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City tries to revive Town Center
(by Andrea Cordle, Southwest Editor - January 22, 2010)
Grove City resident Andrew Furr remembers a time when downtown Grove City was the place to be. He said there was always something to do.
"Our Town Center is slowly dying," said Furr. "We have to protect our core, the heart of our city."
Protect and improve the Town Center is exactly what the city of Grove City plans to do.
At its Jan. 19 meeting, Grove City Council unanimously approved a measure to put together a Town Center development loan program. The $1 million loan program would provide incentive for new businesses to locate in the downtown area. It would also assist existing business owners in obtaining loans for capital improvements, purchases and equipment.
The resolution states the purpose of the program is to stimulate new economic development by creating and/or expanding investment and employment in the Town Center.
Councilman Steve Bennett said no one wants to see the Town Center die. He believes the incentive program will kick-start growth. Several business owners agree.
"I am looking forward to this incentive program to fill these empty store fronts," said Rebecca Sommer, who has worked downtown for 20 years.
Karen Dover praised the city for the resolution.
"We needed this support and we need it quick," Dover said.
The eligible applicants are property owners, new and existing business owners within the Town Center limits. The loan limit is $150,000, which is determined on a case-by-case basis. Loans would be used for capital and operating costs, which would attract new jobs or businesses. It would also be used to maintain the city's income tax base.
To be considered for the loan, the applicant must provide a business and marketing plan, along with proof that all employees pay Grove City income tax. The interest rate is 3 percent per annum, with no loan forgiveness.
Council President Ted Berry clarified, "This is a loan, not a give-a-way."
Grove City Mayor Richard "Ike" Stage said he does not like to see stores out of business, but noted he cannot be pessimistic.
"We do have positive things going on," said Stage. "Let's get it done."
Stage said the tax abatements are also a key incentive to attract business to downtown. There are approximately 100 businesses in and around the Town Center.
Berry said council is behind this because small businesses are hurting. He also noted this development loan program is just a starting point.
"There is still a lot of work that needs to be done."
Resident Dick Rutherford encouraged council to consider implementing a similar program for the historical district, which leads into downtown.
In addition, council will hold a special meeting on Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. to discuss a revised Town Center plan. Frank Elmer, from Lincoln Street Studios, is scheduled to be on hand with a presentation. The meeting will be held at City Hall.
Denial of private club variance
City leaders and representatives from a local establishment argued over a parking variance.
The board of zoning appeals granted a variance for a reduction in the required number of parking spaces for Buckeye Entertainment, at 3131 Broadway. Council unanimously approved a resolution to appeal that decision, despite the business owner's attorney requesting a continuance.
For the type of establishment, the city code requires 52 parking spaces. Buckeye Entertainment has 38 spaces. They asked for a reduction in the code. The business is adjacent to Knights Inn.
Stage said the site was originally developed as a motel/restaurant. The restaurant is gone and Buckeye Entertainment is there, as a private club.
"The use of the establishment makes parking a serious issue," said Stage. "I feel a reversal of the BZA's decision is warranted."
Urbancrest Mayor Joseph Barnes said the village has had numerous problems with the establishment. He said in the past, it has allegedly been the site for drug trafficking and prostitution.
"It is a breeding ground for illegal activity," alleged Barnes.
The Urbancrest mayor reported, with neighborhood watch groups and increased police patrols, the village has been able to cut down on some unwanted activity.
Tom Hart, who represents the business owner, said he disagrees with the claims. He explained the business and hotel have security 24 hours a day/ seven days a week. They have three officers, who said they were willing to work with the Grove City Division of Police on any issue that may arise.
Regarding the parking space variance, Hart argued for a continuance to give the owner time to work with city staff and legal council to find a solution. Council denied that request.
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