Oregon Approves TIF Funding For Washington Street Project

OREGON – The Oregon City Council approved a tax increment financing agreement Tuesday providing up to $75,000 for renovations to the commercial building at 303 W. Washington Street. The former dentist office is being renovated for use as a retail clothing store. The project includes removing interior walls, making bathroom improvements to meet ADA standards and renovating the front of the building to restore a historic downtown appearance. The total estimated eligible project cost is $92,662, with the city’s reimbursement limited to $75,000. The council also approved a facade grant of up to $7,500 for the project. The exterior work is estimated to cost about $45,000, with the business owner putting $15,000 toward the facade work. City officials said the building has been vacant for about two years and its previous layout made it difficult to use as a retail space. The project is expected to provide space for Knee High, a locally owned resale shop offering clothing, toys and other items for children. The City Council approved both measures.