The Southtown Subdivision is taking shape as the Kalona City Council approved multiple resolutions and ordinances relating to the development project at Monday’s council meeting. The 283 acres of land from 133rd Street to Nutmeg Avenue was voted unanimously to be considered as an urban renewal area. This was done in case the council wanted to use Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for economic development. Due to it being used as a church before, 99 percent of that area had been exempt from property taxes, making TIF an efficient option for the city. The council also approved the first reading of an ordinance allowing the city to levy property taxes from future residents of the Southtown Subdivision.Two public hearings will be held in September that will discuss further details of the subdivision development. On September 1 at 7 p.m., the Planning And Zoning committee will present and look to establish re-zoning guidelines for Southtown. Then on September 8 at 7 p.m., the council will discuss the development agreement and tax increment payments with Southtown Subdivision developer CJ Moyna and Sons.