The developers showing that they are actively marketing is certainly a strategy that has been used to avoid paying higher taxes. The question is: How long will we as a community allow it to go on? It's time to vigorously oppose any further extensions, demand the higher tax rate and try, as a community, to force this development to happen. The project has stalled for years! Frankly, I think this is one of the best development opportunities to change that corner-- where drugs, litter, loitering and crime are prevalent -- to catalyze retail/restaurant development that would lift all the boats in the area... But these developers that are obviously in over their heads do a huge disservice to the community.
Hi Patsy - quick question, who in city government should we contact about opposition to another extension on "to be developed" tax rate? WOuld be very happy to do so.
I have never heard of a "to be developed" tax rate, but I would be interested to learn more. I can't think of vacant lots that are not DC owned, but I pulled numbers for the vacant lot at North Capitol and Florida, and two commercial properties in the next block. They are all three coded 002 -Commercial, with a tax rate of 1.65
1600 NORTH CAPITOL ST NW
Assessment $2,848,620
Annual Tax $47,002.22
Annual Tax $21,509.02 ( 2008)
1626 NORTH CAPITOL ST NW
Assessment $1,662,050
Annual Tax $27,423.82
1644 NORTH CAPITOL ST NW
Assessment $249,550
Annual Tax $4,117.58