TD Council Gives Google Agreement green light on tax abatements

By Tom Peterson

The Dalles City Council unanimously approved Google tax abatements for two new data centers to be built at the former aluminum smelter site in the Port of The Dalles at their regular meeting Monday, Oct. 25.

No one spoke in opposition to the deal and only two people spoke during public comments.

The decision came at around 8 p.m.

The agreement could abate some $147 million in property taxes during the 15-year terms. 

The agreement also captures 50 percent and 60 percent of total property taxes - which is much more than past Google deals for data centers in The Port of The Dalles.

The agreement could generate up to $120 million over the lifetime of the 15-year timelines, according to Mayor Rich Mays. 

The money would be paid in reduced property taxes and fees.

During the meeting, it was pointed out that Google would currently be the largest taxpayer in Wasco County if you included its enterprise zone agreement payments that total $2.85 million annually. 

Councilor Tim McGlothlin also noted Google had contributed $500,000 to North Wasco County School District for new computers and $150,000 for a 1-week autistic program. Google assisted with the new children’s wing at The Dalles Library, assisted in STEM programs, provided mobile internet access to people who cannot afford wifi and it helped with the maker movement to develop skills and entrepreneurship.

He added that Google bought high caliber and quality people into the community who were willing to give of their time on community projects.

What’s Next 

Google, The City of The Dalles and Wasco County will submit applications for the agreement with the Oregon Business Development Department which has 20 days to approve or deny the deal. 

If approved, taxing districts will have 90 days to determine how to divide the Community Service Fee cash that Google will pay annually. 75 percent of the taxing authority of those tax districts must agree to the plan.