This week, Memphis Metropolis takes a deep dive into Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and in particular, a proposal to use the tool for the revitalization of South Memphis. Our guests are Reginald Milton, Shelby County Commissioner and executive director of South Memphis Alliance, and Andy Kitsinger, principal of Development Studio. The proposed TIF district is being spearheaded by the Soulsville USA Neighborhoods Development District, a broad community coalition made up of nonprofit organizations, neighborhood associations, faith leaders, and institutions. 

Later in the program, Charlie Santo pays a return visit to Memphis Metropolis to talk more about how TIFs work here and in other cities,  whether there can be too many TIFs, and what other tools can accomplish some of the same objectives. We also debate whether or not it is ever appropriate to utilize the tool in an affluent area, such as the recent (and controversial) TIF district established in East Memphis. 

Resources

Soulsville USA Neighborhood Development District