The Troutdale City Council hopes to bring in new businesses by waiving sewer fees for new restaurants opening or expanding in Troutdale.
TROUTDALE, Ore. — Starting a business, especially a restaurant, can cost thousands of dollars. To attract businesses, the city of Troutdale is offering a big incentive for restaurants wanting to expand or start from scratch.
The Troutdale City Council recently voted to waive 100% of the sewer System Development Charges (SDCs) for new restaurants relocating to Troutdale, or for restaurants currently there who are looking to expand in the city. SDCs are one-time fees paid by business owners when they open up a new business or expand or modify facilities.
Troutdale Economic Development Coordinator Marlee Boxler said the funds are coming from the city’s general fund to offset the costs for restaurants.
"The sewer SDCs are very expensive for restaurants because they use a lot more water," Boxler said.
Two years ago, …