One of the key points raised was the requirement for businesses to match grant funds, which may create a barrier for those lacking upfront capital. While no minimum requirement exists to apply for the grant, there is a maximum allocation per application. The dialogue included consideration of different grant categories or levels to accommodate businesses that struggle to meet the current match requirements.

The conversation further explored the rationale behind the program and whether it inadvertently favored businesses already planning to make improvements, rather than specifically incentivizing upgrades within the CRA district. Discussions also suggested that the grant program might not be fully utilized due to a lack of awareness among eligible businesses or the upfront costs associated with applying.

The meeting touched on the possibility of revising the grant program to offer more targeted incentives, such as higher amounts for specific types of improvements like architectural investments. Additionally, the issue of including irrigation costs in landscaping grants was debated, with suggestions that this might encourage more comprehensive and visually impactful improvements.

The agency considered various solutions to these concerns, such as simplifying the application process, adjusting the matching fund requirements, and increasing outreach and education efforts about the available programs. Ideas included hosting informational events and collaborating with city officials to spread awareness.

The meeting concluded without a formal motion, but with recommendations for amendments to the grant programs. The CRA staff was tasked with preparing revisions, including potentially separating the programs into one focused on significant landscaping improvements with irrigation requirements and another restoring the previous successful parameters for business upgrade reimbursements.