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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1-25-21 RICHARD WARREN, PRESIDENT DANNY EARP, BOARD MEMBER SHELLEY FULLER, BOARD MEMBER VACANT, BOARD MEMBER RACHEL COTTON, BOARD MEMBER NANCY OJEDA, VICE-PRESIDENT CHUCK ENGELKEN, BOARD MEMBER CITY OF LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION MEETING AGENDA Notice is hereby given of a meeting of the City of La Porte Development Corporation to be held on January 25, 2021, at the City Hall Council Chambers, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas, beginning at 5:00 p.m. to consider the following items of business: Social distancing protocols will be in effect in the Council Chambers. Remote participation is available, also. Attend via a screen using this link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85401691188?pwd=UGczdDVaV09iZzRsSWMxSitYdGVwQT09 Join by phone at 877.853.5257 or 888.475.4499. The meeting ID is 854 0169 1188. The passcode is 456439. 1.CALL TO ORDER 2.CITIZEN COMMENT (Generally limited to five minutes per person; in accordance with state law, the time may be reduced if there is a high number of speakers or other considerations.) 3.AUTHORIZATIONS (a)Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve the minutes of the August 24, 2020, meeting. [President W arren] (b)Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve an enhancement grant in the amount of $12,491.41 to the applicant, Bryan and Brandy Gwin for the building and sign enhancements for their business, Boats Etc., which is located at 331 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. [Jason W eeks, Assistant City Manager] (c)Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve an enhancement grant in the amount of $26,226.54 to the applicant, Mike Kinstley for the building and sign enhancements for his business, Precision Auto Repair, which is located at 405 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. [Jason W eeks, Assistant City Manager] 4.SET NEXT MEETING 5.BOARD COMMENTS Hear announcements concerning matters appearing on the agenda; items of community interest; and/or inquiries of staff regarding specific factual information or existing policy from the Committee members and City staff, for which no formal action will be discussed or taken. 6.ADJOURN If, during the course of the meeting and discussion of any items covered by this notice, the La Porte Development Corporation Board determines that a Closed or Executive Session of the Board is required, then such closed meeting will be held as authorized by Texas Government Code, Chapter 551, Section 551.071 - consultation with counsel on legal matters; Section 551.072 - deliberation regarding purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property; Section 551.073 - deliberation regarding a prospective gift; Section 551.074 - personnel matters regarding the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee; Section 551.076 - implementation of security personnel or devices; Section 551.087 - deliberation regarding economic development negotiation; Section 551.089 - deliberation regarding security devices or security audits, and/or other matters as authorized under the Texas Government Code. If a Closed or Executive Session is held in accordance with the Texas Government Code as set out above, the La Porte Development Corporation Board will reconvene in Open Session in order to take action, if necessary, on the items addressed during Executive Session. Persons with disabilities who plan to attend this meeting and who may need auxiliary aids or services are requested to contact the City Secretary's office (281-470-5019), two working days prior to the meeting for appropriate arrangements. Pursuant to Texas Government Code Sec. 551.127, on a regular, non-emergency basis, members may attend and participate in the meeting remotely by video conference.Should that occur, a quorum of the members will be physically present at the location noted above on this agenda. CERTIFICATE I, Lee W oodward, City Secretary, do hereby certify that a copy of the January 25, 2021, La Porte Development Corporation Board agenda was posted on the City H all bulletin board, a place convenient and readily accessible to the general public at all times, and to the C ity's website, www.LaPorteT X .gov, in compliance with Chapter 551, Texas Government Code. DATE OF POSTING TIME OF POSTING TAKEN DOW N Lee Woodward Lee W oodward, City Secretary Page 1 of 2 August 24, 2020, La Porte Development Corporation Board Minutes RICHARD WARREN, PRESIDENT NANCY OJEDA, VICE-PRESIDENT CHUCK ENGELKEN, BOARD MEMBER VACANT, BOARD MEMBER DANNY EARP, BOARD MEMBER JOHNNY MORALES, BOARD MEMBER SHELLEY FULLER, BOARD MEMBER MINUTES OF THE LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD MEETING OF AUGUST 24, 2020 The City of La Porte Development Corporation Board met on Monday, August 24, 2020, at the City Hall Council Chambers, 604 West Fairmont Parkway, La Porte, Texas, at 5:00 p.m., with the following in attendance: Board members present: Richard Warren, Danny Earp, Shelley Fuller Board members attending remotely: Chuck Engelken, Nancy Ojeda, Johnny Morales, Rachel Cotton Board members absent: None Council-appointed members present: Corby Alexander, City Manager; Lee Woodward, City Secretary; Clark Askins, Assistant City Attorney 1. CALL TO ORDER – President Warren called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. 2. CITIZEN COMMENT (Generally limited to five minutes per person; in accordance with state law, the time may be reduced if there is a high number of speakers or other considerations.) There were no speakers. 3. AUTHORIZATIONS (a) Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve the minutes of the July 27, 2020, meeting. [President Warren Member Engelken moved to approve the minutes of the July 27, 2020, meeting; the motion was seconded by Member Fuller and adopted, 7-0. (b) Presentation, discussion, and possible action to elect a President and Vice President for Fiscal Year 2020-2021, per Section 3.02 of the La Porte Development Corporation's Bylaws. [Jason Weeks, Assistant City Manager] Member Engelken moved to elect Richard Warren as President and Nancy Ojeda as the Vice President for Fiscal Year 2020-2021; the motion was seconded by Member Earp and adopted, 7-0. (c) Presentation, discussion, and possible action to approve a proposed economic development incentive agreement with Marion (Marty) and Vicki Campise in connection with 100 W. Main Street, an incentive project for the refurbishment and renovation of the old bank building located at 100 W. Main Street in La Porte, Texas, in an amount not to exceed $85,000.00. [Jason Weeks, Assistant City Manager Page 2 of 2 August 24, 2020, La Porte Development Corporation Board Minutes Member Earp moved to approve a proposed economic development incentive agreement with Marion (Marty) and Vicki Campise in connection with 100 W. Main Street, an incentive project for the refurbishment and renovation of the old bank building located at 100 W. Main Street in La Porte, Texas, in an amount not to exceed $85,000.00; the motion was seconded by Member Fuller and adopted, 7-0. 4. SET DATE FOR NEXT MEETING The next meeting was scheduled for September 28, 2020. 5. Hear announcements concerning matters appearing on the agenda; items of community interest; and/or inquiries of staff regarding specific factual information or existing policy from the Committee members and City staff, for which no formal action will be discussed or taken. There were no comments. 6. ADJOURN – The meeting was adjourned without objection at 5:11 p.m. ___________________________________ Lee Woodward, City Secretary REQUEST FOR LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD AGENDA ITEM Agenda Date Requested: January 25, 2021 Requested By: Jason Weeks, Asst. City Mgr. Department: Administration/CMO Report Resolution Ordinance Exhibits: Program Guidelines, Application, Vendor Quotes & Photos of current building SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION On December 20, 2020, staff received an Enhancement Grant application from Bryan and Brandy Gwin for building and sign improvements to their business Boats Etc. , which is located at 331 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. The applicants are interested in installing stucco finishing to the entire front of their building with the addition of a new LED sign on the front of the building. As mentioned, t he building is located at 331 S. Highway 146 on the northbound frontage road. The a pplicant estimates a total capital investment of $24,982.82 for this project, of which 50% ($12,491.41) is eligible for reimbursement once the project is completed. The applicant was not able to find a local La Porte vendor that does Stucco installation; therefore, they’ve provided three (3) quotes ranging from $15,000.00 to $15,603.00. Additionally, the applicant contacted a local La Porte sign vendor (Coupland Signs) for a quote; however, Coupland Signs acknowledged that they do not handle LED signs. Therefore, the applicant received two (2) quotes from sign vendors that ranged from $9,982.82 to $16,064.30. Based on the submitted quotes, the best value reimbursable amounts would be 50% of the Stucco quote of $15,000.00 and 50% of the LED sign quote of $9,982.82. Staff has provided documentation related to the project and the applicant(s) will be in attendance at the meeting to respond to any questions or concerns on this project. Appropriation Source of Funds: 015 – General CIP Enhancement Grant Account Number: 015-9892-993-1100 Amount Budgeted: $167,339 Amount Requested: $12,491.41 Budgeted Item: Yes No The applicant has met the requirements of the Enhancement Grant application; therefore, staff recommends the Board approve this enhancement grant application for a reimbursable amount not to exceed $12,491.41. ACTION REQUIRED BY BOARD Approval or denial of an enhancement grant in the amount of $12,491.41 to the applicant, Bryan and Brandy Gwin for the building and sign enhancements for their business, Boats Etc., which is located at 331 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. Approved for the La Porte Development Corporation Board meeting agenda Corby D. Alexander, City Manager Date LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 1, Revised 9/1/20 LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM The La Porte Enhancement Grant Program, which is sponsored by the La Porte Development Corporation, offers matching grants to businesses which are located in the City of La Porte. Eligible improvements of the La Porte Enhancement Grant Program include façade enhancement/rehabilitation, beautification projects, new awnings, canopies, porches, signage, and parking lot improvements. Commercial property owners or businesses may apply for grant reimbursements from a minimum of $2,500 to a maximum of $50,000. Each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and ALL projects for a matching grant greater than $25,000 must also be approved by the La Porte City Council. Interested business owners are welcome to complete the enclosed application form. Please deliver applications to: Jason B. Weeks Office of Economic Development City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 Please email us at WeeksJ@laportetx.gov or call 281/470-5012, if you have any questions about the La Porte Enhancement Grant Program. LA PORTE BY THE BAY 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, Texas 77571 281/470-5016 BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 2, Revised 9/1/20 ELIGIBLE PROJECTS Business owners may be eligible for a reimbursement grant of funds which are used to enhance and/or beautify their businesses. The following types of projects are eligible for reimbursement: • Façade Rehabilitation/Enhancement Eligible projects include work on existing structures, such as removing non- historic/added facades, re-pointing brick or replacing mortar joints, replacing or restoring cornices, removing paint from brick, replacing windows, restoring transom windows, repairing facades, etc. • New Awnings, Canopies, Porches, and Signage Eligible projects include replacing, adding, or repairing awnings, canopies, porches, and signs. Signs may include signboards, projecting signs, pedestrian signage, window signs, hanging signs, and awning/canopy signs. • Beautification Projects Eligible projects include public art, landscaping, and other beautification projects as approved by the La Porte Development Corporation Board (LPDC). • Parking Lot Improvements Eligible projects include new parking lot construction, parking lot paving, parking lot re- surfacing, parking space striping/painting, new parking blocks, old parking block removal, and other projects as approved by the LPDC. PROGRAM GUIDELINES 1. Grant funds are available only for exterior work on commercial property and building facades that are visible from public streets. 2. In general, grants offered to businesses are intended to support projects to renovate or convert existing structures to their original historic condition. 3. Grants will be processed and considered for award on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted or until the program ends, whichever comes first. 4. Grants will not be awarded for work that has already been started or completed, or for work that is covered by insurance. If desired work is above and beyond what insurance will pay, and is, therefore, considered an upgrade and enhancement in the opinion of the LPDC, it may be eligible for grant funds. BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 3, Revised 9/1/20 5. Grants will not be awarded to any Applicant that owes any delinquent indebtedness* to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation (LPDC). * “Delinquent Indebtedness” shall mean any indebtedness due and owing to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation, including but not limited to, ad valorem taxes on real and personal property, which property is in fact owned by and is legally subject to taxation, whether or not the same may have been properly rendered to the tax assessor-collector by any person. Such term shall also include, but not be limited to, charges for penalties, interest and costs on any such ad valorem taxes; charges for water, sewer, garbage and other services rendered or goods furnished by the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation to any person; and any other manner of indebtedness to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation, now existing or which may hereafter be created by any person. No such indebtedness shall be considered “delinquent” until the time for its current payment under the various ordinances of the City of La Porte, or state statutes, or contractual agreement, shall have expired, without payment having been made. 6. Each grant will be awarded on a reimbursement basis once completed work has been verified by the LPDC to be compliant with the plans proposed in the approved application. Any deviation from the approved project may result in the total or partial withdrawal of the grant. 7. Each enhancement grant application will be subject to review a nd approval from the Board of the LPDC. The review criteria include the following: • The project demonstrates a significant improvement over the existing situation, • The project will add to the beautification of the City of La Porte , • The project will enhance the City of La Porte’s appeal to new businesses and visitors, • The project will complement the surrounding buildings, and • The project will add value to the City of La Porte. 8. Grant applications and awards may be made in any of the reimbursable activities described above and may be combined for any single property or project. 9. An applicant is defined as an owner, tenant, or combination thereof, who occupies space in an eligible property. A single owner of multiple properties may apply for grant funds for each property owned, but the matching grant must be for more than $2,500 and less than $50,000 per property in a three (3) year period. 10. Preference will be given to all local bids for work that qualify under the current form of the City of La Porte’s Local Bidder Preference Policy at the time the project is approved by the Board. 11. Multiple bids are not required for each eligible project that is less than a total $2,000, of BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 4, Revised 9/1/20 which 50% or $1,000 would be a reimbursable expense, as per the City of La Porte’s Purchasing Policy. APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Determine eligibility: Discuss project plans with the Economic Development Coordinator. 2. Complete the application and sign the agreement form. Each grant application must include the following: a. A scaled drawing by the project architect or design professional of all the work to be completed. b. Samples -- i.e. paint samples, fabric swatches, sign material, etc. -- that will enable the LPDC to envision the finished project. c. Three (3) itemized work estimates on all project work from contractors or project architects. At least one quote must be obtained from applicable La Porte business. Should La Porte business not respond, applicant must provide documentation (email or letter) evidencing that a request for quote was requested. Applicants may refer to the Contractor List for La Porte contractors. However, the City does not make any representation as to the quality of work, nor guarantees any special pricing, nor does the City represent that this list is a comprehensive listing of La Porte businesses that complete this type of work. Should an applicant contact a La Porte business/contractor not on this list, such business shall be deemed to meet the requirement of this section as long as the business address is listed as La Porte. Self-contracted work will be reimbursed for actual legitimate expenses, excluding labor. d. Photographs of the building’s exterior. The Applicant shall be required to provide before and after photographs of the building before the reimbursement grant can be awarded. For the initial application, “before” photographs will suffice, but “after” photographs of the completed project must be submitted before the grant may be considered for reimbursement. 3. Return the completed application form, with all applicable items, to: Jason Weeks Office of Economic D evelopment City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 WeeksJ@laportetx.gov BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 5, Revised 9/1/20 4. The application will undergo an approval process, which includes but is not limited to the following: a. Each project must meet current building standards and codes, as well as building permit requirements. b. The LPDC will only consider applications that have been properly and fully completed, and which contain all information requested in the application and/or by the committee. c. All itemized work estimates submitted by the Applicant must be dated no earlier than ninety (90) days prior to the Application request. Bids shall be submitted on the contractor’s or project architect’s letterhead and shall contain the contractor’s name, address, and telephone number and shall itemize the bid in a manner that allows the LPDC to determine the bid components and authenticity of the bid. d. Applications receiving approval by the LPDC shall commence construction described in the application within ninety (90) days from the date that the enhancement grant is approved. Each Applicant must complete the construction described in the Application within one (1) year from the date that the grant is approved. If the Applicant cannot meet this timeline, then the Applicant may submit a written request for an extension of the commencement date or completion date provided the extension request is made prior to the ninety (90) day or one (1) year time limit. The LPDC shall not be obligated to grant an extension, but it may do so for good cause determined solely by the members of the Committee. The extensions, if granted, shall be for the term and for the conditions determined exclusively by the LPDC. Denial of an extension request may not be appealed. e. As a condition of this grant Application, the Applicant consents, and shall allow, the LPDC to request city inspections to determine that the grant, if awarded, will not be used for construction on any building that is not in compliance with the City Municipal Codes and Ordinances that are applicable to the construction contemplated in the application. f. The LPDC shall have sole discretion in awarding grants. They shall award grants considering the amount requested, grant funds available, the guidelines of the grant program, condition of the building in which the grant funds will be used, economic impact, other grant requests, the type and nature of the construction, and the proposed construction results considering the grant program. g. No Applicant has a proprietary right to receive grant funds. The LPDC shall BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 6, Revised 9/1/20 consider any application within its discretionary authority to determine what grant amount would be in the best interest of the grant program. h. The Applicant shall be required to furnish “before” photographs of the building’s exterior, and any other site locations that are included as part of the application request. The applicant shall also provide “after” photographs once the construction has been completed, as a condition of final grant disbursement. i. The LPDC has the final discretion with regard to funding and reserves the right to recommend modifications or reject any project or elements of any project. 5. Reimbursement. When the entire enhancement grant project has been completed, the Applicant shall present the Economic Development Office with the following: a. Copies of all paid invoices, including copies of cancelled checks and/or credit card receipts for a single payment reimbursement of the approved funding, and b. Photographs of all completed work. 6. When the project has been reviewed and approved by the LPDC, a reimbursement check will be issued. BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT APPLICATION PAGE 1, Revised 9/1/20 La Porte Enhancement Grant Application Please print clearly. Please submit a completed application to: Office of Economic Development City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 APPLICANT INFORMATION: APPLICATION DATE: Applicant Name Business Name Physical Business Address Business Owner (if different from applicant) Mailing Address Contact Phone Email Address TYPE OF WORK (check all that apply):  Façade  Awnings/Signage  Beautification  Parking Lot Improvements DETAILS OF PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS (attach additional pages if necessary): BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT APPLICATION PAGE 2, Revised 9/1/20 Please list the name of each Contractor and/or Project Architect and the Total Amount of each bid. Please, also, attach the original proposals and work estimates: CONTRACTOR/PROJECT ARCHITECT TOTAL 1. $ 2. $ 3. $ 4. $ 5. $ BUDGET DETAIL PROJECT EXPENDITURES FUNDS FUNDS APPLIED TOTAL Façade Rehab $ $ $ Awnings/Signage $ $ $ Beautification $ $ $ Parking Lot Improvements $ $ $ Other (list): $ $ $ TOTAL $ $ $ Total estimated cost of proposed project: $ Amount requested (up to 50% of total cost, $2,500 to $50,000): $ Please attach color samples, model numbers (for windows, doors, etc.), photos, scaled drawings, and other illustrations of work to be completed. Please include as much detail as possible. Your signature on this application certifies that you understand and agree with the following statements: I have met with the LPDC and I fully understand the Enhancement Grant procedures and details established. I intend to use these grant funds for the eligible renovation projects, as spelled out in the application. I have not received, nor will I receive insurance monies for this revitalization project, OR I have disclosed all pertinent insurance information. I understand that if I am awarded an Enhancement Grant, any deviation from the approved project may result in the partial or total withdrawal of the grant funds. APPLICANT SIGNATURE DATE REQUEST FOR LA PORTE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BOARD AGENDA ITEM Agenda Date Requested: January 25, 2021 Requested By: Jason Weeks, Asst. City Mgr. Department: Administration/CMO Report Resolution Ordinance Exhibits: Program Guidelines, Application, Vendor Quotes & Photos of current building SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATION On January 5, 2021, staff received an updated Enhancement Grant application from Mike Kinstley for improvements to his Precision Auto Repair business building, which is located at 405 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. The applicant is interested in installing Stucco masonry finishing to the west side and south side of his building, replace far west garage door, repair and paint other garage doors, paint trim o f building, and replace all signage with new signs. As mentioned, the building is located at 405 S. Highway 146 on the northbound frontage road. The applicant estimates a total capital investment of $52,453.08 for this project, of which 50% ($26,226.54) is eligible for reimbursement once the project is completed. The applicant was not able to find a local La Porte vendor that does Stucco installation . Additionally, the applicant contacted a local La Porte sign vendor (Coupland Signs) for a quote; however, Coupland Signs acknowledged that they do not make the letter or box signs need for his sign project. Below is the results of his bids for the Stucco masonry finishing, signage, garage door and painting: Stucco Masonry Bids: • Zuniga Stucco (Pasadena) - $15,500.00 • JC Home Improvement (Kemah) - $16,670.00 • Federal Masonry (Houston) - $16,730.04 Signage Bids: Appropriation Source of Funds: 015 – General CIP Enhancement Grant Account Number: 015-9892-993-1100 Amount Budgeted: $167,339 Amount Requested: $26,226.54 Budgeted Item: Yes No • Precision Signworx LLC (Katy) - $27,008.38 • Coast Graphics & Signs (Rosharon) - $34,334.67 o Sign A - $6,710.42 o Sign B - $9,740.34 o Sign C-1 - $5,407.09 o Sign C-1 - $6,198.31 o Sign C-2 - $1,623.75 o Sign C-2 - $2,413.98 o Sign D - $2,240.78 • Signco America (Houston) - $41,667.16 Garage Door Bids: • Halo Doors (Houston) - $4,944.70 • Henderson Garage Door (Baytown) - $9,341.98 • Channel Door 1 LP (La Porte) - $9,915.70 Painting Bids: • Isaias Gloria Painting (Houston) - $5,000.00 • Santoyo Quality Painting Services (La Porte) - $6,400.00 • C&K Painting LLC (Santa Fe) - $8,755.00 Based on the submitted quotes, the best value reimbursable amounts would be 50% of the Stucco quote of $15,500.00, 50% of the sign quote of $27,008.38, 50% of the garage door bids of $4,944.70 and 50% of the painting bids of $5,000.00. Staff has provided documentation related to the project and the applicant will be in attendance at the meeting to respond to any questions or concerns on this project. The applicant has met the requirements of the Enhancement Grant application; therefore, staff recommends the Board approve this enhancement grant application for a reimbursable amount not to exceed $26,226.54. Since the amount exceeds $25,000, this item will need to be taken to City Council for final approval in February. ACTION REQUIRED BY BOARD Approval or denial of an enhancement grant in the amount of $26,226.54 to the applicant, Mike Kinstley for the building and sign enhancements for his business, Precision Auto Repair, which is located at 405 S. Highway 146 in La Porte, Texas. Approved for the La Porte Development Corporation Board meeting agenda Corby D. Alexander, City Manager Date LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 1, Revised 9/1/20 LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM The La Porte Enhancement Grant Program, which is sponsored by the La Porte Development Corporation, offers matching grants to businesses which are located in the City of La Porte. Eligible improvements of the La Porte Enhancement Grant Program include façade enhancement/rehabilitation, beautification projects, new awnings, canopies, porches, signage, and parking lot improvements. Commercial property owners or businesses may apply for grant reimbursements from a minimum of $2,500 to a maximum of $50,000. Each application will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and ALL projects for a matching grant greater than $25,000 must also be approved by the La Porte City Council. Interested business owners are welcome to complete the enclosed application form. Please deliver applications to: Jason B. Weeks Office of Economic Development City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 Please email us at WeeksJ@laportetx.gov or call 281/470-5012, if you have any questions about the La Porte Enhancement Grant Program. LA PORTE BY THE BAY 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, Texas 77571 281/470-5016 BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 2, Revised 9/1/20 ELIGIBLE PROJECTS Business owners may be eligible for a reimbursement grant of funds which are used to enhance and/or beautify their businesses. The following types of projects are eligible for reimbursement: • Façade Rehabilitation/Enhancement Eligible projects include work on existing structures, such as removing non- historic/added facades, re-pointing brick or replacing mortar joints, replacing or restoring cornices, removing paint from brick, replacing windows, restoring transom windows, repairing facades, etc. • New Awnings, Canopies, Porches, and Signage Eligible projects include replacing, adding, or repairing awnings, canopies, porches, and signs. Signs may include signboards, projecting signs, pedestrian signage, window signs, hanging signs, and awning/canopy signs. • Beautification Projects Eligible projects include public art, landscaping, and other beautification projects as approved by the La Porte Development Corporation Board (LPDC). • Parking Lot Improvements Eligible projects include new parking lot construction, parking lot paving, parking lot re- surfacing, parking space striping/painting, new parking blocks, old parking block removal, and other projects as approved by the LPDC. PROGRAM GUIDELINES 1. Grant funds are available only for exterior work on commercial property and building facades that are visible from public streets. 2. In general, grants offered to businesses are intended to support projects to renovate or convert existing structures to their original historic condition. 3. Grants will be processed and considered for award on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted or until the program ends, whichever comes first. 4. Grants will not be awarded for work that has already been started or completed, or for work that is covered by insurance. If desired work is above and beyond what insurance will pay, and is, therefore, considered an upgrade and enhancement in the opinion of the LPDC, it may be eligible for grant funds. BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 3, Revised 9/1/20 5. Grants will not be awarded to any Applicant that owes any delinquent indebtedness* to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation (LPDC). * “Delinquent Indebtedness” shall mean any indebtedness due and owing to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation, including but not limited to, ad valorem taxes on real and personal property, which property is in fact owned by and is legally subject to taxation, whether or not the same may have been properly rendered to the tax assessor-collector by any person. Such term shall also include, but not be limited to, charges for penalties, interest and costs on any such ad valorem taxes; charges for water, sewer, garbage and other services rendered or goods furnished by the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation to any person; and any other manner of indebtedness to the City of La Porte or the La Porte Development Corporation, now existing or which may hereafter be created by any person. No such indebtedness shall be considered “delinquent” until the time for its current payment under the various ordinances of the City of La Porte, or state statutes, or contractual agreement, shall have expired, without payment having been made. 6. Each grant will be awarded on a reimbursement basis once completed work has been verified by the LPDC to be compliant with the plans proposed in the approved application. Any deviation from the approved project may result in the total or partial withdrawal of the grant. 7. Each enhancement grant application will be subject to review a nd approval from the Board of the LPDC. The review criteria include the following: • The project demonstrates a significant improvement over the existing situation, • The project will add to the beautification of the City of La Porte , • The project will enhance the City of La Porte’s appeal to new businesses and visitors, • The project will complement the surrounding buildings, and • The project will add value to the City of La Porte. 8. Grant applications and awards may be made in any of the reimbursable activities described above and may be combined for any single property or project. 9. An applicant is defined as an owner, tenant, or combination thereof, who occupies space in an eligible property. A single owner of multiple properties may apply for grant funds for each property owned, but the matching grant must be for more than $2,500 and less than $50,000 per property in a three (3) year period. 10. Preference will be given to all local bids for work that qualify under the current form of the City of La Porte’s Local Bidder Preference Policy at the time the project is approved by the Board. 11. Multiple bids are not required for each eligible project that is less than a total $2,000, of BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 4, Revised 9/1/20 which 50% or $1,000 would be a reimbursable expense, as per the City of La Porte’s Purchasing Policy. APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Determine eligibility: Discuss project plans with the Economic Development Coordinator. 2. Complete the application and sign the agreement form. Each grant application must include the following: a. A scaled drawing by the project architect or design professional of all the work to be completed. b. Samples -- i.e. paint samples, fabric swatches, sign material, etc. -- that will enable the LPDC to envision the finished project. c. Three (3) itemized work estimates on all project work from contractors or project architects. At least one quote must be obtained from applicable La Porte business. Should La Porte business not respond, applicant must provide documentation (email or letter) evidencing that a request for quote was requested. Applicants may refer to the Contractor List for La Porte contractors. However, the City does not make any representation as to the quality of work, nor guarantees any special pricing, nor does the City represent that this list is a comprehensive listing of La Porte businesses that complete this type of work. Should an applicant contact a La Porte business/contractor not on this list, such business shall be deemed to meet the requirement of this section as long as the business address is listed as La Porte. Self-contracted work will be reimbursed for actual legitimate expenses, excluding labor. d. Photographs of the building’s exterior. The Applicant shall be required to provide before and after photographs of the building before the reimbursement grant can be awarded. For the initial application, “before” photographs will suffice, but “after” photographs of the completed project must be submitted before the grant may be considered for reimbursement. 3. Return the completed application form, with all applicable items, to: Jason Weeks Office of Economic D evelopment City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 WeeksJ@laportetx.gov BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 5, Revised 9/1/20 4. The application will undergo an approval process, which includes but is not limited to the following: a. Each project must meet current building standards and codes, as well as building permit requirements. b. The LPDC will only consider applications that have been properly and fully completed, and which contain all information requested in the application and/or by the committee. c. All itemized work estimates submitted by the Applicant must be dated no earlier than ninety (90) days prior to the Application request. Bids shall be submitted on the contractor’s or project architect’s letterhead and shall contain the contractor’s name, address, and telephone number and shall itemize the bid in a manner that allows the LPDC to determine the bid components and authenticity of the bid. d. Applications receiving approval by the LPDC shall commence construction described in the application within ninety (90) days from the date that the enhancement grant is approved. Each Applicant must complete the construction described in the Application within one (1) year from the date that the grant is approved. If the Applicant cannot meet this timeline, then the Applicant may submit a written request for an extension of the commencement date or completion date provided the extension request is made prior to the ninety (90) day or one (1) year time limit. The LPDC shall not be obligated to grant an extension, but it may do so for good cause determined solely by the members of the Committee. The extensions, if granted, shall be for the term and for the conditions determined exclusively by the LPDC. Denial of an extension request may not be appealed. e. As a condition of this grant Application, the Applicant consents, and shall allow, the LPDC to request city inspections to determine that the grant, if awarded, will not be used for construction on any building that is not in compliance with the City Municipal Codes and Ordinances that are applicable to the construction contemplated in the application. f. The LPDC shall have sole discretion in awarding grants. They shall award grants considering the amount requested, grant funds available, the guidelines of the grant program, condition of the building in which the grant funds will be used, economic impact, other grant requests, the type and nature of the construction, and the proposed construction results considering the grant program. g. No Applicant has a proprietary right to receive grant funds. The LPDC shall BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT PROGRAM PAGE 6, Revised 9/1/20 consider any application within its discretionary authority to determine what grant amount would be in the best interest of the grant program. h. The Applicant shall be required to furnish “before” photographs of the building’s exterior, and any other site locations that are included as part of the application request. The applicant shall also provide “after” photographs once the construction has been completed, as a condition of final grant disbursement. i. The LPDC has the final discretion with regard to funding and reserves the right to recommend modifications or reject any project or elements of any project. 5. Reimbursement. When the entire enhancement grant project has been completed, the Applicant shall present the Economic Development Office with the following: a. Copies of all paid invoices, including copies of cancelled checks and/or credit card receipts for a single payment reimbursement of the approved funding, and b. Photographs of all completed work. 6. When the project has been reviewed and approved by the LPDC, a reimbursement check will be issued. BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT APPLICATION PAGE 1, Revised 9/1/20 La Porte Enhancement Grant Application Please print clearly. Please submit a completed application to: Office of Economic Development City of La Porte 604 W. Fairmont Parkway La Porte, TX 77571 APPLICANT INFORMATION: APPLICATION DATE: Applicant Name Business Name Physical Business Address Business Owner (if different from applicant) Mailing Address Contact Phone Email Address TYPE OF WORK (check all that apply):  Façade  Awnings/Signage  Beautification  Parking Lot Improvements DETAILS OF PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS (attach additional pages if necessary): BUSINESS. BY THE BAY. LA PORTE ENHANCEMENT GRANT APPLICATION PAGE 2, Revised 9/1/20 Please list the name of each Contractor and/or Project Architect and the Total Amount of each bid. Please, also, attach the original proposals and work estimates: CONTRACTOR/PROJECT ARCHITECT TOTAL 1. $ 2. $ 3. $ 4. $ 5. $ BUDGET DETAIL PROJECT EXPENDITURES FUNDS FUNDS APPLIED TOTAL Façade Rehab $ $ $ Awnings/Signage $ $ $ Beautification $ $ $ Parking Lot Improvements $ $ $ Other (list): $ $ $ TOTAL $ $ $ Total estimated cost of proposed project: $ Amount requested (up to 50% of total cost, $2,500 to $50,000): $ Please attach color samples, model numbers (for windows, doors, etc.), photos, scaled drawings, and other illustrations of work to be completed. Please include as much detail as possible. Your signature on this application certifies that you understand and agree with the following statements: I have met with the LPDC and I fully understand the Enhancement Grant procedures and details established. I intend to use these grant funds for the eligible renovation projects, as spelled out in the application. I have not received, nor will I receive insurance monies for this revitalization project, OR I have disclosed all pertinent insurance information. I understand that if I am awarded an Enhancement Grant, any deviation from the approved project may result in the partial or total withdrawal of the grant funds. APPLICANT SIGNATURE DATE