Balch Springs EDC approves appraisal funding and $10,000 facade grant; staff previews city-center plan and infrastructure grants

The Balch Springs Industrial and Economic Development Corporation (Type A) on April 14 voted to pay for an updated appraisal of a 14-acre EDC-owned parcel off Interstate 20 and to award a $10,000 facade improvement grant to Executive Hospitality LLC, owner of the Studio 6 hotel, while staff updated the board on a city-center master plan and several infrastructure grants.

Staff presented the appraisal request for EDC land identified in city records as 13049 Interstate Highway 20 (also referenced as 3850 S. Beltline Road). Staff said the parcel was last appraised in 2020 at about $1,400,000 (roughly $2.24 per square foot in that report) and recommended contracting with HS Miller for a current market appraisal so the city can begin negotiations with multiple developers who have expressed interest. The board approved funding for the appraisal and authorization to enter a contract with HS Miller; the motion passed unanimously.

The board also approved a facade improvement grant to Executive Hospitality LLC (Studio 6). Staff said the proposed exterior work would cost about $25,000; the EDC grant would cover up to $10,000 and the business would provide the remaining roughly $15,000. Staff noted the hotel contributes about $52,000 annually in hotel-occupancy tax revenue and has eight employees. Gary Patel, identified as part owner of the hotel, told the board the grant would help “re-make a fresh look to the hotel” and keep the property in better condition.

Why it matters: staff…