Grant Economic Development Program to be on Nov. ballot

By Becky Uehling

Grant Tribune-Sentinel

There were no comments given during the public hearing Monday, Aug. 9, for the proposed extension of LB 840, or the Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act, within the City of Grant. In 2012, the citizens of Grant voted to continue the program. On November 8, citizens will again be able to cast their vote either in favor of or against the program. 

Implemented by Grant citizens in 2002, the program earmarked local tax dollars for economic development projects in the city. Some of these projects have included grants to Perkins County Health Services to attract and retain doctors, start up grants and loans to businesses to retain and grow, and promotional aspects to attract individuals to the community. 

“We need to start using it more,” Faber said at the July 26 council meeting, explaining that the city is still using the economic development fund to assist in such things as the Downtown Revitalization project and economic relief to businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with few loans outstanding, and less interest accruing for the program, funds to run the program are diminishing. “We are giving funds out, but nothing is coming back in,” she said.

According to Faber, the fund could use city sales tax revenue to be funded as other communities have established their program this way, but the city began the program using property tax revenue to fund the program. If a change was to be made in how the program is funded additional steps would need to be taken. 

It was recommended to leave the property tax appropriated at the set amount from the prior 2012 election at the discretion of the City Council not to exceed $25,000.00 per program year. 

Those with questions can call City Superintendent Edward Dunn or City Clerk Jessie Faber at 352-2100.