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Hampshire board approves two façade grants amid budget questions; trustees urge program limits
Summary
Trustees approved two façade grants — $12,535.68 (75%) for a doctor's office masonry and storefront project and $17,002.31 (75%) for a downtown business called the Cave — but debated whether the 75% policy and repeat awards to the same property are appropriate given a $50,000 annual budget.
The Village of Hampshire board approved two façade grant awards after extended discussion about program rules and the village’s limited $50,000 annual budget.
Staff presented the first application from a doctor’s office (masonry repairs, awning replacement, a new commercial steel door, paint and planters). Eligible expenses totaled $16,714.24; the beautification recommendation of 75% resulted in an award of $12,535.68. A trustee moved to approve that corrected 75% figure; the motion passed by roll call, 6‑0.
The second application — from a downtown business referred to in the packet as “the Cave” — requested funds to replace nine windows (seven on the street side, two on Maple Street), complete tuckpointing and install a projecting sign. Trustees noted the business had applied multiple times over several years and asked whether repeated awards should be limited in future policy. Supporters said the business has become a community partner and has substantially improved the streetscape.
The board approved the Cave’s application at the 75% recommendation ($17,002.31) after trustees debated program size and the possibility of awarding a lower percentage; the motion passed 5‑1. Several trustees asked staff and the Beautification/BDC committee to return with an ordinance or clearer guidelines limiting repeat awards and clarifying application timing so the board can better manage the façade budget.
