Residential TIF District – Strengthening Our Neighborhoods

The City of West Frankfort is taking bold steps to invest in our future — and that starts with revitalizing our neighborhoods. Through the creation of a Residential TIF (Tax Increment Financing) District, the City aims to provide financial tools that support home improvements, encourage new residential development, and strengthen community infrastructure.

The Residential TIF focuses on areas in greatest need of reinvestment, where aging homes, vacant lots, and infrastructure challenges have slowed growth. Over the next two decades, a portion of property tax growth in this area will be reinvested directly back into the neighborhood — helping homeowners and future residents thrive.

At this time, the TIF program is still being finalized. No applications are being accepted yet, but the City is committed to keeping residents informed every step of the way.

What will the residential TIF offer?

Once launched, the Residential TIF District is expected to offer a range of resources aimed at improving housing and neighborhood conditions, including:

• Home Rehabilitation Grants – Financial support for eligible homeowners to repair or upgrade existing structures.

• Incentives for New Construction – Assistance for developers or individuals building new homes within the TIF boundary.

• Infrastructure Upgrades – Projects such as sidewalk repair, drainage improvements, and lighting enhancements.

• Targeted Redevelopment – Efforts to address long-vacant or blighted properties.

These tools are intended to stabilize property values, reduce vacancy, and promote long-term investment in the heart of West Frankfort.

The City will provide full eligibility guidelines, funding amounts, and application instructions once the program is officially launched.

Click here for a draft copy of the proposed West Frankfort TIF III District Plan.

What is a TIF District?

TIF stands for Tax Increment Financing. It is a tool that cities use to support redevelopment in areas that are underdeveloped or declining. A TIF district captures increases in property tax revenue (called the “increment”) over a set period and reinvests that money back into the district.

Where is the Residential TIF District located?

The Residential TIF District includes neighborhoods within the TIF District III Boundary Map, previously approved by the West Frankfort City Council. This area includes some of the city’s most distressed housing and infrastructure conditions.

Why was this area selected?

This part of West Frankfort was selected due to:

• High levels of vacancy and blight

• Low property values

• Issues with crime and flooding

• Aging infrastructure and housing stock in need of investment

What does the City plan to do with the TIF funds?

• TIF revenues will support:

• Grants or forgivable loans for home rehabilitation

• Incentives for new residential construction

• Infrastructure upgrades (drainage, sidewalks, lighting)

• Beautification and safety improvements
  
  The goal is to increase property values, reduce vacancy, and support neighborhood revitalization.

Will this raise my taxes?

No. A TIF district does not raise your property tax rate. It simply redirects the increase in property tax revenue that results from improvements into projects within the district.

Can I apply for funding to improve my home?

Yes — the City will be launching a residential rehab grant program and may also offer incentives for new home construction. Details on how to apply will be available soon on the city website and at City Hall.

How long will the TIF last?

The TIF District is established for a 23-year term, which is standard under Illinois law. The City may review and adjust priorities during that time based on results and community feedback.

How can I learn more or get involved?

• Visit westfrankfort-il.com for updates

• Contact the Mayor’s Office at 618-932-3262

• Attend City Council meetings and upcoming public information sessions

When will applications open?

The Residential TIF program is not active yet. The City is currently completing the required review and approval process.

📅 The next step is a Joint Review Board Meeting to be held on:

Tuesday, May 13, 2025
1:00 PM
West Frankfort City Hall – Council Chambers

This meeting is part of the formal TIF creation process, and all required taxing bodies will have the opportunity to provide input before the district is finalized.

Following this, the City Council will consider an ordinance to establish the TIF District. If adopted, the City will publish program guidelines and begin accepting applications at a later date.

In the meantime, residents and property owners can explore the draft plan, review the proposed district boundary map, and follow updates here on our website.

For more information, contact City Hall at (618) 932-3262 or visit us at 605 W. Main Street

A Joint Review Board meeting has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 1pm at City Hall.