A Pike County lawmaker’s plan to give communities another economic development tool has taken a step forward.

The proposal by Republican Jim Hansen of Frankford was referred Wednesday (Feb. 24) to the House Select Committee on Commerce.

It would allow all Missouri cities to set up tax-supported community improvement districts. Currently, only Kansas City may file the necessary petition.

Community improvement districts are not-for-profits or separate political subdivisions set up to finance wide-ranging public works projects.

If approved by voters in the proposed district, a tax could be levied to fund development efforts. Should voters reject the idea, it could not be resubmitted in the same area for a year.

No one testified against the proposal at a recent hearing. Hansen, Louisiana Mayor Bart Niedner and the Missouri Municipal League were among those offering support.