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Purpose
The purpose of this program
is to improve the aesthetics of the commercial community within the City of
Ham Lake. The program is designed to beautify the look of the city by
helping businesses to improve their commercial property. The goal is to
achieve a better curb-appeal and create higher property values. The original
program effective October 1, 2000 included businesses in the Highway 65
corridor only. The program was modified July 1, 2008 to include all eligible
businesses in Ham Lake.
Eligible projects
A
project shall be eligible for the Program if the primary purpose is to
enhance the visual appearance of an existing property and that property
conforms to current business zoning regulations. The project must be
located within the corporate limits of the City of Ham Lake.
Examples of eligible projects are as follows:
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Painting, re-stucco, re-siding or tuck-pointing of structures
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Addition of brick surfacing
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Existing freestanding sign enhancement, repair, removal or replacement
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Landscaping, including landscaping around signs
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Installation of lawn/landscape irrigation systems
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Opaque fencing or screening
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Addition or repair/replacement of concrete curb and gutter
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Improvement of pond appearance
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Replacement/repair of unsightly culverts
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Addition of riprap
Ineligible projects
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A
project is not eligible for the program if the improvement sought includes
any of the following:
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Work
already completed prior to the grant request
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Removable personal property, or fixtures readily removable to another site
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Inventory for resale
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Correction of any condition with is in violation of any law or ordinance
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Residential homes
Application process
In
making an application for a grant, an applicant shall do the following:
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Send
a letter of request to the HLDC including:
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Name
and address of the business/individual making the request
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Name
of business operating on the site (if different than request)
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Address of site to be improved
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Details of improvements including an informal sketch of parcel
illustrating location of project, contractor bids, total cost estimates
A
responding letter is mailed to the business from the HLDC indicating the
request does or does not fit the guidelines. The
HLDC inspects project and collects more information as necessary. The
HLDC requests grant approval from the city and notifies business of
approval.
Business makes improvements and submits proof of payment for
reimbursement. The
HLDC requests approval from the City for an amount equal to 50% of the
actual cost or $8,000, whichever is less.
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