ACTION REQUESTED:
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Communication from the City Manager with a Request to APPROVE a FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Grant to UNES PRINTING for 619 SPRING STREET, in an Amount not to Exceed $5,000.00. (Council District 1)
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BACKGROUND: Unes Printing has operated a commercial printing business out of 619 Spring Street for nearly 30 years. The company employs five individuals and is seeking to make needed exterior improvements. The company is owned by Leonard Unes, founder of the company, and the business is being managed by his son.
The proposed improvements to the façade amounts to $25,000. This includes: a) removal of steel structure, b) installing metal siding on north building, c) tuck-pointing patches throughout the middle and south buildings, d) repairing and/or replacing soffit areas as needed, and e) replacement of a rear door. The City’s portion would amount to $5,000.
Façade grants are provided on the condition that: a) funds are available, b) proposed improvements are eligible, c) the project is approved by City Council, d) improvements are completed according to an agreement of code compliance, and e) receipts are verified for reimbursement.
Council has approved a Façade Improvement Program to assist with the revitalization of commercial buildings and neighborhoods. Grants reimbursements for 50% of eligible project cost up to $5,000 per property are made available for façade improvements. The Program is intended to encourage owners and business tenants of existing properties to restore or renovate their buildings, in order to improve the area’s physical character and enhance the aesthetics of the commercial environment.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: If approved, the City will reimburse the property owner $5,000 from the District 1 Façade Improvement CIP Project E14003 which has a balance of $13,665.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: No neighborhoods were contacted regarding the project.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: Unes Printing will be reimbursed $5,000 for the cost of the improvements. This will assist with revitalization efforts in the First District.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The project may be reduced in scope.
ALTERNATIVES: None
EEO CERTIFICATION NUMBER: To be issued prior to disbursement of funds.
WHICH OF THE GOALS IDENTIFIED IN THE COUNCIL’S 2014 - 2029 STRATEGIC PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION ADVANCE?
1. Grow Peoria: Businesses, Jobs, and Population
2. Attractive Neighborhoods with Character: Safe and Livable
WHICH CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S) FROM THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION IMPLEMENT?
1. Grow employers and jobs.
2. Reinvest in neighborhoods.
DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office