Expanded SID Authority Clears First Round in Legislature
Sanitary and improvement districts could build off-street parking facilities under a bill that advanced from general file April 6.
Legislative Bill 81, introduced by Sen. Robert Hilkemann of Omaha, would enable SIDs to acquire, purchase, own, erect, construct, equip, operate or maintain off-street parking facilities.
The bill’s intent, Hilkemann said, is for businesses operating outside of city limits to provide parking for their employees and customers.
Commercial development projects in western Omaha need parking, but under current law, the SIDs governing the projects aren’t allowed to build it themselves, Hilkemann said. A developer testified to the Urban Affairs Committee that SIDs are tailored to build low-density suburban developments, so they are more limited in urban in-fill developments.
“These structures are to be built for the purpose of business,” Hilkemann said of the parking facilities.
Bellevue Sen. Carol Blood supported the bill. She said it would aid responsible development and foster affordable housing.
“Bellevue wouldn’t be Bellevue without SIDs,” Blood said.
Senators advanced LB 81 on a 31-0 vote.
The Unicameral Information Office is operated by the Clerk of the Legislature. Find additional coverage at update.legislature.ne.gov.
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