Madison Says Middleton Using TIF To Steal Jobs | News

The city of Madison said that Middleton is trying to use the state Legislature to help it lure jobs away from Madison.

The issue is over tax incremental financing (TIF) districts, which expire after a certain amount of time.

Middleton wants legislators to make an exception and extend the timing of one of its TIF districts so it can bring Spectrum Brands and other businesses into Middleton.

Spectrum announced last month that it will move from Madison to a new building in Middleton.

Middleton officials said they're also working with ETC and two other possible employers who plan to expand into Middleton.

"We are struggling to find the economic tools to accommodate all four major expansions in the next three years," said Mike Davis, Middleton city administrator.

Middleton officials said they need the TIF district to be extended for 10 additional years to help with storm water management, parking issues and other things related to the new employers coming in.

But the city of Madison said that's not fair and, in essence, Middleton is using the Legislature to steal jobs away from Madison.

"It changes the playing field. It puts the state in a position where it is affecting competition within municipalities, and I do not believe it is healthy. It is not healthy, because it is not fair," said Madison Mayor Paul Soglin.

Soglin said this request by Middleton is one example of why TIF, as a whole, needs to be restructured at the state level.

He said it's state's responsibility to keep the playing field fair, and the extension Middleton is asking for is doing the opposite.

A public hearing was held on the TIF extension request Thursday but no decisions were made. The bill still needs legislative approval. Middleton officials told the committee that even without the TIF extension, they'll do all they can to bring those businesses to their community.