West Fargo residents ask me all the time about Special Assessments.  It goes without saying that the general attitude towards specials is that they are not very special.  Here is a quick overview of the common discussion points.

People would love to get rid of specials; however, the money still needs to come from somewhere.  That could be higher lot prices, higher utility fees, higher sales tax, higher state income tax, or higher property taxes.  So, we could get rid of specials, but we can’t get rid of the cost associated with the infrastructure they pay for.  Therefore, the money would simply come from a different pocket. 

So, what can be done to make specials more special (less painful)?  In my conversations it boils down to a few simple items.  First, the city must do a better job at communication around future projects.  Residents should be aware of what is coming so they can provide feedback on projects before they are started; it’s too late to protest a project when it’s done.  Better communication and transparency are a huge step towards improving the process.  No surprises.

Secondly, we must work to make sure that every property owner shares in the burden of special assessments. As I have previously written about, our communities previous decisions on annexation (or not to annex) have created inequities in how our infrastructure is paid for. Read more about Fair Assessments.

Finally, we must remember that every decision, amenity, and choice impact the final costs on projects.  A great example of this is the new pedestrian underpass at 32^nd Ave and Sheyenne Street.  This will be a beautiful feature/amenity when completed (see below) and it will provide a safe crossing to a busy road.  That said, it’s a big expense.  I wasn’t on the City Commission when this was decided but it’s a great example of choices that push Special Assessments higher.