A recently enacted Florence ordinance is targeting building rehabilitation and economic growth.
The city council has allocated resources to its general fund to finance the Florence Business Building Façade Upgrades Grant Program.
“The purpose of this ordinance is to encourage rehabilitation and enhancement of buildings,” Florence Mayor Julie Aubuchon said, “to provide economic growth and investment; and to improve Florence’s desirability and long-term viability.”
The program provides financial incentives for building upgrades to businesses located in the Florence Main Street Overlay District and offers property owners a 50% matching grant, with a maximum grant amount of $10,000 for approved improvements to their buildings, according to the ordinance.
“We’ll learn, as time goes on, how much participation we’ll get and how much to budget in the upcoming fiscal year,” Florence Administration Director/City Administrator Joshua Hunt said, adding that $100,000 has been allocated for the program.
The actual grant amount awarded will depend on available funding, as well as the total number of applications received and property owners must submit a complete application with all required attachments to the program administrator for review, according to the ordinance.
Exterior improvements eligible for funding through the grant program include masonry repair; signage enhancing the building’s architectural design, compatible with surrounding businesses and buildings, and adhering to signage regulations; and façade restoration to return the building to its original appearance in cases of extensive modifications.
Click here to access the Florence Business Building Façade Upgrades Grant Program ordinance.