The facade improvement program is designed to encourage businesses to invest in their storefronts by offering grants of up to $7,500 per project. The grants, structured as reimbursable and forgivable loans, would require applicants to submit quotes and architectural designs before commencing work. In the presentation, council members emphasized the need for maintaining the property for at least 10 years and the importance of simplicity in the application process to ensure it is business-owner friendly.

During the meeting, discussions arose about whether property or business owners should be responsible for funding improvements upfront and how this could affect the viability of the program. The potential of increasing funding beyond the $7,500 cap was considered, with some members proposing a cap of 10-20% on additional funds. The council also deliberated on the program’s duration and the importance of ensuring that businesses remain in the borough post-improvement.

Sustainability was a key component of the facade improvement discussions, with incentives suggested for the use of sustainable materials in projects, such as energy-efficient windows and doors aligned with the Energy Star program. The council considered increasing grant amounts for businesses incorporating these materials, with suggestions for a percentage increase ranging from 10% to 20%.

The program’s design standards were another point of debate, with council members discussing the need for a balance between uniformity and individual expression. The preference for complimentary colors and shepherds crook external lights was mentioned, as was the need for clear guidelines to maintain a cohesive aesthetic while allowing for individual business preferences.

In addition to the facade improvement program, the meeting covered other topics of local interest. The Hawthorne Borough Council recognized the 100th anniversary of the Hawthorne Fire Department Band and announced the opening hours for the pool and designated cooling stations within the town.

Legal matters were also addressed, including an update on a lawsuit against a resident for property maintenance code violations, a tax appeal, and a pending settlement for a tax appeal involving a shopping center. The council’s attorney and the borough engineer provided updates on infrastructure improvements, including water service line replacements and lighting projects.

The administrator discussed various administrative matters, such as borrowing authorization, dispatcher negotiations, and cybersecurity compliance. Specific projects, including repairs to the Bandshell and a county bridge replacement, were also on the agenda.

Public concerns were not left out of the conversation, with the council discussing improvements to the brook, addressing property lines affected by the brook’s course, and the significance of a blue sticker on a vacated business. There was a call for better communication from the county regarding these projects.

The council session concluded with a mention of the Chamber of Commerce’s upcoming events and final administrative actions, including the approval of bill payments. Public comments were opened and closed without any speakers. The next council meeting was scheduled for July 10th.