City launches Small Business Accelerator, updates motel rehabs, Club Pheasant and PHLA application

Tracey Michael, director of the Economic Development and Housing Department, gave a multi‑topic director’s report that highlighted the launch of the Small Business Accelerator program, progress on motel rehabs and supportive housing operations, an exclusive negotiation agreement for the Club Pheasant site, and the city’s application for Permanent Housing Local Allocation (PHLA) funds.

Michael said the Small Business Accelerator is funded in part by Measure N and includes multiple components. She highlighted a food and beverage facility enhancement grant that offers up to $15,000 in reimbursement for eligible expenses to help prepare restaurants and food businesses for increased foot traffic related to the athletics’ season. She said the city has already received four applicants and described program eligibility as businesses with 15 or fewer full‑time equivalents and annual gross…