LINCOLN- State lawmakers gave first-round approval to a measure that would allow communities, by a public vote, to provide a generous tax benefit for unique retail developments. There was very little mention, however, of the “Good Life District Economic Development Act” during the debate over LB1317, a combination of several bills advanced from the Revenue Committee.

Instead, most of the discussion focused on one of the aspects of LB1317 that dealt with installing electric-vehicle charging stations. It has generated a fight between service stations and public power over fair competition and who should be allowed to build the stations. Sen. Brad von Gillern, a co-sponsor of the bill, said he will introduce an amendment during second-round debate to resolve some remaining issues surrounding the Good Life Districts.

Already, the state has OK’d two potential districts, one at Nebraska Crossing near Gretna and another at 192nd Street and West Dodge Road in Omaha called Avenue One. Bellevue and Grand Island are also seeking Good Life District designations. To qualify, a development must cost at least $500 million, attract new-to-market retailers, like Crate & Barrel and IKEA, lure 600,000 visitors a year and generate at least 20% of its sales from out-of-state shoppers.

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