R2026-80 Resolution Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds for the Business Façade Program

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ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT No. 2026-29 April 6, 2026 TO: Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe and City Council Members FROM: Melissa Hon, City Manager Lacie Elzy, Director of Economic and Community Development Kirsten Born, Grants Manager SUBJECT: Resolution Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds for the Business Facade Program SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that this item be approved to allow assistance for a minimum of 4 businesses with exterior façade improvements. BACKGROUND: In the beginning of 2025, the Economic and Community Development Department started the Business Façade Program. An eligible "façade" is the front face or elevation of the building, which typically faces the street and contains windows and the principal entrance to the building. This program offers a repayment matching grant of up to $25,000 of the approved project costs, with a minimum project cost of$5,000. This program, using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) federal funds, has geographic restrictions to low- and moderate-income communities. This program has seen a large interest with all current funding allocated. Using revitalization funds allocated in the city's FY 2026 budget, allows this program to expand to businesses that would otherwise not be eligible for funding under our federal programs. Staff will focus on businesses in the areas outlined in the Economic & Community Development Department's revitalization plan starting with the Oakwood Business District. SCHEDULE: Staff is prepared to open applications after council approval. Once an agreement is in place with the business, the business has 6 months to complete the work. POTENTIAL OBJECTIONS: Staff is not aware of objections. STAFF REFERENCE: Should the City Council have any questions; they may contact Lacie Elzy at 217-542-3559 or lelzy@decaturil.gov, or Kirsten Born at 217-424-2797 or kborn@decaturil.gov. BUDGET/TIME IMPLICATIONS: