SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve recommended changes to the North Greenwood Commercial Grant Program and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same.
Body
SUMMARY:
Staff recommends updating the North Greenwood Commercial Grant Program with the proposed outlined changes below. These updates aim to create a smoother grant process for all stakeholders. On April 7, 2025, these recommended changes were presented to the North Greenwood Community Advisory Board and received approval to proceed to the CRA Trustees for consideration
Recommended Updates:
• Add language to allow community service hours waived, be added back to the total grant amount, not to exceed $75,000 - to provide clarity to the language of the grant program. (Page 4, under Community Service Credit)
• Remove the requirement for certain CPTED improvements to be approved by the Police Department. (Page 5, under Exterior Improvements, #14)
• Remove language under ineligible for assistance: “Improvements covered under the City’s Façade Improvement Program.” (Page 6, under ineligible for assistance, #2)
o This change allows applicants greater flexibility in accessing funding for a broader range of eligible projects, reducing barriers and streamlining support for property enhancements
• Remove the provision requiring grants exceeding $30,000 to be approved or denied by the Trustees. (Page 6, section 6, #2)
• Add language stating that for grant funding up to $75,000, the CRA Director will approve or deny the application.
• Add language to state this grant program can be used as Owner Equity to satisfy the Owner Funding requirements of other city-managed financial assistance programs. (Page 7, #12)
o This change enhances applicant leverage by allowing CRA grant funds to be used as Owner Equity toward meeting funding requirements for other city-managed financial programs, thereby increasing access to broader financial resources.
• Updated Notary
• Updated the Project Detail Budget form
• Additional Formatting
These updates will improve customer service, enhance clarity, and remove barriers for applicants.
STRATEGIC PRIORITY:
1.5 Embrace a culture of innovation that drives continuous improvement and successfully serves all our customers.
3.1 Support neighborhood identity through services and programs that empower community pride and belonging.
