The following are questions we have heard regarding the OMS Revitalization Grant:
ADDED 1/20/22:
Q: How does the reimbursement process work for the OMSRG? Can we receive multiple payments within the grant period?
A: “A portion of the work must be complete to receive a reimbursement. Ideally, we wouldn’t want a lot of small ones, perhaps one a quarter if it is a multi-year project. You would need to submit a complete progress report, see the guidelines, and a complete reimbursement request, see guidelines. We review the report to ensure the work is part of the grant agreement and that it meets the standards. Then we review the reimbursement request for accuracy and to ensure it meets the state fiscal requirements. Once the progress report and reimbursement request are complete, the reimbursement takes 2-3 weeks.” ~ Kuri
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Q: Does the project have to be in the established Albany Oregon Main Street District?
A: Yes, only projects within the map area are eligible. Contact ADA for the up-to-date area map.
Q: Does the applicant have to be a member of Albany Downtown Association?
A: Yes, the applicant can be an established or new member.
Q: Does the property need to participate in the EID?
A: Yes, the property needs to be part of the EID and with payments current. Property owners can opt-in.
Q: Do I have to be the building or property owner to apply for the grant?
A: No, if the applicant is not the owner, a signed agreement between the applicant and the property owner is required with the pre-application. If the project is selected by ADA, a signed agreement between the Albany Downtown Association and the property owner is required with the application submitted to SHPO. A letter of support from the property owners of neighboring buildings and businesses will make a stronger application.
Q: Are there any historic requirements for eligible revitalization projects?
A: Yes, all work must be consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Properties; see https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm. Projects must also meet planning codes and be able to gain the approval of the Landmarks Commission, if applicable. Landmarks Commissioners and City Staff are familiar with historic rehabilitation and restoration projects and offer consultations and on-site visits. For any exterior renovation project that would change the appearance, material, or character of a historic structure, please contact Community Development to discuss your project and schedule site visits.
Q: If we are selected as ADA’s grant partners, are we guaranteed to receive an OMS Revitalization Grant?
A: No, it is a competitive grant. In 2019, the latest grant cycle, SHPO awarded 30 matching grants worth $5,244,261 to Oregon Main Street Network organizations across the state for building projects that encourage economic vitality. Projects ranged from façade improvement to housing and awards ranged from $56,731-$200,000. 63% of the requests were funded, with 93% going to rural communities.
Q: Is Albany considered Urban or Rural?
A: The population of Albany exceeds 30,000 and is considered “Urban” for the purpose of the OMS Revitalization Grant. A minimum of 50% of the funds go to rural areas. In 2019, 7% of the grants were awarded in Urban areas.
Q: Can the grant be used to pay off existing debt?
A: No, it may not. All work that is part of the grant must be started within the grant period (estimated to start June 1).
Have a question? Please contact ADA and we will provide or research answers. Q&A will continue to be added to this list through the Jan 31 pre-application deadline.