To: Mark R. Hafner, City Manager
From: Mary M. Culver, Director of Economic Development
Subject:
Title
Consider a resolution amending the City of Keller Façade Improvement Grant Program Policy approved by Resolution No. 4037, on September 18, 2018, by amending the policy criteria and process of the Façade Improvement Grant Program.
Background:
This program was first established in 2009 as a matching grant opportunity for businesses and property owners in Old Town Keller, up to $5,000. This program has since been updated in 2010 and 2013 to clarify regulations in the policy. Program participation began dwindling in 2016 and an update was approved by City Council in 2018 to expand the program, making it available to commercial property owners, citywide. This update increased participation in 2019, however, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted program participation in 2020 and 2021.
Financial Impact:
The budget for this program is $35,000 per fiscal year, however, fund utilization has decreased in recent years. The proposed policy update is intended to increase participation in the program to utilize these funds, but does not include an overall budget increase.
Citizen Input/Board Review:
The Keller Economic Development Board (KEDB) discussed updating the Façade Improvement Grant Program Policy at their January 18, 2021 meeting and tabled the item to incorporate new eligible improvements for further consideration. These updates and additional staff recommendations were discussed at a KEDB work session on April 19, 2021.
Economic Development staff sent a survey to businesses and property owners that had previously applied for this grant, soliciting feedback on their experience with the grant program and the proposed updates consolidated from the KEDB work session on April 19th.
A separate survey was sent to all Keller Businesses to gauge program awareness and interest based on the proposed updates. 37 businesses responded to the surveys, including 4 that had previously applied for the grant program. The top challenges of attracting applicants for the program were identified as the two bid component, including Keller business, finding qualified Keller contractors, contractor qualification forms and providing matching funds.
The KEDB considered the policy as presented on May 17, 2021 and recommended approval of the update to City Council with a unanimous vote of 6-0.
Alternatives:
City Council has the following alternatives:
- Approve as submitted
- Approve with changes
- Denial