Hooper City Council is exploring innovative financing options for a crucial sewer lift station project, following a detailed economic and fiscal impact analysis presented during their recent meeting on August 7, 2025. The analysis highlighted the need for approximately $2.5 million to fund the lift station, which is essential for accommodating future development in the area.

Council members discussed the potential use of property tax increment financing (TIF) as a means to support the project. However, it was noted that the willingness of participating taxing entities to approve such financing remains uncertain. The analysis indicated that while property tax could be a primary funding source, other revenue streams, including sales tax, may also be necessary to cover the costs if TIF is not approved.

The discussion also touched on the concept of impact fees, which could be levied on developers to help defray costs associated with the sewer lift station. Currently, Hooper City does not have an established impact fee for this infrastructure, prompting the need for the council to consider crafting a new fee structure. The analysis suggested that developers should pay a proportional share of the lift station costs based on their demand for sewer services.

In addition to TIF and impact fees, the council explored the possibility of establishing a public infrastructure district. This approach would create a separate governing body to manage funding for the sewer lift station, potentially alleviating financial risks for the city and its taxpayers. This district could utilize tax increment revenue and special assessments on property owners to finance the necessary infrastructure improvements.

As the council continues to deliberate on these options, the urgency of addressing the sewer lift station's funding remains clear. The decisions made in the coming weeks will significantly impact Hooper City's ability to support future growth and development while ensuring that the financial burden is equitably shared among stakeholders.