On Monday, the City Council took several economic-development actions.
The council:
— Completed the sale of a section of a city parking lot in the 300 block of North Main Street.
John Cernovich, owner of Coco’s coffee shop at Third and Main streets, had purchased part of the lot behind his building previously. This year he sought to purchase the rest of the lot, which is adjacent to a building at 309 N. Main St.
City officials had objected to selling that part of the parking lot because it is adjacent to the building, which has a door which opens onto the lot.
Cernovich is in the process of purchasing the building, so the council Monday approved selling the rest of the parking lot.
The council action sets a minimum bid of $3,000 for the lot. Bids will be opened at the June 24 council meeting
— A public hearing was held on an application for funds under the federal PRICE (Prevention and Re-Investment for Community Enhancement) grant.
The PRICE program is administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). City Manager Gary Bradley said the city will apply for a grant to pay for water and sewer lines and streets in the city’s three trailer parks.
That work would make the parks more attractive to prospective residents, Bradley said.
— The council approved TIF (Tax Increment Financing) funds for improvements to the Hair Saloon building at 118 W. Second St.
Approved were a $25,000 grant and a $15,000 loan that will be repayable over three years. The money will pay for roof and plumbing upgrades, and interior remodeling.
— A resolution declaring the city’s intent to use TIF funds for improvements to the Kentville Road Industrial Park was approved.
Bradley said “several business” are interested in locating in the park.
The council also approved the reappointment of Matt Douglas to the Kewanee Municipal Airport board.
