12/14/13 - The Howell Downtown Development Authority could be embarking on an economic development and historic preservation project aided by the City. The Howell City Council met last week and based on costs and interest rates, directed staff to proceed with an inter-fund loan to assist the DDA with its rehabilitation of the 118 West Clinton Street building. The DDA has plans renovate the upstairs and rent it out while the lower level would be divided up into two areas; with the DDA offices in front and the back portion of the lower level available for retail/business space. Given the budget constraints the City faces, members have said it seems like a logical move to save money in the long run as itâs a significant area for future development. Some on Council have questioned the solvency of the DDA and financing capabilities but others noted once the project is complete; the building would be the asset and could be sold to repay the debt if anything happened. Councilman Al Schlittler has questioned the rehabilitation and structural analysis, including the overall integrity of the building, the price estimate for repairs and potentially inflated costs. DDA officials maintain a structural analysis revealed no surprises and the estimate was inclusive of anticipated costs, so the funds requested would be sufficient. They say the project meets the criteria of what the DDA is all about when it comes taking an old building that would sit vacant otherwise to possibly be demolished and making it a good piece of the downtown again. City staff has since been directed to develop the necessary paperwork and gather other requested information for the loan consideration at the December 23rd City Council meeting. (JM)
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