Agenda

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City Council Regular Meeting

Meeting Date:

06/25/2019

BACKGROUND

The owner of the property at 533 Main which is the Bar House has applied for a Schertz Main Street Local Flavor Economic Development Grant. He is the first person to apply for this grant, though staff is in conversations with another property owner about applying for the Main Street grants. The application is for projects estimated to cost $35,818. The applications are for a facade improvement grant and a flatwork grant to repair the building's foundation and to do work to create an outdoor bar area. Staff is recommending approval of the grant and seeking council approval for up to $20,000. The grant program is 1 for 1 matching grant program, and although the current estimate for the work is only $35,818 of which the City would match $17,909, as staff has seen from past projects on Main Street, unexpected issues can arise creating additional costs, thus staff is seeking authorization to pay up to $20,000 of approved documented costs. If the project cost does not increase, the grant amount paid would only be $17,909.

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 an inducement of public money to promote local economic development and to 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 in the beauty and accomplishments of the past, and to promote the use of the historic structures for the culture, education, and general welfare of residents. 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 and stimulus to businesses.

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTION

Staff recommends approval of Resolution 19-R-75 approving the Schertz Main Street Local Economic Flavor Grant for up to $20,000 subject to the applicant entering into the incentive agreement with the City.

FISCAL IMPACT

Up to $20,000 for the grant.

RECOMMENDATION

Approval of Resolution 19-R-74.

Attachments
Resolution No. 19-R-75
Grant Agreement 533 Main