RULES LOOSER FOR MERCHANT GRANTS.

Byline: Naush Boghossian Staff Writer

GLENDALE - In an effort to beautify downtown, city officials made it easier Tuesday for shop owners to get grants to renovate and upgrade their store facades.

The Redevelopment Agency unanimously voted to increase the maximum grant that each business can receive from $30,000 to $40,000 and to lower the matching fund requirement from 50 percent to 25 percent. That means a business owner can obtain a $40,000 grant with an investment of $10,000.

Only 30 businesses have obtained a grant since the program began in 1996.

``We want to change it because people are not taking advantage of it,'' Mayor Bob Yousefian said. ``We're a first-class city, and we want to continue to be that, and the only way we can is to keep up appearances.

``You'll see all these old buildings, and some places look like parts of Hollywood. It's not very inviting, and it makes you feel like you're not in Glendale.''

Grants can be used to improve signage, entryways, windows and storefront glass, exterior paint and architectural lighting and landscaping.

While city staff has been trying to publicize the grant program, Councilman Frank Quintero said the city had to do more.

Judee Kendall, executive vice president of the Glendale Chamber of Commerce, said even a minor face-lift can do wonders for a store.

``It's all about getting the word out there so businesses that don't know about it can take advantage of it,'' Kendall said. ``It's very important, and I think it can make a big difference for them.

``I think people are more willing to come into businesses that look more fresh and inviting.''

Naush Boghossian, [phone]

naush.boghossian(at)dailynews.com

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