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SUBJECT: Title
Discussion and possible action to extend the Downtown Business Improvement & Preservation Grant process for NB ELKS #2279.
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DEPARTMENT: Economic & Community Development
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COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: 5
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On March 31, 2025, the TIRZ 3 Board approved grants to the NB Elks #2279 in the amount of $7,943.75 to assist with the design of a fire sprinkler system, a fire alarm flow test, and the installation of a fire alarm system. City Council approved this on April 28, 2025 and the permit was issued on May 30, 2025.
On June 25, 2025, the TIRZ 3 Board approved an additional grant to the NB Elks #2279 in the amount of $11,225 to assist with the installation of an underground fire line. City Council approved this grant on August 11, 2025 and the permit was issued on August 20, 2025.
The Business Improvement & Preservation Grant Program and policy was approved by resolution of the New Braunfels City Council on October 23, 2023. The grant policy stipulates projects must be completed within 12-months from the date of the permit approval. However, this 12-month deadline may be revised, if both parties agree to as such in writing. Phone call communication with the grant applicant has yielded concerns that the 12-month deadlines will not be met:
- Grant 1: fire sprinkler system and fire alarm system may surpass the May 30, 2026 deadline
- Grant 2: underground fire line may surpass the August 20, 2026 deadline
Due to the size and complexity of the projects, staff recommends the TIRZ 3 Board consider an extension of the grant policy for the NB Elks #2279.
ISSUE:
The grant policy requires all projects are to be completed within 12-months from the date of permit issuance unless otherwise agreed to in writing. Staff recognize a need to extend the deadlines for the NB Elks #2279 due to their complexity.
STRATEGIC PLAN REFERENCE:
☒Economic Mobility ☐Enhanced Connectivity ☐Community Identity
☐Organizational Excellence ☐Community Well-Being ☐N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact to extend the grant process for the NB ELKS #2279 as existing grant funds have already been approved by the TIRZ 3 and City Council. No additional funds will be awarded to this organization with approval of an extension.
Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of an extension to the NB ELKS grant.