Smithville, MO - In a contentious development, the 110 Smithville Tax Increment Finance (TIF) project is under investigation for serious and significant violations of the Missouri Clean Air Act. Located prominently at West Main and Mill Streets, the project, spearheaded by 110 Smithville, LLC, promises a sprawling mixed-use complex. Environmental concerns surfaced regarding the project's execution. The old Spelman Hospital, was determined to have contained asbestos and was slated for careful abatement during demolition. The centerpiece of the project involved the demolition of the historic Spelman Hospital, making way for a 65,450 square-foot complex. This ambitious plan includes 7,800 square feet designated for commercial, residential, and restaurant use on the ground floor, alongside 57,650 square feet allocated for studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments, totaling 85 units.
However, sources allege that proper asbestos removal procedures were not followed due to cost constraints even after being advised of proper procedures by an official of the Missouri Air Pollution Environmental Unit. The concern by residents was that that the building was not draped in Canvas. The report by the Department of Natural Resources stated the construction crews failed to undergo a wet demolition to prevent asbestos from being blown by the wind onto the surrounding property. "It's too expensive for him to do it properly," claimed a certain self-appointed environmental watchdog, warning of potential health risks to the community.
The inspection conducted on August 27th, 2024, concluded that 110 Smithville LLC committed three violations:
1. failed to notify inspection teams of additional areas that contained asbestos that were not contained in the original evaluation.
2. Failed to inspect 108 West Main Street and the associated garage for the presence of asbestos prior to beginning demolition.
3. Failed to remove all regulated asbestos-containing material prior to demolition of the site.
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Criticism has mounted against 110 Smithville, LLC, alleging financial impropriety and environmental negligence. A significant portion of the project's funding, sourced from TIF funds, has drawn ire for diverting resources away from local public schools. "This development by 110 Smithville, LLC, took TIF money away from our public schools and is not protecting our community!" voiced concerned residents.
Further fueling controversy are allegations of political favoritism. Eric Craig, an owner of 110 Smithville, LLC, reportedly donated $10,000 to Mayor Damion Boley's campaign in 2024. Shortly after the election, the City of Smithville controversially sold three city-owned land parcels to 110 Smithville, LLC, raising eyebrows about potential conflicts of interest. Allegations have been made that the Smithville City Council did properly vet the development company before approving it for TIF appropriations.
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| Eric Craig pictured in the back of the abolished complex |
With a September 9th deadline to meet TIF compliance criteria already pass, pressure is mounting on 110 Smithville, LLC, to rectify these alleged issues swiftly or possibly risk losing vital taxpayer-funded incentives. The race to demolish the building has intensified amidst community calls for transparency and accountability. This lil rock managed to make contact with the Levy-Craig Law Firm, listed as the registered agent of 110 Smithville LLC. However, their representative stated they are unable provide comment on the investigation at this time.As tensions escalate, Smithville residents remain divided over the 110 Smithville TIF project's impact on their community's future. With stakeholders on all sides demanding answers, the debate over public funding, political influence, and environmental stewardship continues to unfold in this small town with big questions.
By Josiah Bechthold
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