FEDC considers demolition grants

During its regular Nov. 01, 2018 meeting, the Forney Economic Development Corp. met to approve creating a demolition grant program:

• Financial report: none, beginning of fiscal year.
  
• Executive Director's report: Panera Bread has generated more feedback than the Goodyear project, it will kick-start that development; FIRM (Forney Industry Retention Meeting) at Spellman Museum had a full house; toured Eastfield and Forney HS; downtown entry signs have been paid for, easements at ANB & NTMWD approved, FISD adding to parking-lot contract; Mr. McBeth mentioned a downtown parking meeting, group considered where additional parking could be added.
  
• Approved an EDC Demolition Grant Program and funding of $20k.
      Mr. Ketteman said it takes some time and money to get through the zoning department for demolition; their visit to Jacksonville exposed their similar program. Mr. McGregor said they are focusing this on corridors with legal non-conforming areas. Ms. Browning questioned limiting to downtown; Mr. Ketteman said it was because that is zoned commercial. Mr. McBeth agreed should help with any residential converting to commercial. Mr. Ketteman would like to focus on Broad St. but can change language, still requiring property to be rezoned commercial. Applicants must provide estimates for demolition, and will be required to show receipts to be reimbursed.
  
• Held an executive session
  
• Adjourned at about 1945.