The Sugar Land 4B Corporation Board approved a performance agreement to reimburse Dinani Private Equity Group about 20% of a $363,000 facelift at 1st Colony Commons, board members heard at their meeting.

Staff presenter Jonathan described the proposal as a comprehensive set of site improvements that include a $238,000 lighting upgrade (replacement of pole-mounted fixtures and wall-mounted units), parking-lot restriping and pressure/soft washing. "The total project cost here is 363 k with a request from the SL 4B for 20% of that at about 69,000," staff said. The applicant, Nikhil Dinani, identified himself as president of Dinani Private Equity Group and was present for the discussion.

Why it matters: staff and the Economic Development Committee recommended the 4B incentive because they argued the lighting work is an electrical-infrastructure upgrade that produces a measurable public benefit for the 30-acre center. Jonathan said the center draws millions of visitors annually and that the improvements would enhance pedestrian experience, safety and tenant visibility.

Terms and conditions: the agreement requires construction to begin within six months of execution and be completed within one year after notice to proceed. Reimbursement is contingent on submission of permits, receipts and a written approval from First Colony Community Services Association (the property owners association). Staff told directors that although pressure washing and restriping are required as part of the performance agreement, the 4B reimbursement amount is limited to the agreed portion (approximately $69,000) and the full package of work must be completed to qualify for payment.

Board questions and concerns: Director Stuart pressed whether the project amounted to routine maintenance given the center’s reported ~90% occupancy, asking, "It seems like this is just maintenance." Staff responded that the Economic Development Committee and legal counsel reviewed the application and concluded the scope — particularly the comprehensive lighting replacement across the property — met the program’s public-benefit threshold.

Code compliance and performance metrics: staff said the city requires a city permit and a photometric plan to ensure the new LED fixtures meet city lighting standards and do not create light intrusion into nearby neighborhoods. The applicant said the plan is to replace yellow fixtures with white LED lights and to add additional heads to improve brightness.

Next step: the board moved and approved the agreement during the meeting. The reimbursement and final payment will be processed after the city and POA review the submitted permits and documentation. The motion passed and staff will execute the performance agreement per the stated terms.