Manteca may temporarily reduce five growth-related fees to make it more economical to pursue infill development in the central part of the city.

If the City Council gives its blessing fees will be reduced:

*50 percent for government building facilities.

*75 percent for Public Facilities Infrastructure Plan transportation fee, park acquisition fee and park in lieu fee.

*100 percent reduction in the long range planning fee.

The fee reduction — that would be in place through June 30, 2025 — would apply to infill sites of less than 5 acres and if the overall square footage for non-residential projects is no more than 50,000 square feet.

Combined together the five fee reductions would result in about a 25 percent reduction in the cost of all fees that an infill project would be required to pay.

The so-called “infill opportunity zone” generally is bordered by Louise Avenue on the north, Union Road on the west, Wawona Street with a jog at Main to Industrial Park Drive on the south, and Garfield Avenue with a jog to North Fremont with a jog from Edison to Garden Gate Drive on the east.

It is as an area that is generally developed but still contains some areas of vacant or underutilized parcels that could be redeveloped and benefit the city and residents. The age of most structures within this area is over 50 years old, with many not seeing significant rehabilitation during that time.

Staff notes vacant parcels often depress surrounding property values and often attract crime, homeless camps, and other social issues.

The staff report notes development of these sites have significant social benefits by enhancing the appearance of the area, its vibrancy, community, and social connections otherwise not present. Similarly, the development or revitalization of these areas have environmental benefits by reducing development pressure in outlying areas, thereby improving air quality and reducing greenhouse gasses by reducing vehicle miles traveled.

Infill projects also have a significant economic benefit to the city by increasing property values, property tax, sales tax, and the creation of local jobs, otherwise not possible.

The City Council meets tonight at 7 p.m. at the Manteca Civic Center, 1001 W. Center St.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com