SRC focuses on town money disbursement

The Sparta Revitalization Committee on Monday discussed how to spend money available from its annual allocation for town appearance improvements.

The committee reported some inquiries about continuing its façade improvement grant program. At its monthly meeting Monday, the SRC also considered using funds as part of an incentive package to market available retail space.

No decision was made, as it is not clear how much money might be available. The Town of Sparta allocates $6,000 each year for appearance improvements, primarily downtown. SRC President Sandy Rost said the committee plans to install a welcome sign along N.C. 18 at the southwestern town limits. "We're committed to producing the welcome sign, but we have no price yet," said Rost.

She said the SRC had a request from Chris Elliott-Davis regarding renovations to the former Belk building, the new location of her business, Studio Redwood Inc. The building is located on Main Street (U.S. 21) across from the Alleghany County Courthouse. Rost said Elliott-Davis asked if the SRC could assist her with the renovations cost through a façade grant.

At last month's SRC meeting, members praised the improvements made to the building's appearance.

"Can we assist with painting the side wall (facing N.C. 18)?" asked SRC member Nyla Duncan Monday.

Rost said Elliott-Davis has spent a total of $6,215 on renovations, with more than $3,500 of that figure on exterior work including painting. The owner of the building is allowing her to apply some of the cost of the renovations toward rent, Rost added.

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