🌟 Become a Sponsor

Interested in supporting Texas Local Weekly and placing an ad in this newsletter?

Visit: https://txlocalweekly.com/sponsorships/ 

Economic Development Corporation 4B

Coffee Shop Grant Approved, Downtown Improvements Funded, Billboard Idea Heads To Future Agenda

The Farmersville EDC approved funding for a new downtown coffee shop project, reviewed sales tax revenue, and discussed upcoming city projects. The meeting also set up a future conversation about marketing Farmersville with billboards along U.S. 380.

Coffee shop project at 206 McKinney Street receives grant

The board approved a $2,710.97 business development grant for improvements to the building at 206 McKinney Street. The project includes exterior paint, electrical work, a lighted box sign, and upgrades intended to refresh the storefront as another coffee shop moves into the downtown space.

Planters outside 206 McKinney Street spark debate

Board members spent the most time discussing three steel planters proposed for the front of the building at 206 McKinney Street. Some questioned whether the grant should pay for them since they are movable and not permanently attached to the structure. The planters totaled about $960 of the request.

After discussing whether the planters counted as a permanent improvement, the board voted to approve the entire $2,710.97 grant request as submitted, including the planters and exterior improvements.

February sales tax report reviewed

The EDC reviewed the latest sales tax snapshot showing $53,686 reported for February. Staff noted that sales tax distributions are delayed about three months, meaning the revenue reflects business activity from earlier in the year.

City boards moving toward paperless meetings

Farmersville is moving forward with tablets for city boards and commissions. The devices will allow members to receive meeting packets digitally and use city email accounts, reducing paper use and making it easier to share documents.

Demolition planning continues at 300 McKinney Street

Emergency services may use the structures at 300 McKinney Street for training before demolition. Staff said demolition could happen in late March or early April once scheduling with contractors is finalized.

Grant history may be posted online

Staff presented a summary showing nearly $300,000 in business development grants issued over the past two years. Board members said posting the summary online could help residents better understand how EDC funds are being used.