Frequently Asked Questions of the CDA
1. Who is on the CDA?
The Community Development Authority is made up of the Village President, one Trustee and five members of the community appointed by the Village Board. Their role is to work on economic development and redevelopment of the Village to ensure our long-term financial strength. The current member roster is:
Gregory Goetz , Village President
Matt Cmeyla , Trustee (Chairman)
Jennifer Bell
Ralph Benka
Jennifer Evan
Ryan Schwab
2. Why does the Village have a CDA?
The state of Wisconsin allows for the creation of a Quasi-governmental body to act as a economic development and redevelopment agency. They have certain powers granted by state law that are ultimately advantageous. But, it also provides for the Village to use the business acumen of its residents to make sound financial and business decisions that may not otherwise be available or would have to be paid for in a consultant.
3. How is the CDA funded?
The CDA receives an annual payment from the owners of the property of the Mills site on Maple Avenue, principle and interest payments from loans it has made and from the sale of investment property.
4. Does the Village have any loan or grant programs?
We do. We have a grant program known as a Revolving Loan Program administered by the State of Wisconsin as well as a CDA Loan Program for local properties wishing to upgrade. We are also working on loan/grant programs associated with the TIF District.
5. What is a Tax Increment Finance District (TIF)?
It is not a tax increase. It is the difference between the amount of property tax revenue generated before the creation of the district and the amount of property tax collected after the TIF District is established based upon new development. The “incremental” value created by redevelopment goes to pay for projects within the district such as adding streetscape features; lighting benches, etc, up-sizing utility capacity such as water laterals or sewer laterals, parking, or the economic difference between current land prices and the cost to redevelop.
6. What is a TIF eligible project?
The CDA will be taking up that subject in the coming months but in general any property within the TIF boundaries may petition the CDA for funding to improve their property or more specifically any project that adds value to a property may be considered. An example would be the Main Street Properties where the new value of the property will far exceed the previous values. A public example of a TIF project might be the purchase of property to develop a parking lot that serves the local businesses to make them and their properties economically viable.
7. What benefit would there be to have my property included in a TIF District?
It depends. If you are not planning on selling your property there may be no benefit to you, but also no harm. If you do wish to sell or redevelop your property there is the potential for receiving economic incentives to help make your project economically feasible.
8. When is the site on the corner of Waukesha Avenue and Main Street going to go move forward?
The Village is working with the new owner of the Mammoth Springs site to develop a mixed use of retail, offices and multi family housing. The developer plans to reclaim the quarry for public recreation, developing a walking trail, scenic overlook and green space. The many improvements to this site is the reason the CDA is looking to create a TIF district to help with some of the challenges of developing this site.
9. What is the Business Outreach Program and how do I get on the list for the CDA to visit my business?
The Business Outreach Program is designed to be mainly a listening session. We will come to your place of business with the Village Administrator, a member of the Chamber of Commerce and a CDA member to listen to you about your business and also to give you information on CDA and Village programs. It is a way to build a relationship. To set up a meeting you can contact the Village Administrator at jsmith@villagesussex.org or at 262-246-5200.
10. If I wanted to expand my business what would the process be and who do I contact?
It is best to contact Kasey Fluet in the Building department. She can guide you through the entire process and answer any and all of your questions. She might even help anticipate issues that can save you time and/or money. She can be reached at kfluet@villagesussex.org or at 262-246-5215.
11. If I wanted more information about the Village who should I contact first?
Your first point of contact should either be the Village Administrator or the Assistant to the Administrator. The Village number is 262-246-5200. Or you may contact the Sussex Area Chamber of Commerce at 262-246-4940 or at www.sussexareachamber.org.
12. What does the Chamber of Commerce do and how are they different from the CDA?
The Chamber of Commerce focuses on the business community. They are interested in development but mainly from the business side. They are a source of information and they help their members with issues such as employment, education and sharing of resources.
13. I own/manage commercial, industrial or office property within the Village and would like to advertise vacant space, how do I do this?
Contact the Village at info@villagesussex.org or call us at 262-246-5200 and ask for the Village’s web site coordinator.
14. How do I get involved in the Village's Flowers on Main Street program?
Currently this program is funded by the CDA and the Village tax payers but in the future we may seek local companies to donate towards their maintenance. We hope you like them, we do.
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