Moline Aldermen will discuss a proposed agreement with the Metropolitan Airport Authority of Rock Island that could mean years of expansion, growth and development for the city.
The agreement consists of the annexation of three properties located on airport land -- the Hampton Inn & Suites, the proposed Holiday Inn Express site and the land that the armory is located on.
"It's good for the airport because it brings stability to their utilities," said Moline Planning and Development Director, Ray Forsythe.
"Moline wanted to have property annexed into their city if they're going to run water and sewer to any new properties," said Bruce Carter, Director of Aviation, Quad City International Airport.
If approved, the agreement enables Moline to take advantage of property taxes along with water, sewer and sanitary revenue. The city will also receive a 7% hotel-motel tax that goes toward tourism and the general fund.
And, from now on, many businesses that build on or near airport property can have all the advantages of being incorporated in Moline.
"It's going to be great for everybody," Carter said.
City leaders are most excited about the annexation to the south of the airport, though --
"Potential growth for residential is south of the airport," said Forsythe. "We've had a long-term goal of growing the city and the only opportunity we have to grow is south."
Now that there is a proposed annexation on the south side of the airport, Moline has the potential to develop in that direction.
City council will discuss the agreement Tuesday night and vote on the outcome next week.
