Two development issues to be decided by Moline Council tonight

During the regular council meeting, aldermen will vote on a development agreement with Autumn Trails LLC to facilitate the redevelopment of the former Bethany Home property at 220 11th Ave.

The $8.1 million project would include the a 25-unit assisted living center and construction of 32 to 34 condominiums for people 55 and older.

Autumn Trails is requesting assistance from the city in the form of an incremental property tax rebate of up to $1.2 million.

Aldermen also will vote on spending $22,377 to buy decorative lights for the Centre Alley Courtyard from Republic Electric.

The courtyard will be located on 15th Street in the alley between 4th and 5th Avenues. The outdoor beer garden will feature decorative lighting and fencing and a stage area for live music.

The lighting is just one aspect of a $500,000 project that is a public-private partnership between the city and the surrounding business owners.

These are two laudable projects. But hurry, don't be the last one on your block to have your project or business improvement financed by the city.