The Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board of Directors today took action on the following measures:

Advanced the Proposed DDA FY16 Budget for City Commission Consideration

The Board recommended a proposed Fiscal Year 2016 budget of approximately $9.6 million that, more than ever in the organization’s history, is directly shaped by direct citizen participation and engagement. Citizen volunteers prioritized 94 percent of the approximately $4.9 million in discretionary spending proposed in the budget. The proposed budget also commits approximately $4.7 million to satisfy ongoing obligations such as organizational overhead, debt service and development project reimbursements.

Overall the proposed DDA budget includes 98 individual capital projects, programs, events and other investments to continue strengthening and accelerating the city building movement in Downtown. This includes 56 specific projects emerging from GR Forward, an initiative to define a community plan and investment strategy for restoring the Grand River and growing Downtown that has engaged some 3,500 citizens during the past 13 months. The proposed budget will be presented to the City Commission for consideration on Tuesday, May 26, 2015.

Approved Extension of Service Agreement with DGRI

The Board approved extending its service agreement with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) for the period January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2018. DGRI is the organization responsible for city building and place-management in Downtown Grand Rapids. Established in 2013, DGRI serves as the singular management entity for several economic development districts in the urban core, including the DDA.

Approved Tax Increment Finance Assignment for the Waters Building

The Board approved a resolution consenting the assignment of developer’s rights to Waters Building LLC. In October 2014, the DDA approved a package of financial incentives to assist the building renovation and improve the public realm around it. This Board action fulfills terms of the developer’s financing as security for the construction loan.

Approved FY16 DDA Incentive Program Fee Schedule

The Board approved a revised fee schedule for DDA incentive programs. The revised rates ensure applicant fees will offset the administrative costs incurred by managing program applications. The revised fee schedule includes a $200 application fee on all incentive programs and a three percent processing fee at the time the application is approved by the DDA Board. The maximum total fees per project is capped at $25,000. Recognizing the financial complexity and challenges faced by many development projects, the fee for development support will be deducted from the first year reimbursement payment.

Approved Contract and Funding for Downtown Census Project

The Board approved a contract with Metric-a, LLC to conduct a Downtown Census effort that generates the most accurate possible demographic profile for the Downtown residential population. The project will support ongoing efforts to establish a Downtown Residents Council and create a detailed demographic profile that will inform engagement strategies with residents.

Approved Commercial Signage Grant for Luna

The Board approved a $2,000 Ground Floor Commercial Signage grant for new storefront signage on the forthcoming Luna restaurant at 64 Ionia SW. The new Latin-American influenced restaurant is scheduled to open in Fall 2015.

Recommended Approval of Liquor License for Grand River Cigar

The Board recommended approval of a liquor license for GRC Bar, LLC, the owners of Grand River Cigar Bar & Lounge at 144 E. Fulton Street. Issuing the liquor license, the Board determined, will support economic growth along East Fulton in a manner consistent with the goals, plans, and policies of the district. Once opened, Grand River Cigar will employ up to seven new full and part time employees and provide seating for 50 patrons. The Grand Rapids City Commission must take action on final approval before a liquor license is granted.

Consented to Industrial Facilities Exemption for Founders Brewing Company

The Board voted to consent to an Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for Founders Brewing Company properties at 231 Bartlett St. SW, 248 Williams St. SW, and 235 Grandville Ave. SW. The applicant requested a 12-year exemption on the real property investment and an eight-year exemption on personal property investment in connection with the new expansion of brewing operations on the properties. Grand Rapids City Commission will consider the exemption request at a later date.