The Weatherford City Council meeting on November 19, 2024, featured a significant discussion regarding a facade grant application for the property located at 124 York Avenue. The property owner, represented by a local contractor, expressed concerns over the denial of the grant application, which was based on the timing of construction relative to the approval process.

In August 2023, the property owner submitted applications for facade grants for two locations: 108 South Main and 124 York Avenue. While the application for 108 South Main was approved, the city placed the facade grant program on hold pending the York Avenue Improvement Project. The property owner was informed that 124 York Avenue was in queue for future consideration once the program reopened.

Construction on 124 York Avenue commenced in mid-spring 2024 and was completed by August 31, 2024. The building is now leased to Arts and Letters bookstore, which has reportedly generated significant sales since opening. However, when the property owner submitted a new facade grant application with updated documentation, the city staff recommended denial, citing that construction had begun before the grant approval.

The property owner argued that they were under the impression that their application was still valid and that they could resubmit once the program reopened. They highlighted a perceived inconsistency in the city’s handling of grant approvals, noting that another property that began construction prior to approval was granted funding.

The representative urged the council to reconsider the application for 124 York Avenue, emphasizing the economic benefits the bookstore brings to the city through sales tax revenue and increased foot traffic to the area. The discussion underscored the challenges faced by property owners navigating city grant processes and the importance of clear communication regarding program timelines.

The council's decision on the facade grant application remains pending, with the property owner hopeful for a favorable outcome that would support ongoing investment in the community.