Chris Cross

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Incentives to attract businesses to Fort Lupton are not the same as tax breaks.

That’s according to Michelle Magelssen, the economic development manager for the city. She made her comments during a Fort Lupton City Council town hall on Jan. 31.

Fort Lupton is in the Weld Enterprise Zone, which means businesses that come to town are eligible for tax breaks. The amounts range from 1.5 percent for commercial vehicle investments to $500 for establishing a new business.

Magelssen emphasized that businesses eligible for incentives have to show some sort of impact on the community, such as an employment base or other contributions to the area.

“It’s not considered a subsidy,” she told councilors. “The intent is for them to stay or open a business here.”

Magelssen offered a couple of examples. One is a business that needs an extra 30 square feet of space but is in touch with another county or city.

“That would be worthwhile to consider,” she said. “Its application process is going to analyze the economics, plus any incentives paired with other programs that are available.”

“It’s a case-by-case basis,” said councilman Carlos Barron.

“What if there is a daycare business? It’s not going to generate much revenue,” Magelssen said. “But it’s definitely a need. That would be worthwhile to look at.”

Rec center bond update

City Administrator Chris Cross told the council the sale date for bonds to help expand the recreation center could be sold as early as March 22.

Voters approved a $10 million debt increase to the city (total repayment cost is $18.2 million at an annual repayment rate of $608,000 per year over 30 years) in November.

Cross planned to present a formal agreement to the council on Feb. 8, after press deadlines, outlining who could approve the bond pricing structure.

Liquor sales

City Clerk Maria Pena said a resident asked the city to waive the 500-foot rule between schools and places that sell liquor.

She didn’t identify the person, nor did she identify the business.

“I thought I should let you know there’s been an inquiry about it,” she told councilors.