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.
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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):
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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