Grant program stimulates over $100K in building improvements in McGregor
McGregor’s Business Enhancement Grant Program has spurred on over $100,000 of building improvements since its inception a year and a half ago. Among the projects was painting and tuckpointing of the McGregor-Marquette Center for the Arts building, pictured here. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
By Audrey Posten, Times-Register
McGregor’s Business Enhancement Grant Program has spurred on over $100,000 of building improvements in the community since its inception a year and a half ago.
According to Duane Boelman, McGregor’s deputy city clerk and economic development lead, 13 projects have been completed since 2020, accounting for $119,380 worth of improvements. Several more projects are in the works.
The city of McGregor has so far invested $61,252 in the program, which provides matching grants up to $5,000 to local businesses for the redevelopment and improvement of buildings within the community. $100,000 was designated to establish the fund.
“It’s been a good return on investment, with a lot of good projects,” said Boelman.
The program was designed to foster an attractive business environment in McGregor. Funds have been available for established and new businesses for façade improvement projects, permanent interior capital improvements, site cleanup or development and other projects approved by the city.
Projects so far have included exterior tuckpointing and painting, awnings and signage, building accessibility improvements, air conditioning replacement and installation of energy efficient lighting, said Boelman. Dock repairs at the marina were even eligible.
“There have been both interior and exterior projects,” he noted. “Quite a few have been for the full $5,000 amount.”
Boelman said a limited amount of funds are left from the city’s initial $100,000 investment. He encourages property owners—or even renters—to apply.
“Renters are allowed to apply with permission from the owner, as long as the repair is something that becomes a permanent part of the building,” he explained. “Nonprofits can also take advantage of this.”
“We especially like to see the repainting of façades with sensitivity to the historic look of the building,” Boelman added. “You could also do a project for a smaller amount, like a sign.”
Commercial properties don’t have to be located downtown, but anywhere within the boundaries of the city of McGregor. This includes short-term vacation rental units that are not the owner’s primary residence. Projects must improve an existing business that is open to the public consistent hours a majority of the year, produce a turn-key retail or office space that is actively seeking a commercial tenant or, if a short-term vacation rental (less than 31 days per month), be available for rent at least nine months of the year.
Businesses seeking funding must submit an application to the city, along with support materials, including project plans, a list of owners/partners and staff, letter of credit and proof of insurance. Applicants must also be current on property taxes and utilities.
Boelman said the city’s goal for the Business Enhancement Grant Program was to attract new businesses and help those already in the community remain successful.
“We want people to know the city is pro-business, that we want to see businesses succeed and prosper,” he stated. “Hopefully we can do another round of funding.”
Boelman feels the work that’s already been completed will also have a continued ripple effect.
“To see buildings improved, that sparks more private money going into buildings,” he quipped.
For more information about the program, as well as guidelines for historic preservation, rehabilitation, renovation, remodeling and new construction activities, please contact Boelman at McGregor City Hall at (563) 873-3795 or citymcgr3@mediacombb.net.
