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How can we assure that TIF is used appropriately and that TIF districts do not take on a life of their own? Since there is no approval agency other than the municipality itself, it is up to the community and the taxing bodies to be involved in developing and overseeing the TIF plan to make sure it meets the requirements of the law and the needs of the community as a whole.

TIF projects are made better by shining the light of day on them, whether through journalism, actively engaged advisory groups, participation in public hearings, or letters to the editor with varying points of view. This will help ensure that TIF projects do more than pass the snicker test. - Lynn Tolle Burger, The State Journal Register