City of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
11/18/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 11/18/2024 13:47
APPLICATION DEADLINE DECEMBER 1ST. -Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Program
Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Improvement Program Q&A
What is the Program about?
On September 17, 2024 the City of Rancho Palos Verdes City Council approved a Commercial Storefront Improvement Program along the Western Avenue Commercial Corridor. The Program will provide up to a 50% matching grant to qualified businesses and property owners in Rancho Palos Verdes along Western Avenue for the completion of storefront improvements.
Is my business eligible for the Program?
Applicants of the Program must be commercial property owners or businesses located within the Program Area. Franchises and chain retailers are eligible under the Program.
How do I know if my property is located in the Program area?
If you are a business or property owner in Rancho Palos Verdes along the Western Avenue Commercial Corridor you may be eligible for the Program. To view a map of the area, go to https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp .
Do I need a business license?
Yes, you must have a valid business license to operate a business in the City of Rancho Palos Verdes. A business license can be obtained with the Cashier in the Community Development Department or go to https://www.rpvca.gov/288/Business-License-Information.
When can I apply?
The Program will open for applications October 15, 2024 through December 1, 2024. Application deadline is 5:00 P.M. on December 1, 2024. Email completed applications to [email protected] .
Where do I go for Program details?
Please visit the Community Development Department section of the City's website at https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp
What type of improvements qualify under the Program?
Improvements should enhance or restore the physical condition or appearance of the building. Proposed improvements must be visible from the street. For a complete list of qualifying improvements go to the city website.
Will I receive the grant funds upfront for all improvements?
No, the Program match requirement is a reimbursable grant set at a maximum of 50% of eligible costs. However, the City reserves the right to flex the match requirement on a case-by-case basis. Three tiers of grant funding are available to applicants. Go to https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp for the Program Guidelines.
What type of Funding is available?
For details of Tier 1-3 funding see Program documents on the city website.
Where can I fill out an application?
Applications are available on the city website at https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp . Completed application and required documents should be emailed to [email protected].
How long do I have to apply?
The Application deadline is December 1, 2024 at 5:00 P.M. Email completed application and all required documents to [email protected].
What is the review process?
A committee consisting of City Staff from the Community Development Department and the City Manager's Office will review applications. The Committee will: 1) approve; 2) disapprove; or 3) approve with conditions.
Do I have to sign a contract?
Upon grant award, the Program Grantee will be required to complete a Grant Agreement which details the Terms and Conditions associated with the grant. These forms must be returned to City Staff within 3 weeks of the date the award is granted. A sample of the Grant Agreement can be found under Program Documents on the city website. https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp.
Do I need to obtain permits for the work?
Yes, all work that requires permitting must go through the Planning and Building and Safety permit process. The Program Grantee must have all City permits and fee obligations paid, and all permits approved with final inspection, prior to submitting a request for grant reimbursement.
Is there a deadline to complete the improvements?
Yes, for Tier One grants, improvements must be completed within three months of execution of the Grant Agreement. A one-time extension of 30 days may be granted by the Director of Community Development for good cause.
For Tier Two and Three grants, all work must be complete within six months of execution of the Grant Agreement. A one-time extension of 60 days may be granted by the Director of Community Development for good cause. See Program Guidelines on the city website. https://www.rpvca.gov/1780/Western-Avenue-Commercial-Storefront-Imp.
When will I receive the Grant Reimbursement after my improvements?
After the proposed improvements are completed, the Program Grantee must submit the following to the Community Development Department to receive reimbursement. Email all documents to [email protected].
- Owner's sworn statement stating that proposed improvements have been completed.
- Proof that the project has passed final inspection by the City's Department of Community Development.
- Contractor's sworn statement showing the full cost of the work, and each separate component amount due to the contractor and every subcontractor involved in furnishing labor, materials, or equipment in the work.
- Proof of payment of the contract cost pursuant to the contractor's statement and final lien waivers from all contractors and subcontractors.
- Before and after photographs of the improvements.
- If applicable, the Program Grantee shall also submit to the City a copy of the architect's statement of fees for professional services for preparation of plans and specifications.
How long will it take to receive the Grant Reimbursement once I submit all the required reimbursement documents? Grants are processed in the normal City accounts payable cycle of net 60 days. To check on the status of a submitted Grant Reimbursement call 310-544-5236 or email [email protected].