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Committee approves District 7 façade grant program to reimburse small business improvements
Summary
The committee approved a District 7 façade grant program funded with district discretionary and older bond funds to reimburse eligible small businesses up to $50,000 for permanent capital improvements; staff will administer grants as reimbursements with a grant agreement.
The Economic Development Committee approved a District 7 façade program that will use district discretionary dollars (and some 2017 bond funds) to reimburse eligible small businesses for permanent façade and related capital improvements.
Heather LaPesca of Economic Development described the program and eligibility criteria; grants will reimburse up to $50,000 and, for projects under $25,000, the city would reimburse up to 80% of project costs. Robin Bentley and other council members noted bond funds must be used for capital expenditures with useful life beyond the bond term. The program will be administered by application and grant agreement; businesses must register as vendors, complete eligible work, submit invoices and then receive reimbursement.
Committee members discussed whether signage would be eligible (permanent painted and lit signs are eligible) and whether the program should expand citywide; Vice Chair Ridley said it should begin as a District 7 pilot and could be broadened later. The motion to approve carried.
