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Livingston URA approves downtown enhancement program guidelines with edits
Summary
The URA approved a revised downtown enhancement program guideline, adding an explicit requirement for owner approval in applications and clarifying that applicant labor is not a reimbursable cost; the board directed follow-up review with a consultant.
The Livingston Urban Renewal Agency approved a redlined revision of the downtown enhancement program guidelines with two requested edits: add explicit owner approval language for applications and clarify that applicant labor is not a reimbursable project cost.
Board members reviewed the updated application language and recommended edits to ensure clarity for applicants. One board member proposed changing the application requirement for proof of real property interest (ownership or lease) to read “ownership, lease agreement, or written owner approval.” The same member asked the guidelines to state that “time spent by the project owner or people working on the project is not reimbursable,” describing personal labor as an in-kind contribution rather than an eligible reimbursement.
At least one board member also asked staff to consult with consultant Brianne for a red-flag review and suggested that staff provide input on whether any provisions could be a barrier to participation. Chair Allison Vicenzi said she would meet with Brianne and bring any recommended adjustments to a future meeting.
After discussion, a motion to approve the downtown enhancement program guidelines with the stated changes passed unanimously. Board members emphasized that applicants would still be required to bring projects back for board approval and that application materials must demonstrate property interest or owner authorization. The board also noted that façade and residential rehabilitation programs have different procedural practices; staff said façade reimbursements historically did not require a participation agreement before reimbursement, while residential rehabilitation grants would likely use owner participation agreements and may include deed restrictions.
Implementation steps include updating the application form to include “written owner approval” where appropriate, publishing the revised guidelines and beginning outreach so projects can be executed in the coming summer season.
