Grants available for downtown Tiffin property owners

TIFFIN, OH — Following a rollout in 2018, the City of Tiffin again is to offer downtown property owners a grant to update hanging signs. For 2019, Tiffin City Council has approved $5,000 in funding for the program which allows for a 50 percent reimbursement of expenses directly related to perpendicular signage on properties within the downtown target area, up to a maximum match of $1,000. This grant is available on a first-come, first-served basis from application approval.

To apply for a grant, the building owner should meet with Downtown Main Street Manager Amy Reinhart to discuss how the program works and obtain an application. Eligible improvements include all exterior perpendicular signage including the bracket. Historical signs, including neon signs, are eligible to be repaired and restored. Once the application is submitted, reviewed and deemed complete and without issues, the Architectural Board of Review will consider it for approval. Projects approved in 2018 include $1,000 to The Ritz Theatre for its marquee, $1,000 to Washington Street Outfitters for its sign and to restore the bracketing and $1,000 to Viewpoint Graphics to restore the historic Leiner Men’s Wear sign.

Tiffin Mayor Aaron Montz said he was glad to see local businesses take advantage of the program last year and hopes it will continue in 2019. “This is a great opportunity to continue to beautify downtown Tiffin and to increase awareness of the great businesses in our city.”