Section 520.250  Application Evaluation and Ranking

a)         Ranking Applications. Consistent with Section 5.2(f) of the Act regarding which applications shall be approved and certified as Enterprise Zones, the Department shall rank the applications according to a scale ranging from insignificant to maximum value.  The applications will be ranked according to the following ratings:

1)         Maximum. A maximum rating will be given if the application meets all requirements of Section 520.220;

2)         Moderate. A moderate rating will be given if the application does not fully meet all of the requirements of Section 520.220, but does fully meet all of the requirements of Section 520.220(a) and (k);

3)         Minimum. A minimum rating will be given if the application minimally addresses all of the criteria specified in Section 520.220(a) and (k); and

4)         Insignificant. An insignificant rating will be given if an applicant meets none of the criteria of Section 520.220.

b)         Maximum Rating – No Guarantee. Maximum ratings do not insure that the applicant will be selected for designation.  The Department will conduct intensive evaluations, leading to zone designation decisions.  Department staff will conduct site visits and analyze application characteristics.  Site visits will address:

1)         Comparative Assessment. A comparative assessment of applications, particularly concerning plans to achieve economic growth and expansion, and neighborhood revitalization for zone residents, existing businesses, and new businesses;

2)         Verification of Information. A verification of application information; and

3)         Implementing the Applications. A determination of the ability of responsible local officials to implement the application as determined through an interview.

(Source:  Amended at 27 Ill. Reg. 3282, effective February 14, 2003)