One notable issue at the meeting was the allocation of funds from the Business Improvement Grant Program. The board reviewed 13 applications, focusing on a multi-tenant building on the west side of Shim Cor. The property owners sought financial assistance to replace an aging parking lot, raising questions about the program’s limitations in handling communal property projects. The board considered whether to approve a maximum of $10,000 for each of the five submitted applications or to find a more equitable solution due to the communal nature of the property.

In-depth discussions revealed that the grant program’s current structure did not adequately address such scenarios. Board members debated the implications of funding only one applicant versus multiple applicants, with concerns that partial funding might deter property owners from undertaking necessary improvements. One member stressed the need for consistency, citing the impracticality of renovating only part of a shared parking lot.

The board also examined the scoring system for applications, with a point-based system in place to prioritize projects aligning with program objectives. However, some members argued for refining the criteria to better reflect the economic impact of the proposed projects. This led to a broader conversation about the importance of retaining existing businesses while attracting new ones, emphasizing the need for businesses that generate foot traffic.

Financial considerations were also at the forefront, with the board contemplating a $50,000 fund transfer to the Economic Development Authority to expedite grant distribution. As the discussion evolved, members expressed a desire to fund multiple projects to spark community engagement and considered strategic funding over several years to manage larger requests without exceeding budget limits.

The meeting also addressed the status of the old Creamery building, with two options on the table: sale or demolition. The City Administrator was tasked with refreshing quotes for demolition, but no deadline had been set. Concerns were raised about the building’s stagnation, with calls for the Economic Development Authority to push the City Council to impose a timeline for action. A motion was ultimately made to recommend that the building be demolished by July 31, 2025, unless progress was made toward its sale or renovation.

In other discussions, the board confirmed funding for seven projects, including Madson, Butternut, Core Trust, R&V, Ace, Bob’s Repair, and Mayor Lumber, with a total allocation of $64,740. The board also planned to request an additional $75,000 from the City of Mayer for the 2025 grant cycle to bolster the program’s capacity to support local businesses.

The meeting touched on updates regarding the old fire hall, noting progress on roof work and bathroom permits. Prospects for tenants were discussed, though no commitments had been confirmed. The board briefly revisited the city’s cannabis policy and agreed to schedule the next meeting for October 21st.