The Carroll City Council voted to expand the downtown façade grant program, if only slightly, at their meeting earlier this week. The council previously allocated $100,000 to be used for five $20,000 grants to support businesses in the downtown district in sprucing up their exteriors. City Manager Aaron Kooiker says they received seven applications, but the total was still very close to the original $100,000.
Applicants include Vita Suite/A Fun Top & Jeans for $20,000, Eckerman Jewelry for $16,247, Jena Bug Baby Boutique for $12,500, Glik’s for $6,407, Artworks Studio for $7,519, Toploft Clothing for $20,000, and Carroll Area Child Care Center and Preschool for $20,000. At-Large Councilman LaVern Dirkx says he recently attended a League of Cities meeting in Jefferson that highlighted a program there that closely resembled this effort.
A significant difference between the two cities’ programs is Carroll’s is funded using tax dollars, while gaming revenues from the nearby Wild Rose Casino primarily back Jefferson’s. At-Large Councilwoman JJ Schreck sought clarification from Kooiker on how often these grants could be awarded to the same entity.
The council voted unanimously to add $2,674.91 to the program and approve all seven applications. Later in Monday’s meeting, the council further discussed economic development programs in the city. Kooiker noted that the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) again did not award Carroll a “Thriving Community” designation, which makes housing tax credits to developers in town. Ward 2 Councilman Jason Atherton argues the city lacked a cohesive plan, while Ward 4 Councilwoman Carolyn Siemann says the city isn’t being aggressive enough.
Video of the Monday, June 23, meeting is included below.
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