Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Small Business Support topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Columbia Heights EDA approves fire suppression grant for Sister Bud at 4014–4016 Central Ave NE
Summary
The Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority approved a Fire Suppression Grant Agreement for Sister Bud LLC to fund installation of a sprinkler system and a 6-inch water line extension at 4014–4016 Central Ave NE; staff recommended a $23,800 award and the resolution passed unanimously among members present.
On June 1, 2026, the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority approved a Fire Suppression Grant Agreement authorizing grant support to the owners of 4014–4016 Central Ave NE (Sister Bud LLC) to help pay for a required fire suppression system and a 6-inch water line extension. The motion to approve Resolution 2026-17 carried with all ayes of those present.
Community Development Coordinator Emilie Voight told commissioners the program was created in 2022 to help small commercial property owners cover the high cost of installing fire suppression systems when changes in use or code require them. Staff reported three contractor bids for the water line extension and associated work—$59,900, $86,700 and $56,200—making the project eligible for up to $28,100 in grant assistance under the program. Voight said the EDA’s 2026 Fire Suppression Grant allocation was $100,000 and that $74,068.50 remained available for awards.
Voight said staff recommended funding the Sister Bud application at $23,800 rather than the full eligible amount to avoid exceeding a typical $50,000 per-owner cap; commissioners did not propose amendments. Commissioner Rachel James noted the applicants are both the property owners and prospective business operators; staff confirmed that to be the case. Voight also told the EDA that Sister Bud previously received $26,200 in 2025 for a different property but did not proceed there because that lease changed ownership and terms.
The resolution authorizes staff and officials to finalize and execute the Fire Suppression Grant Agreement with the property owners. No public comment on the item was recorded. The EDA’s action preserves grant balance for other applicants while enabling the installation that staff said will modernize the building and improve public safety.
The EDA approved the resolution unanimously; the City will proceed with executing the agreement and administering the grant as allowed under program guidelines.
