Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Be Grant Haven House topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council denies BE grant for Haven House after eligibility debate
Summary
The council voted to deny a BE grant request for Haven House, citing questions about eligibility under a program designed for for‑profit retail businesses and mixed views about whether residential/service improvements qualify.
A motion not to approve the BE grant application for Haven House carried after councilmembers debated whether the applicant fit BE grant eligibility criteria, which staff materials describe as designed for for‑profit retail businesses.
Councilmembers noted the applicant's owner, Valerie Smith, could not attend the meeting. EDC and council members questioned whether improvements (concrete and parking to improve resident access) meet the program's retail focus. One councilmember said improvements could raise property value and "enhancing the overall community property too," but others pressed that the program was intended for retail and retail‑style storefront improvements.
After discussion the councilmember moved not to approve the BE grant; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote, denying the request. Council asked staff to clarify BE grant eligibility criteria in future materials.
