The Downtown Hartville Civic Improvement Fund (CIF) offers reimbursement grants to downtown commercial property owners for exterior façade restoration and property improvement projects within Downtown Hartville. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to help offset eligible project costs. Property owners are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their buildings, strengthen their investment, and contribute to the continued beautification and revitalization of Downtown Hartville.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the fund’s purpose?
The Downtown Hartville Civic Improvement Fund is established to encourage the preservation, rehabilitation, and enhancement of buildings within Downtown Hartville through strategic public-private investment. The program supports projects that improve the appearance, economic vitality, and long-term sustainability of the Downtown District while preserving the architectural character that contributes to Hartville’s unique sense of place. Funded improvements should strengthen the visual quality of the downtown environment, encourage reinvestment in existing buildings, enhance pedestrian appeal and accessibility, support local businesses and nonprofit organizations, and protect historically significant architectural features. Projects shall be consistent with the Village of Hartville’s adopted design standards and, where applicable, recognized historic preservation best practices.
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How much funding is available?
The Downtown Hartville Civic Improvement Fund was established in the spring of 2026 through an initial investment of $50,000 in private contributions administered by Hartville Lake Community Development (HLCD). Grant awards are made on a competitive basis and are subject to the availability of funds.Approved projects shall be funded through the following cost-sharing structure:- 40% Civic Improvement Fund contribution
- 10% Village of Hartville contribution
- 50% Applicant contribution
Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide their required matching share before award approval. Grants shall be awarded as reimbursement grants following project completion, submission of paid invoices, and final project inspection and approval.
The minimum grant award shall be $1,500.00, and the maximum grant award shall be $5,000.00, with flexibility for larger catalytic projects.Funding may not be reserved until a formal Memorandum of Understanding has been executed. The program reserves the right to partially fund applications based on available resources and project priorities.
If you or someone you know would be interested in contributing to the Fund for future investments in our Downtown community, click on the DONATE button at the top of this webpage.
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Who are eligible applicants?
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- Downtown commercial property owners
- Downtown business owners and non-profit organizations
- Must have the property owners’ written consent
- Partnerships involving the Village of Hartville
NOTE: All applicants must be in good standing with the Village of Hartville at the time of application and throughout the project period.
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- No Outstanding Fees
- No Outstanding Property Taxes
- No Unresolved Ordinance Code Violations
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What are eligible properties?
The Defined Project Area includes commercial properties located along Maple Street (SR 619) from Stadium Drive east to Wales Drive; along Prospect Avenue from High Street south to Woodland Street; and along Sunnyside Street from Belle Avenue to Prospect Avenue. Please refer to the accompanying map for additional project area details and boundary clarification.
Commercial properties adjacent to the defined project area may also apply. Preference will be given to projects located within the designated project area boundaries.
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What are eligible improvements?
Eligible projects must result in a permanent exterior improvement that enhances the appearance, functionality, historic character, or economic vitality of the property and the surrounding Downtown environment.
Eligible improvements may include:
- Exterior painting in accordance with approved Downtown color and design standards
- Exterior siding repair or replacement with appropriate materials
- Repair, restoration, or replacement of windows and exterior doors
- Storefront rehabilitation and restoration
- Masonry cleaning, repair, and repointing
- Restoration of historic architectural features, including cornices, trim, decorative details, transoms, and similar elements
- Façade reconstruction based on documented historic evidence
- Decorative exterior lighting
- Removal of non-historic alterations that detract from architectural character
- Awnings and architectural canopies are compatible with the adopted design standards
- Permanent landscaping and streetscape improvements are directly associated with the building façade
- Site & Accessibility Improvements
– Parking Lot Resurfacing or Repair
– Sidewalk Repair or Replacement
– Accessibility Improvements, Including ADA-Compliant Walkways and Entrances
Other exterior improvements approved by the Village Architectural Review Board and HLCD that further the goals of the program.
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What are ineligible improvements?
The following activities are generally ineligible for funding:- Interior improvements not visible from the public right-of-way
- Routine maintenance that does not result in a significant visual or preservation benefit
- General property maintenance, including pressure washing, minor patching, seasonal painting touch-ups, and similar activities
- Temporary decorations, displays, banners, flags, or seasonal installations
- Portable or movable landscaping features
- Inventory, furnishings, equipment, or operational expenses
- Debt service, loan payments, or refinancing costs
- Property acquisition costs
- Property demolition costs
- Improvements completed prior to grant approval
- New building construction unrelated to rehabilitation of an existing structure
- Work undertaken without required permits or approvals
- Projects that do not comply with Village design standards or applicable building regulations
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What is the application process?
Applications shall be submitted through the official Downtown Hartville Civic Improvement Fund application portal and must include all required supporting documentation.
Downtown Hartville Civic Improvement Fund Grant Application
Applications shall include:- Completed online application form
- Current photographs of all project areas
- Detailed project description and scope of work
- Itemized cost estimates from qualified contractors or suppliers
- Material specifications, color samples, product literature, or architectural drawings as applicable
- Property owner authorization, if submitted by a tenant
- Any additional information requested by HLCD or the Village Architectural Review Board
Applications shall be accepted on a rolling basis or according to published funding cycles. Complete applications will be reviewed by HLCD staff and the Village Architectural Review Board for eligibility and compliance with program requirements.
Applicants may be asked to present their proposal during the review process. Following approval, applicants must execute a grant agreement before beginning work.Grant funds shall be distributed only after project completion, final inspection, submission of paid invoices, proof of payment, and approval of all completed work. Approved projects must generally be completed within twelve (12) months of award notification unless an extension is granted. -
What is the application review criteria?
Eligible applications shall be evaluated using a competitive scoring process designed to advance the goals of downtown revitalization, historic preservation, and economic development. Reviewers shall consider the following criteria:- Visual and Community Impact. The extent to which the project improves the appearance of the property and contributes positively to the overall character and attractiveness of Downtown Hartville.
- Consistency with Downtown Design Standards. The degree to which the proposed work supports adopted design guidelines, architectural compatibility, and community character objectives.
- Historic Preservation Benefit. The extent to which the project preserves, restores, or appropriately rehabilitates historic architectural features and materials.
- Project Readiness and Feasibility. The likelihood that the project can be completed successfully within the proposed timeframe and budget.
- Long-Term Economic and Community Benefit. The project’s potential to encourage additional investment, improve property utilization, support local businesses, or strengthen downtown vitality.
- Visibility and Public Benefit. The degree to which improvements are visible from public spaces and contribute to the experience of residents, visitors, customers, and downtown stakeholders.
NOTE: HLCD and the Village of Hartville reserve the right to consider geographic distribution, funding availability, project diversity, and overall community benefit when making final award decisions.
