Freeport City Council on Oct. 1 approved a Freeport Economic Development Corporation (EDC) grant program that will make up to $300,000 available in FY2025–26 to reimburse small-business improvement projects.

The council voted to approve a resolution authorizing the EDC program after a presentation from Robert Johnson, EDC director. The program reimburses 50% of documented, qualifying costs for categories that include façade, sign and general property improvements (up to $10,000 per category), fire-suppression improvements (up to $25,000) and signage (up to $3,500). The EDC also will offer one competitive “mega” grant of up to $30,000 to be awarded annually each February. Applications are reviewed individually by the EDC board as received.

Why it matters: EDC leaders said the program is intended to promote development, retention and expansion of businesses in Freeport and to help recover businesses affected by Hurricane Barrel. Council members pressed staff for details on outreach, prior-year spending and program mechanics.

Key details and council questions: Council asked how applicants learn about the grants; Johnson said outreach includes personal visits, the EDC website and business development breakfasts (typically twice yearly). Council asked whether the EDC used the full $300,000 in the prior year; Johnson said they expended nearly the entire allocation. Councilmembers discussed whether the single $30,000 mega grant should remain singular or be expanded; staff confirmed eligible businesses may receive reimbursements in separate categories in the same year (for example landscape + façade + property improvements can total $30,000 across categories), but a recipient of the $30,000 mega grant may not also take the mega grant and category grants in the same year (the mega grant is an either/or choice).

Outcome: Council approved the resolution unanimously. Johnson said the EDC board had conducted a public hearing with no opposition and recommended the program.

Votes at a glance:
- Resolution to approve the EDC Local Business Improvement Grant program (EDC request up to $300,000 for FY25–26): Approved unanimously (4–0 recorded; roll call recorded as "motion carries unanimously").

Speakers quoted or referenced in this article were identified in the meeting transcript and include Robert Johnson (EDC director) and council members who asked follow-up questions. No additional legal authorities were cited during the council discussion.