Washington officials have revived debate over a proposed $45,400 commercial improvement grant for Cherry Tree Plaza after previously rejecting the request. Supporters say the funding could help attract national retailers to a long-vacant space, while skeptics want stronger protections to ensure taxpayers benefit before public money is released.
Key takeaways
- The Washington City Council is reconsidering a grant covering half of an estimated $90,800 renovation.
- Two national retailers are reportedly interested in a soon-to-be-vacant 25,000-square-foot space.
- Council members want assurances that the space will be filled before grant funds are distributed.
- The plaza’s owners could invest at least $1 million if a retailer commits.
Why the grant is back under discussion
The council rejected the grant last month after members questioned whether taxpayer money should support Cherry Tree Plaza’s out-of-state owners and property management company. The request returned to the agenda Monday at the urging of some council members.
Justin Paul, who represents Florida-based American Commercial Realty Corporation, joined the discussion after traveling to Washington. He said the grant is an important element in efforts to recruit two national retailers interested in the property.
Proposed improvements and retail prospects
The grant would cover half of the projected $90,800 cost of improvements to a retail area that is expected to become vacant. Paul said one of the prospective retailers could require at least another $1 million in investment from the shopping center’s owners to prepare the space.
He described the interest from two national chains as unusual for a community Washington’s size. Paul also said the 12,000-square-foot east side of the space has been vacant for eight years, despite extensive efforts to find a tenant.
That portion was renovated last year with assistance from a separate $50,000 city commercial improvement grant. Paul said the latest funding could help prevent the space from remaining empty for several more years.
Council members seek safeguards
Several alderpersons said the city should not release the grant without assurances that the space will be occupied. They suggested adding language to the grant resolution that would tie payment to specific conditions or milestones.
Alderperson Brandon Moss called for “guardrails” to ensure taxpayers receive value. Alderperson Paula Johnson said she supports businesses that generate sales-tax revenue but emphasized that public funds must be treated carefully.
Alderperson Mike McIntyre took a broader view, arguing that the proposed work could increase the value of the space even if neither national retailer ultimately signs a lease. Paul, meanwhile, said every dollar matters during the recruitment process.
What happens next
The renewed discussion does not represent a final approval of the grant. Council members are expected to consider whether additional conditions can balance the city’s interest in attracting retailers with concerns about public investment in privately owned property.
The central question remains whether Washington can secure enforceable commitments that connect the grant to new occupancy, sales-tax activity and lasting benefits for the community.
