Downtown Development Authorities (DDAs) in Michigan are government entities established by local municipalities to promote and facilitate the growth and revitalization of downtown areas within their respective communities. DDAs play a crucial role in fostering economic development, enhancing the overall quality of life, and preserving the unique characteristics of downtown districts across the state.

A variety of economic development incentives and assistance programs are available for redevelopment projects within the City.

Façade Improvement Program

The Fennville Downtown Development Authority maintains a façade improvement program, funding two improvement projects annually up to a maximum of $10,000 at a 50% matching rate. Projects can focus on improving downtown building facades or on improving ADA standards compliance for businesses. Inquire with the City Administrator to obtain an application. Applications are due April 1st of each year. 

Fennville has also taken the necessary steps to authorize a Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, allowing developers to potentially make use of tax increment financing plans (TIFs) for development in Fennville that occurs on a Brownfield site. A list of known contamination can be found from EGLE. Please contact the City Administrator with any questions regarding Brownfield Redevelopment incentives, and how your property can get tax incentives for environmental cleanup. 

The City of Fennville has experience in conducting Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements with property developers, in order to facilitate the development of housing that is accessible to low-income, disabled, and elderly residents. In a PILOT program, the property owner will pay a service fee rather than regular property taxes for providing affordable housing. For more information on PILOT agreements in Fennville please contact the City Administrator, or read from MSHDA.

Density Bonuses

Fennville encourages residential density bonuses in Planned Use Developments, allowing for proportionally more residential units in accordance with the amount of land set aside for open space. See § 21.2 (A)(3) of the Zoning Code of Ordinances for more information. 

Additionally, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation offers numerous financing programs aimed towards small and medium-sized businesses. Some programs require sponsorship by local City authorities, so reach out to City staff if an opportunity interests you. Learn more at: I Need Funding | Programs & Services | Michigan Business