Facade money prompts spending
City’s business grants fuel $1.5 million in work
A $400,000 city grant program has led to nearly $1.5 million in investment around the city, Mayor Tom Henry said Thursday.
Henry touted the city’s facade grant program as a kind of stimulus package for small businesses looking to improve their buildings. He said he had hoped the grant would double the investment size but was pleased the total projects nearly quadrupled the city’s investment.
"They are truly the growth engine of our city," Henry said of small businesses.
The city awarded grants to 21 businesses initially, ranging from $4,000 to $40,000. Because project costs were less than projected, the city was able to add five projects to the list.
Stacey Smith, president and CEO of Prairie Quest, said her company would not have been able to afford to move to its new building on East Berry Street without the city’s help. The company received a grant of $25,597.50 for a $275,500 project. She said the company would have otherwise moved into a building too small for its needs.
The $1.47 million in total investment includes facade and indoor improvements to the businesses, but the city grants were allowed to be applied only to facade work. The facade projects totaled more than $1 million.
One of the recipients was Anthony M. Henry, the mayor’s brother, who will receive a $4,250 grant to improve property on Wells Street. The mayor’s office previously reported that the mayor’s brother sought the grant under the normal process and met the criteria.
Julie Sanchez, a city redevelopment specialist, said the grant money came from local income tax revenue. She said it is unknown whether the city will be able to offer a similar program next year.
Men followed him in little packs, looking for a chance to slip into his company and shake his hand or pat his back.