Oskaloosa council approves downtown improvement grant program offering up to $50,000 per project
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Summary
A resolution to advertise the Core Downtown Improvement Grant Program passed. The program would reimburse up to $50,000 for qualifying exterior building improvements with a 50% owner match (20% for architectural/engineering services), to be administered by a review committee of city, chamber and Main Street staff.
The Oskaloosa City Council voted Nov. 3 to advertise and begin accepting applications for a new Core Downtown Improvement Grant Program that would reimburse up to $50,000 toward qualifying exterior improvements to existing downtown buildings.
Under the program plan presented by staff, most work would require a 50% owner match; architectural and engineering services would require a 20% owner match. Program applications would be reviewed by a committee composed of city staff, chamber and Main Street representatives; that committee would make recommendations to the council for final approval.
Councilmembers and Main Street representatives discussed whether the program should require occupancy or a lease within a year for vacant buildings; staff said the program plan does not require immediate occupancy, but will include a formal agreement and program requirements when grants are awarded. Councilmembers praised the program's potential to address structural needs (for example, rear walls and foundations) and to provide incremental assistance rather than full building restorations.
Council approved a resolution to advertise the program and begin accepting applications. Staff said the program will be advertised and committee procedures established prior to awarding grants.
