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Peoria Heights approves two BDD redevelopment grants for Artemis Salon and Roof Tiger
Summary
The Peoria Heights Board approved Business Development District grants: $10,000 for Artemis Salon's renovation and a $10,000 forgivable‑loan style grant for Roof Tiger to cover signage and electrical work, with conditions and an extension for installation timing.
The Peoria Heights Board of Trustees voted to approve two Business Development District (BDD) redevelopment agreements supporting local businesses, the board said during Wednesday’s meeting.
The first measure, identified in the meeting as Ordinance 2024‑25, provides $10,000 in assistance to Artemis Salon (owner Lindsay Swischuk) toward a renovation project estimated at close to $400,000. Trustee Kazam described the owner’s investment as substantial and said the BDD funds are an appropriate investment in the corridor.
The second agreement supports Roof Tiger with up to about $20,000 in improvements for signage and electrical work; staff described the village contribution as a $10,000 upfront payment structured as a grant that could be forgiven over five years if the business remains in operation. Director Aldridge explained the forgivable structure is intended to protect village investment if a business leaves.
Trustees debated consistency of awarding grants to businesses that do not generate retail sales tax. One trustee said the board should consider prioritizing businesses that contribute sales tax, while others argued exterior beautification benefits nearby retailers and the district overall. Roof Tiger requested a brief extension to install permanent signage; staff indicated the agreement and administrator have discretion to grant that time.
Board action: Trustees approved both agreements on roll calls recorded during the meeting. One audience member offered to donate $5,000 to the fire department after hearing the debate.
What to watch next: Trustees flagged the need to tighten policy on repeat BDD applicants and asked staff to bring recommendations on consistency and eligibility criteria to a future meeting.
