Facade Improvement Program 

The Facade Improvement Program is geared towards improving and promoting the creation and expansion of our commercial and retail sectors throughout communities in Stark County, further emphasizing our mission of creating a better place to live, work and grow.

This program is offered directly through the Stark Development Corporation office and subject to approval of the SDC Board of Directors. Suitable projects may be eligible for a matching forgivable loan of project funds up to a maximum of $25,000.

The Facade Improvement Program Goals:

• Encourage redevelopment and reinvestment in the community
• Enhance commercial growth
• Improve the physical appearance and aesthetics of the property
• Encourage historical preservation and renovation
• Improve customers’ experience and usability
• Beautification of the city and our downtown public places
• Encourage renovation and expanded utilization of property
• Promote and facilitate business expansion and creation

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Requirements:
To be eligible for funding, a proposed project must meet all the following minimum requirements:

• Applicant must be members in good standing of Stark Development Corporation.
• Applications may be submitted by a property owner or tenant within the Stark County area.
• Tenants must have at least two years remaining on their lease or an option to renew.
• Applicant must leverage a minimum of one dollar ($1.00) of private funds for every dollar ($1.00) of Community Facade Improvement & Enhancement Development Program funds requested.
• One of the goals of the Community Facade Improvement & Enhancement Development Program is to preserve the historical character of buildings. Exterior renovations shall be to the extent practical, preserve and promote the significant architectural and historic features of the building.
• Applicants shall comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws and codes and must be in good standing.
• Applicants shall obtain a letter of support from the municipality within the jurisdiction of the project.
• Property must be zoned and operated for commercial purposes.
• Projects must begin within six (6) months of the approval and be completed within twelve (12) months of approval. Extensions may be requested depending on the scope of the project.