Agenda

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City Council Regular Meeting

Meeting Date:

05/25/2021

BACKGROUND

The owner of the property at 537 Main Street is applying for a Local Flavor Grant. The owner is in the process of converting the structure from a residence into a business - the Purple Pig Restaurant. The grant is for up to $20,000 of matching funds for a range of eligible expenses in the different categories. This includes a roof, and air conditioning system, plumbing, electrical, landscaping, concrete and potentially signage.

On November 10, 2020 City Council approved resolution 20-R-132 approving a local Flavor Grant for this property and owner for up to $20,000 for a variety fo categories of work. The applicant recently submitted a request for payment for this grant for facade and site improvements which is process of being paid. The applicant is submitting for another grant for additional work he is about to begin on an addition and demolition of the interior, etc. Per the approved guidelines, the applicant is allowed to apply for this additional grant. However, the wording of the grant states that "no more than $20,000 in grant may be received per property per year". So while more than one grant has been approved for properties in the past, those grants have generally been applied for and paid in different years. In this case, the applicant is wanting to be paid for both in the same year. Staff is comfortable doing that in this case, as the intent was more about applying for grants than being paid.
Staff is going to propose to the Main Street Committee that they recommend to City Council amending the guidelines to clarify this and cap a property at no more than 2 grants for up to a total of $40,000 over a 5-year period.

GOAL

Promote and enhance commercial activity along Main Street to promote the economic, cultural and general welfare of the public. The area around Main Street in Schertz once served as the commercial and social hub of the community. The City seeks to improve the image of the area around Main Street
through the inducement of public money to promote local economic development and stimulate business and commercial activities in the City.

COMMUNITY BENEFIT

Encourage the attraction of small businesses that will create local charm and help develop a sense of place in and around Main Street. Promote commercial development. Stabilize and improve property values. Foster civic pride. Strengthen the economy of the City by protecting and enhancing the attractiveness of the Main Street area to residents and visitors, as well as provide support of local businesses.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTION

Staff recommends approval of Resolution 21-R-50 approving a Schertz Main Street Local Flavor Economic Development Grant for up to $20,000 for 537 Main. Staff is proposing to pay the applicant during 2021 if the work is completed during 2021, but has made clear the applicant would not be eligible for a grant in 2022.

FISCAL IMPACT

Up to $20,000 for the grant.

RECOMMENDATION

Approval of Resolution 21-R-50

Attachments
Resolution 20-R-50
537 Main Agreement