Subject
The planning commission recommends a 50% match for exterior improvements at 371 E Hurlburt Avenue.
Summary and Background
The Hermiston Urban Renewal District has received a facade grant application for exterior improvements to commercial property located at 371 E Hurlburt Avenue. The property owner proposes to convert the existing labor union office building into a nail salon with several accessory retail uses. The proposed renovation will replace the existing siding, add landscaping, replace windows and doors, replace gutters, replace the roof, and replace the fencing. The estimated budget for all of the exterior renovation is $29,000. This budget is based upon estimates received from contractors as required by the policies of the urban renewal district.
The planning commission reviewed the grant application and interviewed the applicant at the April 11, 2018 meeting. The planning commission scored the application using the criteria established for determining the percentage of grant match. The planning commission's scores determined that the project is eligible for a 50% match. However, matches are capped at a maximum of $10,000 except in the case of an extraordinary investment within the district exceeding $75,000. Since the project estimate is $29,000, the reimbursement will be capped at $10,000.
Tie-In to Council Goals:
Downtown revitalization and pursuit of urban renewal is one of the goals established by the city council.
Fiscal Information
The grant will reimburse a maximum of $10,000 towards facade improvements. There is a total of $18,000 available for facade grants in the 17-18 fiscal year and another $50,000 available in the 18-19 fiscal year.
Alternatives and Recommendation
Alternatives
Approve the grant with a 50% match
Modify the match percentage
Deny the grant award
Recommendation
Staff recommends the urban renewal board approve the grant with a 50% match.
Requested Action/Motion
Motion to approve the grant award with a 50% match, not to exceed $10,000.
Submitted By: Clinton Spencer