Farmer's Market Place to Receive Facade Grant

Farmer's Market Place, which is taking over the storefront previously occupied by Piggly Wiggly, will receive a façade grant up to $150,000 to help with its exterior renovations.

Grayslake trustees voted unanimously Feb. 19 to provide the grant, which will cover 66 percent of the façade costs, not to exceed $150,000. The grant is being awarded at the recommendation of the village's Economic Development Commission in lieu of a sales tax reimbursement agreement.

Mayor Rhett Taylor said the intention of the façade grant is to improve the economic climate and drive up property values in the area.

"This is a corridor that hasn't received any attention," said Taylor.

Trustee Ron Jarvis expressed concern about making sure the smaller businesses are being represented in the façade program. He added that the amount being awarded to Farmer's Market Place "is 100 percent over budget," with the village allocating $70,000 for façade grants this year.

"I think it's the right thing to do," said Trustee Jeff Werfel, noting, however, that he sees Jarvis' point about making sure the smaller businesses can take advantage of the program.