Downtown Façade Loan Program

The  Downtown Façade Loan Program provides financial assistance to encourage property and business owners in core downtown to revitalize downtown commercial buildings within the towns, villages, and cities of West Central Wisconsin. 

Eligibility


  • Be located within designated downtown boundaries of eligible towns, villages, and cities. 
  • Demonstrate ability to repay the loan. 
  • Keep property taxes current.
  • Eligible activities include:  façade renovation; exterior lighting, doors, and graphics; signage, windows, and awnings; other façade or landscape improvements. 

  

Design Requirements

 

Applicants must provide acceptable façade design plans that comply with approved general design guidelines based on the National Trust and Main Street Center or suitable design guidelines prepared and adopted by local governments.

Finance Terms and Conditions


  • 1% fixed interest rate on all loans;
  • Repayment terms up to seven years;
  • Amortization up to fifteen years;
  • Loan sizes from $5,000 to $60,000;
  • All loans shall be secured by a mortgage on the property being rehabilitated;
  • All customary out-of-pocket fees and legal costs made in connection with the transaction are the applicant's responsibility.

Covenants


  • Deviation or disregard for the guidelines on the approved design will result in a stop being placed on the loan;
  • Borrowers will be required to maintain the property upon completion of the façade improvements for the term of the financing;
  • Delinquency in any tax obligation will disqualify an applicant.  If delinquency occurs during the term of loan, loan is to be paid in full.

Meetings


This committee meets as needed. Contact City Hall for more information.