Board tables Terrell Coffee Co. facade grant request after concerns over mural, scope and precedent

The Paddock (Downtown Improvement) board discussed a downtown façade grant request for 105 Westmore Avenue, known locally as Terrell Coffee Co., and agreed to table the application pending more detailed scope and cost information.

Raylan, development services/engineering staff, told the board the applicant’s quotes total about $20,000 and that a wrought-iron fence line item in the packet was $7,200. Raylan said the fence as proposed would “cover up the mural,” so staff proposed alternative measures — lower planters and lighting — that would provide separation without obscuring public art. “I think that we can work it out and still give her the patio space without blocking the other building,” Raylan said.

Board members split on reimbursement levels. Staff noted $75,000 was set aside for façade reimbursements this year; some members cautioned that approving 100% reimbursement for one applicant could create inequity for other property owners. One board member said the application “says build planters and wrought iron fence” and asked for clearer itemization of what the board would fund. Another asked for daytime photos to evaluate how the patio would function during operating hours.

The board also pressed the property-owner and tenant responsibilities for underlying building repairs such as subflooring and electrical work. Staff said the owner is addressing subfloor repairs and emphasized that the city cannot pick private contractors without a bid process.

Rather than vote, the board tabled item 6.2 and directed staff to return with a more finely tuned proposal, updated photos, a clearer cost breakdown (including what the Paddock board would fund), and contractor information so the board can evaluate precedent and fairness before deciding.