EDTA backs Main Street application for Grama Community Building revitalization grant

The Pryor Economic Development Trust Authority voted to allow Main Street to apply for Oklahoma Department of Commerce Main Street incentive funding to renovate the Grama Community Building, with conditions tied to other pending grant decisions.

The incentive program provides up to $150,000 per fully designated community, matched by local funds. EDTA members discussed using the $150,000 incentive with a $150,000 local match to create a $300,000 renovation package for the municipally owned Grama Community Building. The application deadline is Sept. 30.

Trustees and staff discussed timing and funding paths during the meeting. EDTA staff said applicants should not spend match funds before grant award, and that if the city receives a separate, substantially larger “legacy” grant (an $8.4 million award discussed by staff), those proceeds could tie up the EDTA’s fund 68 and affect the local match. Staff said the legacy-grant round-2 announcement is expected on the 12th of the coming month; if the legacy grant is awarded, the EDTA would need to reassess reliance on fund 68 for the Main Street match.

Staff described other potential funding sources if both grants were awarded or conflicted, including city proceeds from property sales and private partners. Main Street will pursue design assistance and structural reporting from Oklahoma Main Street and confirmed the incentive program recurs annually.

The EDTA approved a motion to proceed with the application and directed staff to make the application contingent on the conditions discussed.