
Transpor.tat: ion ac Augusta, File 1~o. 3 -2')8 and recorded in the
Cumberland County Rczisny of Deeds in Plan lloo}: 137, P.:1;;e 34.
Titis deed docs not convey the risht~ hel,J by the Staca, includinn
:i;;ht:s. the State h~ld7 in tr.usc for. tho c:u::>lic,, in the S~lb::lt:1rt;ed"and
lnterttdal lands wtthLn the oou~carLcs ot the aoove dascribed lot or
parcel of land.
The ri~ht, title and interest canvuved bv chis d~ed shall
aucornatic.J.lly cevert to the~ sc~·1ti..1, ~.·it::o~t: ·thu · ni:lccssity or rc-t'~ntrv
· oc no tic~, ::;houl.i and ~•hun :;:-t,~ l,)C
- ·.)1' p;ltc:el is no lont>0c used
~ . or ·
opurnccJ ns a public fislt pair tor tho purpose of lnnjinJ ur
procc~!sin1; sh~llfi!.ih, finfish o"C' ut~1er natut~:.tt producc5 oi thH ~ea
or cot· vtl1tn- accivitie£ direccly rcl.J.tc>d to the puroosl.l of Lu1din!'
n~ procc.:ssin~ shellfish, finiisn or ot~cr n.:1Cural p~oduct3 of cha'
~ .... u.:_u·-a, includia3 fuolict;, lua.Jin~ t)!;' scll:~l~~ these pt:ocluct!-:.,
Portland Fish Pier Deed
State of Maine to the City of Portland
{
I
TO HAVE A.'{D TO ltOLTJ the same, togethet" wic:h all the privilages and
appurtenances thereunto belonging to the said CITY OF PORTL9ND.
IN \HTNESS I<HE:u:oF, I, Joseph E. Brennan, Governor of the State of
Maine, have caused the name and great seal of c:he State of Maine to
be hereto affixed this ninth day of September, in the year of our
nine hundred and eishcy-chrce.
STATE OF ~lA.DIS
. ! _, ,~
By -:---'-·r-...:"'.;;·~~!··.•·...:··.:.(-"-:...;~;>_-;;.:·~:::<-:::!·':.:"':!.':.::-..~:::·:;::.__Gave rno r
,. / /
Affixed By_.4~/
,
/
/ ./~,~'··-·-------
( /9eputy Secrcta~r of 3t~te
S"!'.\TI:: Or"---HAI:~E ) ( ,.£..... ;/ <;f
COi.HHY. OF KE~HiEflEC) .ss. -----·~!~,...:~~~~.. ·...:·~"~;~(-:_1__~----· 1933
Per~onally appeared tha above n~:ned Jo~•:•pn r::. IJr.-.nn:ln, ~overnor of
tha State of Haine and ac!<no:~.. lcd~ ed th::: .--:b:Jve in!) tru~un c to be his
freu act and deed in his said c'tp.s.::ic:: ;lnd tht~ frea act ;tnJ duad E
the State o£ 1-!aine. 0
~.":.;.-~ .. --'\
!J .... - . J - ( . .:c~'
Waterfront Working Group
Summary Table of Zoning Issues, Approaches, and Status DRAFT 3-14-19
Zoning Issue Approaches Under Status Next Steps
Consideration
Contract/Conditional Eliminate option for site specific Resolved. The WWG Staff to recommend
Rezoning zoning within the WCZ will likely not have to Planning Board
complete agreement on
elimination of the tool
Non-marine Use Revise line to 125 ft offset from Nearly Resolved. The Staff ready to
Overlay Zone Commercial St with 300 ft at WWG will likely not have recommend to
Long Wharf complete agreement. Planning Board
Fish Pier and Long Wharf
unresolved.
55% first floor and Separate open areas from first Under discussion. WWG discussion
open area Marine floor. Percentages discussed by
Use Requirement Lobstering group suggests 70/30 WWG on 3-7-19. Several
split for open areas WWG members
Require marine use occupancy expressed support for the
as a condition for non-marine status quo
occupancy
First floors marketed Eliminate the requirement, General agreement, Staff ready to
to marine use as a subject to agreement that the recommend
Marine/N-M use split has been
needs confirmation elimination to
condition for non-
adequately addressed at future meeting Planning Board
marine use
occupancy Strengthen the requirement Not much support
Marine Use Replace with annual report of General agreement, Staff ready to
Inventory “significant development.” Add recommend to
needs confirmation Planning Board
periodic broad “assessment of
the marine economy” at future meeting
Parking Some issues to be covered with Not yet discussed Needs a dedicated
the Performance Standards meeting
Permitted Uses Restricting some uses from areas Not yet discussed WWG discussion
subject to marine use
requirements (outside of more
permissive Overlay areas)
Performance Combine NM parking, functional Not yet discussed WWG discussion
Standards utility, and Marine/N-M
compatibility standards under a
single standard. Create a
submission requirement for an
“access management plan”
Suggestion to limit pier edge
occupancy by Non-Marine uses
Lot Coverage, Suggestion to limit both Not yet discussed WWG discussion
Building size
Enforcement Likely, no ordinance changes, Not yet discussed WWG discussion
but will explore better reporting
and education
Non-zoning issues to be addressed separately