It appears The Mall at Greece Ridge will be getting a controversial tax break on the redevelopment of the former Bon Ton site. But first, the Greece Central School District must approve an 11th hour counter-proposal from the Mall's owner.

Wilmorite is seeking tax breaks to demolish the former Bon Ton wing of the Mall at Greece Ridge and replace it with new retail and restaurant space. The Greece Central School District opposed tax breaks because it believed if approved, those breaks would take tax revenue away from the district.

During the public comment session at the beginning of the COMIDA meeting, Joe Shields, the attorney representing the District, announced there was a counter-proposal on the table.

"We've been in negotiations with the company, we've had several sessions with the company. This morning at 10:30, the company made a new offer to the school district. It made significant movement and we appreciate that and I'm going to the school board for its review and consideration," said Shields.

COMIDA voted to approve this plan in principle pending the school board vote. Wilmorite has agreed to increase its payment in lieu of taxes or PILOT from a proposed 0.8 percent to two percent.

"Yesterday, we had a work session and that seemed to be that that is what they would agree to," said Judy Seil, COMIDA executive director, "so I think in theory the developer's come back, said 'we want this deal to work, we want to make the investment in the community' so I think we're ready to go."

Even though Shields said he would present the new proposal to the school board tonight, a district spokesperson said a vote on the plan is doubtful as it is not on the agenda.