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Director's report: facade work underway; LOI issued for 22 West Pearl with MEDC grant support
Summary
Staff reported facade restoration work began at 14 and 16 West Chicago Street under a DDA/MEDC-funded program and said an LOI has been issued for 22 West Pearl for a rural-eligible MEDC grant (49% share, up to $550,000); additional agreement amendments and an October progress report are expected.
During the director's report on Aug. 20, staff updated the board on downtown redevelopment and grant activity.
Audrey said facade restoration work has started at 14 and 16 West Chicago Street; Facade Restoration Inc. is leading the contracted work. The projects will be funded by a combination of DDA funds and a facade restoration grant administered through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Audrey warned that schedule adjustments are likely and said amendments to agreements could be brought to the board in September to account for timing and project changes; an annual progress report for that funding will be due in October.
Audrey also reported that a letter of intent (LOI) has been issued for 22 West Pearl. She said the LOI outlines eligibility for a rural MEDC grant at up to 49% of project costs with a grant cap noted as $550,000; the project will advance to a second phase of due diligence to complete construction drawings and secure permanent financing. Audrey said the proposed redevelopment at 22 West Pearl would create four apartment units and a ground-floor office space for Grace Roberts and partners.
Staff also outlined recruitment and orientation work for board volunteers, a delayed downtown quarter survey report (coming in September), fund-development templates and upcoming training opportunities coordinated with Southwest Michigan First. Audrey flagged involvement with a county childcare implementation team and mentioned county-level grant work to expand child care access.
Board members asked procedural questions about curb/curb-lock items and project timelines. Staff will return in September with potential agreement amendments and a completed survey report for board review and action.
