Comments Being Sought for Extension of Facade Improvement Program

Replacement windows are an allowable expense

Photo: Ivan Radic via Creative Commons

SANFORD – Anyone interested in improving the appearance of downtown is encouraged to lend their support for extending a grant program to fix up storefronts, according to the Sanford Regional Economic Growth Council.

The City Council is scheduled to hold a required public hearing April 2 to gather comments about a proposed application for $100,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds, according to Mary Hastings, small business coordinator for the Growth Council.

Hastings said she is seeking comments from a broad cross section of the community about how the grant program would improve the downtown. The funds could be used for new windows, siding, signs and other approved uses and must be matched by an equal investment from the property owner.

Mousam River Bistro at 6 River St., RIGZ Properties at 880 Main St. and White Bark Properties on Washington Street are three downtown businesses that have already benefitted from an earlier facade improvement program. There is still an additional $25,000 available and three additional businesses are interested in applying, Hastings said.