GRANTS PASS – The Grants Pass City Council voted unanimously to revise provisions of the city’s Light the Storefront Matching Grant Program to include the purchase and installation of security cameras by local businesses within the city’s Central Business District. The added provisions approved Monday, April 6, will assist local businesses with addressing concerns regarding safety during state-mandated closures of businesses determined to be nonessential by the governor’s office.
“Many businesses have been forced to close their doors and have expressed concerns about safety,” said Business Advocate Susan Seereiter.
The council first adopted the matching grant program in July 2017. Since that time, the city has awarded seven grants to local businesses who have used the funding to enhance the ambient lighting of their storefronts. Approximately $15,000 remains available in the program.
“Having storefront lighting and security cameras in place will provide a sense of security in the absence of daily activities,” Seereiter said.
The new provisions of the grant program include matching funds of up to $1,000 to assist businesses with the purchase and installation of surveillance equipment, including wireless camera technology. Grantees will be required to consult with the Department of Public Safety regarding the type of equipment and placement of cameras, said Chief Warren Hensman.
The cost of most approved systems ranges between $150 and $400, said Hensman.
Additional changes to the grant include a widening of the boundaries encompassing the location criteria for eligibility to the downtown area bounded by “C” Street to the north, “M” Street to the south, and between Third and Eighth streets.
Grant applications are available at the city’s website: www.grantspassoregon.gov. For additional information, call Susan Seereiter, business advocate: (541)450-6014.
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