As the town of Bluffton closes on about seven acres across from CareCore National headquarters, its officials say a newly formed public development corporation could play a major role in using the purchase to expand its vision of a technology-focused business park at Buckwalter Place. The purchase, divided between a 2.63-acre parcel directly across from the Don Ryan Center for Innovation’s front window and another 4.57-acre plot across from the police department complex, doesn’t close until March 8, when town officials will detail the price. Utility tax credits and not taxpayers’ dollars will be used to pay for the land.
The addition brings the park to about 30 acres, and according to town officials, will help Bluffton better negotiate with companies interested in moving to town. It also could mean more jobs and more tax dollars for the town as it attempts to become a hot spot for technology companies.
Mayor Lisa Sulka said. "When the town owns land, we are able to compete with other areas to attract companies and jobs. Land gives the town a competitive edge when we are able to offer options to companies to reduce their initial relocation investments."
Since 1996, state law has allowed utility companies and electric cooperatives to redirect funds that would have gone to the state in the form of fees to local infrastructure projects by municipalities and counties. Town leaders won't reveal the land's total price until March 8 when it expects to close the deal.
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