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Board approves mini grant for downtown signage and discusses broader beautification plan
Summary
The board approved a small "mini grant" application for storefront signage and discussed a proposed downtown assistance program to fund façade, awning and landscaping work, including volunteer painting and in-kind donations; the signage award amount was not specified in the meeting.
The South Carolina Economic Development Board of Directors approved a small grant application for storefront signage and discussed a broader downtown assistance program during its meeting at CSOGBN.
Board members voted to approve the application for signage, described in the meeting as the type of project typically funded by a "mini grant." Meeting discussion identified a $2,000 estimate for sign work but did not specify the final award amount in the record. Board members and staff described the proposed downtown assistance program as a separate, preliminary idea that would offer grants for painting, window and door repairs, canopy and awning replacement, and landscaping.
The director said the board could combine financial awards with in-kind donations and volunteer labor; the director suggested approaching local retailers and suppliers, including Home Depot representatives (named in discussion as Matt Keshe and Carrie), for donated paint and materials. Board members discussed using funds allocated for lighting to support multiple downtown businesses and suggested recruiting volunteers to carry out painting and minor exterior improvements.
During discussion members clarified that the application on the table was for signage and that the mini grant program is the usual vehicle for such awards. A motion to approve the signage application received a second and was recorded as passing; the meeting record does not specify who moved or seconded the motion or the vote tally. Meeting participants also debated whether applicants must appear in person before final approval; at one point a board member asked whether the applicant should be present and was told the applicant is required to appear for approval.
Board members framed the downtown assistance idea as a preliminary proposal rather than an item for decision at this meeting. Staff said the program would be brought back for further consideration and formal action at a later meeting.
The discussion included general references to coordination among downtown entities, the housing authority, and a cultural district; board members emphasized avoiding conflicts of interest when members have dual roles with other local entities.
A motion to approve the signage application was recorded as passing. Other details, including the specific award amount and the final eligibility conditions for the downtown assistance program, were not specified in the meeting record.
