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Keene board discusses small-business grant program for storefront and sign improvements
Summary
Board members proposed a small-business improvement fund for façade, signage and accessibility projects; staff said policy and eligibility rules must be drafted and the city attorney should prepare an informational packet referencing Texas Comptroller guidance.
Board members discussed creating a modest incentive program in this year’s budget to help Keene small businesses make minor exterior improvements such as concrete pads for trash cans, new signage, or façade repairs.
A board member suggested allocating a budget line to assist businesses that cannot afford small upgrades that affect street appearance and customer perception. Examples given included a concrete pad for trash receptacles at a local barbecue restaurant and a new sign at a gym whose old sign remained unchanged while the business occupied the space.
City staff explained that the Type A EDC can provide economic development incentives but that the board must adopt a policy outlining eligibility, evaluation criteria, award amounts and reporting requirements. Staff recommended drafting a policy packet and consulting the Texas Comptroller’s guidance on economic-development incentives; the city attorney could prepare proposed language for a formal program. Board members said they want clear criteria to avoid perceptions of favoritism.
Board discussion covered mechanics: whether awards should be a fixed dollar amount or a percentage of project costs, whether awards should require matching dollars, and how to prioritize projects that demonstrably increase business revenue. Staff said such a program would also need to be placed on the city council consent agenda for final approval if the board adopted a policy and recommended inclusion in the coming year’s budget.
Ending: The board asked staff and the attorney to prepare an informational packet and draft policy language for review and asked that the item be considered as part of the FY2025–26 budget process.
