The Springfield-based business plans to redevelop the former Diesel Dan's Truck Stop off Exit 2 of the MassPike, with a ground-breaking scheduled for September.
"That property has been an eyesore," said Selectwoman Patricia Carlino, explaining her support for the project and tax break. "They are investing between $21 and $23 million and part of the deal is they have to create jobs."
The special tax agreement calls for F.L. Roberts to receive no property tax bill the first year, with payments gradually increasing to full value after the 15th year. The agreement kicks in once the first phase of the project is occupied for business.
Company President Steven Roberts is planning a 93-room hotel and 210-seat restaurant. A new filling station, car wash and convenience store are to follow on the eight-acre site. He expects to complete the project within a two-year time frame.
In exchange for the tax agreement, F.L. Roberts must create 103 new jobs, 85 of them full-time positions. Local and state officials will monitor the agreement to make sure the developer lives up to its promise.
Roberts himself has said the project is not financially viable without the tax break.
However, some Lee residents have opposed the tax
They cited the property tax burden they currently bear, and which will get worse with the closing of paper mills by Schweitzer-Mauduit International and MeadWestvaco.
Resident David Bowers from the start has not been thrilled with the travel center.
"It will hurt our local restaurants, B & B's and inns," Bowers told the Selectmen during their meeting.
"I don't think the project will take away from our in-town business," replied Selectmen Chairman Gordon Bailey. "But it might hurt businesses in neighboring towns."
Bailey noted F.L. Roberts will pay considerable fees to hook up to municipal sewer service.
"They will still pay full water and sewer costs based on usage," added Bailey. "There's no tax break on user fees."
Lee Board of Assessors member Edward "Buddy" Briggs also pointed out, on June 20 when the Selectmen approved the agreement, that the town will gain short-term employment as well.
"The boom the first three years of construction jobs the project brings into town is not shown in the agreement," said Briggs.
Lee's annual town meeting in May gave the Selectmen permission to negotiate the tax-relief agreement, which was negotiated by the Assessors. The Assessors have said the land will still be taxed at its full value until the first part of the project is finished.
Any part of the property still waiting for development remains under regular taxation.
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