Frenchtown business owners discuss CRA grant

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Recently the Community Redevelopment Agency changed their normal meeting time from the afternoon to the evening.

"That is fantastic," said Alexis Roberts McMillan, Manager at Economy Drug Store.

McMillan runs a drug store just off the corner of West Tennessee and North Macomb. McMillan plans on attending the CRA workshop Monday night, something she wasn't able to do before.

"If it's after work, if it's at the close of the day. It's better for everybody I would think," said McMillan.

There are several key issues on the agenda, including business grants, one specifically for owners to help rebuild the exterior of businesses.

The CRA grant has been in existence since 2007, it provides business owners with matching funds up to 50,000 depending on how much the business puts in on a face-lift for their building.

Stephen Beasley, Owner of Beasley Associates, took advantage of the grant several years ago and says he thinks it's something the CRA should continue.

Others believe there needs to be more done for the area.

"I think it improved the image of Frenchtown and I'm very supportive of it," said Beasley.

The CRA currently has $56 million that they're devoting to revitalizing and redeveloping the area.

Monday's meeting is expected to last until 8:30 p.m.