Historic Preservation Commission recommendation to approve a Resolution Amending Resolution No. 2026-100 Authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to Execute a Facade Improvement Agreement between the City of St. Charles and Padala Investments, LLC

Program Description
The Façade Improvement Grant program provides assistance to property owners and commercial tenants to rehabilitate and restore the exterior of buildings in the downtown. Grant funding is available for buildings located in Special Service Area 1B (Downtown Revitalization) or in a Historic District or designated Historic Landmark site. Applications are first reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission for appropriateness of design. The grants are provided as a reimbursement for up to 50% of the funds invested into an exterior rehabilitation project involving new improvements and up to 25% for maintenance work. Up to $10,000 is available for a 30 ft. length of building façade. There is a limit of $20,000 of grant funds per property in any 5 year period or $30,000 for a Landmark property.

Proposal
Praveen Padala, Padala Investments LLC, has requested a Façade Improvement grant for the property located a 314-316 W Main Street. The proposal is to repair the concrete steps, private walk, and retaining wall with epoxy and replace the two front doors with fiberglass doors. 

Historic Commission Review 9-16-2026

The Historic Commission reviewed the grant and unanimously recommended approval because the project because incorporates high quality doors that are appropriate for doors facing Main Street and the concrete work adds to the preservation of the building. The approval was for amended scope of work and cost proposal. 

City Council Review 

The City Council approved a resolution for this project on August 3, 2026, Resolution No. 2026-100. The applicant has decided to change the scope of work for the concrete from removing and replacing to repairing and adding an epoxy on top. The proposed cost of work has also changed. The applicant was originally approved for $13,600 and now is asking for $11, 548.31. 

Grant Amount

Total Cost of Project: $23,096.62.

The project is eligible to receive up to $11,548.31, based on 50% reimbursement for improvement, replacement, or installation of storefront systems, doors, windows, and trim material. 

Recommendation: Approve