Athens City Council met Monday to consider the authorization of documents needed to create and implement the Athens Community Improvement Corporation, or ACIC.
If passed, the ordinance would allow Athens to utilize the ACIC as an economic development tool.
Councilmember Sarah Grace, D-At Large, said the ACIC could acquire and improve properties, construct and equip buildings, incur debt and issue revenue bonds to carry out the city’s development plans. It would also promote the welfare of citizens, stabilize the economy and provide employment.
Grace also said the ACIC would create and preserve jobs and employment opportunities within the city of Athens.
Mayor Steve Patterson said there are a number of projects in which the ACIC would be helpful. One project is the redevelopment of the Athens Armory.
Patterson also said the ACIC could assist in applying for things the city does not qualify for, such as historic tax credits. Additionally, he said the ACIC could help with the disposition of properties in which previous plans did not work.
