The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 5108, seeks to authorize the State Bond Commission to issue bonds totaling up to twenty million dollars. The proceeds from these bonds will be allocated to the Department of Economic and Community Development, which will use the funds to provide grants-in-aid to municipalities specifically for commercial facade improvements. This initiative aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of downtown areas, thereby encouraging beautification efforts and promoting increased foot traffic and economic activity within these communities.
The bill does not contain any deletions from current law but introduces new legal language that empowers the State Bond Commission to facilitate the issuance of these bonds. The overarching goal of the legislation is to support municipalities in their efforts to improve commercial facades, which is expected to have a positive impact on local economies and community engagement.