Council approves $10,000 facade grant for historic downtown building

Gastonia City Council unanimously approved a $10,000 Level 1 facade grant for the Standard Hardware building at 156 South South Street to restore the property's historic front.

Christie Crisp, the city's director of economic development, told the council the owners plan to remove a nonhistoric awning, repair underlying woodwork and copper detailing, and restore lead-lined glass features. She said the building owner will invest $28,321 and request reimbursement of $10,000 under the program.

"They are investing $28,321, and they are asking for a facade grant of $10,000," Crisp said during the public hearing, adding that the CCRHCE committee had unanimously recommended approval.

Council members asked whether the proposed gooseneck lighting would be exterior and how many fixtures were planned; the project team confirmed one exterior fixture over the main entrance and said the lighting will accent, not overwhelm, restored features.

Councilwoman Danielle Barber and staff clarified how the grant is paid: owners make the improvements, submit proof of payment and documentation, and the city processes a reimbursement. Crisp said the funds come from the Municipal Service District tax, a district-specific levy used only inside the municipal service district.

Mister Seppert moved to close the hearing and approve the grant; the motion was seconded by Councilman Kasupius and passed unanimously. The council did not attach additional conditions beyond the standard reimbursement and documentation requirements.

The project proponent said the building was constructed in 1923 and described plans to retain and patina existing copper where possible, custom-fabricate missing trim, and use brass fasteners for longevity. The applicant also described plans to reveal and repair lead-lined glass currently hidden by the awning.

The council vote closes the public hearing and authorizes staff and finance to process the reimbursement under the Level 1 facade program; implementation will proceed once the owner documents eligible expenditures.