The Forum

Excuse me, but THAT, at least in MY world, is NOT $800,000 worth of 'facade improvements'.

The link is not working so it is difficult to gather more information on what the facade improvements entail beyond the simple rendering; however, updating and retrofitting an existing building of that size with new architectural components could easily add up to $800,000.  Are there any architects or engineers out there who can comment?  I do not feel this project is out of line at all.  Shorewood needs to encourage this type of updating and improvement in order to keep lease rates and values high.

My earlier comment re: the WORTH of the proposed facade improvement was an opinion on my part...THIS is directly from the Facade Improvement document:

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Facade Improvement Grant

This grant will share in the actual cost of implementing the improvements identified in the conceptual design and cost estimate including the cost to complete final design and construction documents. An approved applicant will receive an amount equal to 50% of the aforementioned costs up to $25,000. Amounts above the maximum may be authorized with approval by the Community Development Authority of the Village of Shorewood.

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Unless my 12 years of Shorewood Public School system education have failed me, $800,000 is more than the $25,000 "limit" stated. If any "amounts above the maximum" can simply be approved by the CDA, then in reality, there is no cap at all.

I think they were smart to allow "amounts above the maximum" even if that means there is no true cap.  A facade improvement program cannot and should not be a "one size fits all" program.  

Also, in my experience with Community Development Authorities, the people sitting on them are chosen for their expertise in real estate, finance, law, etc. and are good decision makers.  Personally, I feel comfortable with their recommendations.