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HRA approves $24,000 Spark grant to help Kumon retrofit Holmes Lane space
Summary
The Edina HRA voted 4–1 on July 16 to approve a $24,000 capped Spark reimbursement to Kumon Math and Reading Center owner SK Lowe to pay for ADA upgrades at 7271–7275 Holmes Lane so the building can be split for a second tenant.
The Edina Housing and Redevelopment Authority voted 4–1 on July 16 to approve a Spark streamlined grant agreement that will reimburse up to $24,000 for accessibility and retrofitting work at 7271–7275 Holmes Lane to allow Kumon Math and Reading Center to occupy one of two subdivided tenant spaces.
Bill Neuendorf, the city’s economic development director, told the board the Spark program was created using unallocated commercial TIF dollars and is designed to move quickly for small businesses. Neuendorf said qualified construction costs for the Kumon project total about $71,000 and the program provides a capped $24,000 reimbursement once the work is complete and certified. “The streamlined grant is intended to be simple and straightforward to really work at the pace of small business,” Neuendorf said.
Owner SK Lowe, introduced by staff, described the Kumon center’s long presence in Edina and said the small reimbursement would help cover ADA restrooms and an accessible entrance. “The Kumon has been in place since 1991…if there’s any way to help us, that would be great,” she said.
Commissioner Pierce moved to approve the grant and Commissioner Agnew seconded. Commissioner Christian Risser voted against the motion; the chair announced the motion carried 4 to 1. The board’s action commits the city to reimburse up to $24,000 after the owner completes the specified work and provides documentation for a certificate of completion.
The Spark program expires at the end of 2026, Neuendorf told the board, and staff have modified agreements to ensure projects start and finish before the program terminates. Neuendorf said the city’s Spark budget originally totaled about $10.2 million from unallocated TIF receipts, roughly $8.6 million has been paid to complete projects, and about $248,000 is currently obligated but not yet reimbursed; the Kumon commitment is included in those obligations.
The action was framed as a reimbursement agreement only: the owner must scope the work, hire contractors and complete the improvements before the city issues funds. Neuendorf and the chair emphasized the program’s intent to preserve local small businesses and keep them in Edina while the program wind-down is coordinated to avoid overpromising on unfinished projects.
