Business Retention and Development Committee Agenda and Packet 2020 07 06

Home Browse Search

SUBJECT: LOUISVILLE'S RECOVERY & IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROPOSAL DATE: JUNE 19, 2020 PAGE 2 OF 4 Consistent with the Emergency Solutions Grant program, the EVC should determine the target audience eligible for Louisville's Recovery & Improvement Program. Reasonably, the applicants should be actively licensed, brick -and -mortar businesses within the City of Louisville, but we may also wish to allow owners of commercial properties to apply if the project meets the determined criteria and is improving a Louisville commercial space. Staff recommends we require that business applicants must currently have their business open and again, be current on all City accounts at time of application. If there are other eligibility factors to consider (size of business, length of time in Louisville), those should be determined and listed clearly in the application. As the EVC and City Council experienced with grants, the most difficult part is developing consistent and objective criteria. However, the time spent in development also makes the review and approval process much more efficient and shows the applicants the program is fair and transparent. Below are criteria for the Committee to review and consider: • Project provides for restructuring, retooling, or implementing best practices in a business operation, consistent with public health guidance for physical distancing or sanitation • Project enhances the exterior appearance of the building fagade with improvements such as painting, awnings, and permanent signage • Project allows business to purchase new interior or exterior furniture and fixtures to accommodate appropriate physical distancing • Project improves the physical tenant or building space to accommodate operational or service changes, such as take-out windows or creation of outdoor patios • Project creates or reformats a special event that is of general benefit to the Louisville community and meets current public health requirements for public gatherings • Project supports a collaboration between two or more Louisville businesses seeking to offer a unique product or community service Recovery & Improvement Program Process The existing BAP has a streamlined structure. The applicant reviews program criteria and completes a one -page application. Staff reviews the application for completeness, often coordinating with the applicant for additional information. Based on data provided and type of project, staff then makes an estimate of potential rebate incentives. The recommended incentives are reviewed with the City Manager. Once there is consensus, staff drafts an agreement, which is reviewed and agreed -to by the applicant before proceeding. Staff presents the application for business assistance, including a proposed resolution and agreement to City Council. If approved, staff continues to work with the applicant on process steps, including calculating the rebates at the appropriate time and issuing payment. Agenda Packet P. 11