Maximum loan size in the program has increased from $30,000 to $60,000 and now allows for renovations to back entrances.

DOWNTOWN FACADE LOAN SUMMARY:

The Downtown Facade Loan Program provides financial assistance to encourage property and business owners in core downtown areas to revitalize downtown commercial buildings within the towns, cities, and villages of Barron County. Eligible uses include facade renovation, signs, exterior doors, windows, awnings, exterior graphics, exterior lighting, and other facade or landscape improvements. Facade funds can also be used for renovation to any customer entrance points, include entrances and drive-throughs. Building code violations such as roofing, structural repair and necessage mechanical systems upgrades are eligible but only as a part of an approved facade improvement.

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

  • Applicants must provide acceptable facade design plans that comply with approved general design guidelines adopted by local loan committee.

FINANCE TERMS AND CONDITIONS

  • Loan size can range from $5,000 to $60,000.
  • 1% fixed interest rate.
  • Repayment terms up to 7 years.
  • Amortization terms up to 15 years.
  • All loans shall be secured by a mortgage on the property being renovated.
  • Unlimited personal guarantees are required for any owner with greater than 20% ownership interest in the business.

ELIGIBILITY

  • Be located within designated downtown boundaries of eligible towns, villages, and cities
  • Demonstrate ability to repay the loan.
  • Property taxes must be kept current.
  • Provide acceptable design plans for building renovation.
  • Eligible activities include: facade renovation; exterior lighting, doors, and graphics; signage, windows, and awnings; other facade or landscape improvements.

*Some communities within Barron County may not be participating.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  • Review design guidelines provided by community.
  • Complete and submit application and design plans to the primary contact at the local loan contact.
  • Application and design plans are reviewed by local loan committee and a decision will be made.
  • Review design guidelines will be provided by the community. Application and design plans are reviewed by the local loan committee.

PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES

Barron: Link to map of facade program area.

Chetek: Link to map of facade program area.

Cumberland: Link to map of facade program area.

Rice Lake: Link to map of facade program area.

Turtle Lake: Link to map of facade program area.

Cameron will be added soon.

Dallas will be added soon.

For more information please contact Dave Armstrong, Barron County Economic Development at 715-637-6871 or bcedc@co.barron.wi.us.