Council adds Magic site to tax abatement zone

By Jerry Creel, Community Development Director

This week in economic development the Biloxi City Council voted unanimously to add the former Casino Magic property and structure to the tax abatement district. This action will allow the developers of the property to apply for a tax abatement on any improvements made to the existing structure that will increase the assessed value. Any new structures built on the property would be eligible as well. The new owners have announced that the property will be developed into a hotel with 373 rooms, restaurants, and a water park, with additional plans for future expansion. This announcement will bring a much needed family entertainment venue to east Biloxi, while restoring one of the two remaining blighted buildings left from Hurricane Katrina.

Also this week, we completed the plans review for Jimmy Johns Restaurant on Pass Road. We received the Architectural plans for the New Walmart Neighborhood Market to be located on Popp’s Ferry Road, and 4 new single family houses. The building permit was issued for Butler Homes New Sales and Construction Office to be located on Lorraine Road, and Certificates Of Occupancy were issued for the Coast Urgent Care Center on Reynoir Street and the Pie Five Pizza Restaurant in the Hard Rock Casino.