Red Bank approves application to Tennessee Downtown/Main Street program with $15,000 local match

The Board of Commissioners voted to authorize an application to the Tennessee Downtown (Main Street) program by approving Resolution 26‑1868.

Director Slade told the board the program provides structured technical assistance, market data, and storefront improvement guidance intended to activate downtown spaces and support small businesses. "In short, the Tennessee Downtown's program offers Bridal Bank businesses not just a tool, but a unified pathway to grow together in a revitalized resilient downtown," Slade said.

Key program details presented to the board: the program is a two‑year cycle; the application requires a local match of $15,000 (described as a 50/50 match), with matching funds expected to be budgeted in fiscal year 2027 and likely expended in year two; the application deadline is Feb. 27 and staff anticipate award notifications in April. Slade described typical year‑one work as education and planning and year two as implementation of a committee‑chosen downtown project; examples discussed included wayfinding, storefront improvements and lighting.

Commissioner Terry Holmes moved to approve the resolution; Commissioner Fairbanks Harvey seconded. During discussion Slade said the city and a steering committee of eight downtown business owners will complete the application and, if unsuccessful this cycle, the program's materials will still inform local planning. The board voted in favor and the presiding chair announced the motion carried.

During subsequent citizen comment a resident asked for a centralized place on the city website to find department and project information; staff said departments maintain web pages and capital projects are listed under public works and that staff are expanding content.

The board will finalize the grant application details at a meeting next week, and staff said the packet would be posted on the city's website once complete.