HomeMy WebLinkAbout[08a] Business-BFA Grant Request . CITY OF ST. JOS�PH
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DATE: July 17, 2013
MEMO TO: Economic Development Authority
Administrator
Judy Weyrens FROM: Cynthia Smith-Strack Municipal Development Group
Mayor RE: BFA Grant Application: Retail Therapy
Richard Schultz
Councilors Background:
Steve Frank Kayla Welz-Schulzetenberg is leasing the property at 111 College Avenue North. She will be
Bob Loso opening a specialty retail boutique and d.b.a. Retail Therapy.
Renee Symanietz
Dale wiok Ms. Welz-Schulzetenberg contacted me regarding a Business Fa�ade Architectural Program
grant. I met on-site with her to discuss proposed improvements and changes eligible for BFA
EDA consideration. Ms.Welz-Schulzetenberg is preparing for an August 10th opening.
Doug Danielson
Steve Frank At the time of drafting this memo Kayla is working on getting estimates for signage and
Larry Hosch landscaping and working her full time job as a therapist, and setting up the store. She has
Gary Osberg assured me she will have her application and supporting materials to City Hall on Friday (July
Dale wick 19th). In addition, she witl be attending the EDA meeting on the 24�h ababout 5:30 p.m. The
application and supporting materials, if not included in your packet will be distributed at the
meeting.
As directed earlier in the year, I have previewed the proposed work under BFA grant guidelines.
I am confident the scope of work including brick sealing, exterior painting, signage, and
landscape planters is suitable for a matching BFA grant. The exterior sealing and painting has
been completed or is in process as the weather is a determining factor and grand opening
advertising has been ordered.
Upon reviewing the proposed activity and meeting on-site with Welz-Schutzetenberg I find:
• The proposed projects are eligible items — faCade and landscaping as they are both
visible from a public right-of-way. Both appear consistent with the intended goal to
further revitalization/renewal efforts.
• Signage is an eligible but npt sole expense.
• The property is current with taxes and assessments.
• The property is zoned commercial and is consistent with the City's Zoning Ordinance
and Comprehensive Plan.
The EDA's 2013 capital allocation included funding for BFA Grant applications and other
revitalization efforts. The balance is sufficient to cover this BFA application. BFA program
oversight and authority for grant approval was delegated to the EDA.
Action:
EDA consideration of the grant appl�ication is kindly requested.
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