The Mandan Renaissance Zone Committee on Thursday considered the impacts of a proposed initiated measure coming before Mandan voters on Nov. 4 that would require all businesses benefiting from public funds to install electric doors for the handicapped.

They determined that if voters make the requirement, all future Renaissance zone projects would have to include the electronic doors. However, the committee said that amendments may be made after the vote for certain circumstances.

Some merchants have said the description of the ordinance requirements on the ballot are too broad.

Committee members will consult with an attorney about the electric doors for projects approved before the Nov. 4 vote if the initiated measure passes.

Board members considered a Renaissance zone application for Perry and Bonnie Schlosser of Schlosser Home Contracting Inc. and North Star Apartments at 604 First St. N.W.

The property is a vacant rental home, but the Schlossers want to convert the lot into commercial office space and shop on one half of the lot. The other half of the lot would be either office, a retail shop or combination.

Each half of the building will be about 2,800 square feet. There will be a common wall in the building that will allow the owners to rent or sell one of the halves.

The project will involve demolishing the existing home on the property which is across from the alley of Adventureland Video.

The committee asked the Schlossers to return with a plan which will include a strip of off-street parking.

The Schlossers also must obtain an architectural review for the project and the building must meet the required $55 per square foot investment for new construction.

The Schlossers are applying to receive property tax exemptions for five years and personal income tax exemptions for five years through the Mandan revitalization program that is allowed through the 1999 Renaissance Zone Act.

Ellen Huber, director of business development for Mandan, announced the new Renaissance zone brochures are complete.

The brochure lists tax incentives for commercial and residential properties within the zone, what are qualifying investments and details the application process.

Mandan's 28-block Renaissance zone spans between 10th Avenue and Mandan Avenue, and moves north slightly into Collins Avenue.

Commercial and business properties who qualify for a Renaissance zone project may be eligible for:

n Up to 100 percent property tax exemption for five years.

n 100 percent exemption from state tax on income derived from the business or investment location for five years.

n Transferrable exemptions with sale or lease.

Residential properties that qualify also may receive up to a 100 percent property tax exemption for five years and be exempt from state income tax up to $10,000 for five years. With these, transferrable exemptions are allowed with the sale.

(Reach reporter LeAnn Eckroth at 250-8264 or leann.eckroth@;bismarcktribune.com.)