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Council updates downtown facade grant rules, keeps 501(c)(3) nonprofits eligible
Summary
The council approved committee-recommended changes to the Municipal Services District (MSD) facade and architectural grant program, adding application process clarifications while retaining eligibility for certain nonprofits. The update introduces wet-signature requirements, start/completion time limits and reimbursement procedures.
The Gastonia City Council voted to adopt updates to the Municipal Services District (MSD) facade and architectural grant program after the Central City Revitalization and Housing Community Engagement Committee recommended changes.
Key changes approved by the council include a required wet (ink) signature on grant applications (in addition to electronic submissions), a requirement that approved work commence within 90 days, and a 12‑month completion deadline or a return to council for extension. The committee also clarified that facade grants do not transfer automatically when ownership changes; new owners must apply for separate grants.
Committee members and staff discussed whether to exclude 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations from eligibility. After deliberation the committee recommended that nonprofits remain eligible if the property owner pays into the MSD tax base; two nonprofit-owned properties in the MSD had already received grants previously. Staff explained the grant is a reimbursement program and that applicants must supply proof of required permits with their applications.
Council vote: the resolution updating the grant guidelines passed 5–2. Staff noted the grant application window opens July 1 each fiscal year and grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Council members asked staff to continue outreach so eligible property owners — particularly small businesses — are aware of the program and application steps.
Officials said the program’s purpose is to enhance the public-facing (exterior) appearance of buildings in the MSD and the surrounding public realm; interior work is not eligible. The committee and council retained flexibility to revisit eligibility rules in future if community feedback indicates problems.
