CITY OF EL CAJON BUSINESS BEAUTIFICATION GRANT PROGRAM

 

Authority and Purpose:

 

Under the auspices of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Federal Funding, the City of El Cajon (hereinafter referred to as "the City") hereby establishes a Business Grant Program (hereinafter referred to as "the Program") with an allocation of $500,000.00. The Program is designed expressly for the purpose of providing financial assistance in the form of reimbursement to eligible businesses within the City limits for undertaking new exterior improvements. The intent of the Program is to incentivize the revitalization and aesthetic enhancement of commercial properties, thereby contributing to the overall visual appeal and economic vitality of the City.

 

Grant Allocation and Maximum Reimbursement Caps:

 

The Program offers financial reimbursements in the following specific categories, subject to the caps outlined below:

- Exterior Signage: A maximum of $20,000.00 USD per business entity.

- Exterior Paint: A maximum of $15,000.00 USD per business entity.

- Exterior Window Repair: A maximum of $1,000.00 USD per business entity.

 

Eligibility and Compliance Requirements:

 

To be eligible for participation in the Program, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

1. Location: The applicant business must be physically located within the municipal boundaries of El Cajon.

2. Licensing: The applicant must hold a valid and active Business License issued by the City.

3. Operational Basis: Businesses operating from a residential (home-based) location are not eligible for participation, per El Cajon Municipal Code 17.225.050.

4. Visibility: Proposed improvements must be clearly visible from the public right of way, including streets and sidewalks.

5. Good Standing: Businesses must have no current Code Compliance issues with the City to be considered for the Program. 

 

Application Process:

 

Interested businesses must submit a comprehensive application package, which includes professional designs, installation quotes, and any other documentation as required by the City, by the deadline of May 1, 2024. Should the volume of applications exceed the Program’s funding capacity, the City retains the discretion to select projects based on their potential contribution to the City’s aesthetic and economic objectives. The City advises all applicants to have a complete and professional application to showcase the value the project will bring to the City. The City advises against the commencement of any project prior to formal grant approval to ensure all eligibility requirements are met for reimbursement under the conditions of the contract.

 

Evaluation and Approval Notification:

 

The City will conduct a thorough review of all submissions and notify applicants of their approval status by May 31, 2024.

 

Specific Improvement Guidelines and Reimbursement Conditions:

 

1. Signage: Eligible signage types are limited to Channel Letter Signs, Dimensional Letter Signs, and Blade Signs, as pre-approved by the City Council. All signage projects must adhere to permitting requirements, be completed with a final permit inspection by September 30, 2024, and comply with all local signage ordinances. Reimbursement will cover costs associated with design, permitting, installation, and electricity, contingent upon submission of valid quotes and compliance with professional standards. Businesses are responsible for adhering to El Cajon Municipal Code 17.190.210 and businesses located in the Downtown El Cajon Specific Plan must also adhere to the specified amendments.

 

2. Paint: Applicants may request reimbursement for exterior painting costs up to the specified cap, providing color plans and professional application quotes for approval. The City reserves the right to approve colors and applications that align with community standards. All painting projects must receive final approval from City Inspectors by the specified deadline.

 

3. Window Repair: Reimbursement for window repair or replacement is capped as specified, with required submission of material and labor quotes. If applicable, necessary building permits must be acquired in advance of project commencement. Final approval is contingent upon inspection and adherence to professional standards.

 

General Provisions for Reimbursement:

 

To qualify for reimbursement, projects must be fully completed by September 30, 2024 to the City's satisfaction, including submission of a final permit where required, and proof of payment in full to all vendors. The City reserves the right to conduct inspections to verify compliance with the Program’s standards and local regulations.

 

Legal Disclaimer:

 

This notice does not constitute a binding offer or contract. The City reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate the Program at its discretion, subject to applicable laws and regulations. Participation in the Program does not confer any rights other than those expressly detailed herein.