Tempers flared and voices were raised as Des Moines council members and residents wrestled with the idea of adopting the Multifamily Property Tax Exemption Program for some areas of the city.

The exemption does not apply to the land or non-housing improvements.

The residential target area is the Pacific-Ridge area on Pacific Highway South.

It turned out to be a hot topic at the Jan 15, city council meeting.

"It lacks adequate safeguard and doesn't support social policy," said resident Mark Proulx."

Proulx added that he is philosophically disinclined to give handouts to anyone and that the city needn't be so compliant.

Fire commissioner James Fossos spoke about the safety hazards of high rises in Des Moines. Commissioner Fossos said he was there on his own behalf and was not representing South King Fire and Rescue.

"I think you're putting the general public at harm by not fully investigating," Fosses said. "The response level required is going to us away from other parts of Des Moines."

Fossos said he did not have the time to fully read the entire MFTE requirements, but speaking from 39 years of experience it sounded like a risky venture to him.

Other citizens were more concerned about tax dollars.

"It's private developers seeking free handouts from government," said resident Mysty Beal. "We don't get to vote on it, you do."

Beal urged the council to act in a fiscally responsible way and get assessments from both the Highline School District and South King Fire and Rescue.

"Voting on this is irresponsible," Beal said. "We're sick of bailing out billionaires."

Other residents were worried about the impact of an increased population.

"I'm concerned," said Valerie Constantino. "The new schools are beautiful but they are at capacity. Mt. Rainier has to turn kids away. We're 150 students over right now."

Constantino said building high rises would bring in more students than local schools would be able to handle.

"I can't imagine that 2,500 people are going to move in and only 45 children will be attending schools."

City planner Jason Sullivan said the exemption could only apply to a specific area with specific criteria.

The area is not known for attracting developers and according to Sullivan is a drug and crime infested area.

"A more pro-active approach is recommended to implement Pacific-Ridge redevelopment," added Sullivan.

"There is benefit to the developer because it makes his project more marketable," said realtor Michael Allan. "The benefit accrues to the renter and the buyer of the condominium and it makes development more attractive."

Allan said the long-term benefits would far outweigh the short-term tax exemption.

J.J. McCament, who has worked in four different communities that all have the exemptions, spoke in favor of it.

"This is a local decision, you already have the building blocks," McCament said.

McCament pointed out that Des Moines has already approved several measures that are favorable for developers, especially in the Pacific-Ridge Area.

McCament said in the neighborhoods were the exemption has been implemented; it has raised the standard of living and business developments in the area.

The council appeared divided with the meeting lasting for more than three hours without a decision on the proposal.

Mayor Pro Tem Dan Sherman and Councilmember Scott Thomasson both agreed that they would like to see more information before they could make an informed decision.

Other members remained silent, while others were disturbed by the public outcry.

"You're prejudging us as people who are reckless," said Councilwoman Carmen Scott.

Councilmember Ed Pina said it bothers him that people are not looking at the bigger picture.

The council decided to refrain from voting until they had more information. A public hearing is scheduled for Feb 26.