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Slinger RDA to continue façade grant program, members propose raising cap to $10,000
Summary
The Slinger Redevelopment Authority voted to continue its downtown Façade Program using available tax-increment funds and instructed staff to draft guideline changes that would raise the maximum grant from $7,500 to $10,000, allow projects completed before applying if documented, and require applications within six months of completion.
The Slinger Redevelopment Authority voted Sept. 3 to continue its downtown Façade Program using available tax-increment revenue while directing staff to draft updates to the program's guidelines.
Village Administrator Margaret Wilber told members the Village had committed nearly all funds originally allocated for the program but continues to receive inquiries from downtown property owners seeking façade assistance. The board agreed to keep the program active using available tax-increment dollars to support additional applications.
Members discussed a recent application for 140 Kettle Moraine Drive North that was completed before the applicant sought grant reimbursement. Administrator Wilber said the work noticeably improved the downtown street frontage but lacked before-and-after documentation required under current program language. The board directed staff to contact that applicant to amend the submission so it is limited to exterior improvements and to review the amendment administratively rather than bringing it back to the RDA.
On guideline changes, members asked staff to draft simpler language stating that grants may cover up to 50% of a project's total cost and proposed raising the maximum award from $7,500 to $10,000 "subject to funds available." They also asked for language allowing projects completed prior to application to be eligible provided applicants submit documented evidence of the property's condition before and after renovation, and that applications for completed projects be submitted within six months of completion.
The motion to continue the Façade Program using available tax increment was made by Dianne Retzlaff and seconded by Dean Otte; the minutes record the motion as passed. The RDA also approved a separate motion, made by Angelina Iturrian and seconded by Sherry Schaefer, directing staff to contact the 140 Kettle Moraine Drive North applicant and to review any amended application administratively.
Staff will prepare draft revisions to the Façade Program Guidelines for the RDA to review at an upcoming meeting.
