Explanation
Background: This legislation authorizes the expenditure of $200,000 to the Department of Development in support of the Exterior Renovation Grant Program. The purpose of the program is to provide assistance to small businesses for the purposes of improving the appearance of commercial corridors throughout the City of Columbus. Façade improvement will enhance the appearance of the business as well as lead to business growth and development. Similar services are available for businesses located in the Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization (NCR) Areas.
As part of the Small Business Roundtable Initiative, which engaged business leaders throughout the City of Columbus, Columbus City Council proposed funding, in 2013, for services such as the Exterior Renovation Program.
Façade improvements for the program may include signage, lighting, doors, windows, masonry and carpentry repair and other services needed to improve the exterior façade.
Emergency action is requested in order to provide support to the Exterior Renovation Program thereby preserving the public health, peace, property, safety and welfare.
Fiscal Impact: This ordinance authorizes an expenditure of $200,000.00 within the Development Department. Funding for this program will be transferred from the general fund citywide account.
Title
To authorize the expenditure of $200,000.00 to support the Department of Development’s Exterior Renovation Program; to authorize a transfer within the general fund; and to declare an emergency ($200,000.00).
Body
WHEREAS, Columbus City Council has provided support for exterior and interior renovation services to small businesses; and
WHEREAS, Columbus Council supports efforts to leverage city resources in support of Columbus’ small businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Development plans to provide assistance to the small business community through the Exterior Renovation Program; and
WHEREAS, grants will be provided to small busine...
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