The city isn’t going to award a contract — at least for now — to conduct another downtown study.
Instead, the council is embarking on an effort to pick what would best be described as low hanging fruit by funding endeavors that can or need to be done regardless.
That includes rolling out incentives to encourage private sector investments for facade improvements, signage upgrades, outdoor expansion such as for dining, and endeavors aimed at increase customer traffic.
The city on a first-come first-served basis using a two-page application form will award grants of up to $10,000 that have no payback requirement. There is $100,000 set aside for such purposes,
It is reminiscent of an undertaking 16 years ago that was for facade improvements only that saw several firms invest in upgrades to awnings as well as improving the front of their stores and offices to make them more appealing.
The city also will start work on a fee reduction program aimed at encouraging investment in downtown structures to convert them into desired uses such as restaurants.
The council downtown committee consisting of Jose Nuno and Gary Singh are working with staff to roll out similar endeavors.
The city received three proposals ranging as high as $900,000 to fashion a downtown masterplan. The council, however, indicated they could not support going forward with it during the budget year. They also made it clear they don’t want general fund money touched if all possible when such a study does occur. That would most likely mean staff would need to seek grants to cover the cost.
Councilman Charlie Halford said he wants to weigh a downtown study against other pressing municipal needs such as a new police station, work on Airport Way, and other road projects at the council’s goal session set for next month.
Mayor Ben Cantu made it clear he believes the city needs to spend money if it wants to secure economic growth and amenities.
“All I’m saying is this council has a fiducial responsibility to the community and also has an amenities responsibility (to the community),” Cantu said.
To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com
