Façade Improvement Program

Program Overview:

The Village of Ellsworth Façade Improvement Program (FIP) was created to encourage high-quality exterior improvements to commercial properties within the downtown, uptown, and East End Business Districts.

The program supports building restoration that emphasizes historic character and architectural integrity while aligning with the Village’s Downtown Design Guidelines. By enhancing the visual appeal of our business districts, the Village aims to create a more vibrant, inviting streetscape that increases foot traffic and strengthens property values.

Goals:

• Preserve and restore the historic significance of downtown structures
• Promote cohesive architectural aesthetics in business districts
• Improve the overall appearance of commercial areas
• Encourage reinvestment in the community
• Support long-term economic vitality

The Village provides financial assistance to eligible commercial property owners for approved façade improvements.

Funding Details

• Village participation: 50% of eligible rehabilitation costs
• Minimum award: $2,500
• Maximum award: $15,000 per project
• Property owners may receive assistance once every three (3) years per building
• A property owner may apply for funding for another qualifying building
• Funding is subject to annual appropriation by the Village Board
• Awards are granted on a first-come, first-served basis

If funds are not committed to downtown projects by July 1, remaining funds may be used for:

• Projects throughout the Village consistent with the program’s intent (priority given to those impacting the downtown area), or
• Village-led downtown improvement projects

Applications are accepted twice per year:

• February 1
• July 1
  
  

Grant awards are finalized following:

• March Village Board meeting (for February 1 applications)
• August Village Board meeting (for July 1 applications)

Preference may be given to:

• Historic buildings
• Applicants who have not previously received funding

All awards are made at the sole discretion of the Selection Committee.

Selection Committee Members:

• Village President
• Finance Committee Chairperson
• Community Development Authority Chairperson
• Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce Board President
• Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
• Plan Commission Chairman

Eligible:

Funds may be used for exterior repairs and aesthetic improvements, including:

• Cleaning of building exterior
• Exterior painting
• Masonry repair and tuckpointing
• Removal of metal or wood covering historic façades
• Repair of front, rear, and side façades
• Repair or replacement of cornices, entrances, doors, windows, decorative details, and awnings
• Signage removal, repair, or replacement (when part of a comprehensive façade project)
• Other labor and materials used to rehabilitate the façade
  
  

If hiring a contractor, the contractor must be licensed.

Ineligible: 

The following are not eligible for funding:

• Demolition of buildings
• Inappropriate cleaning methods or repairs
• Installation of metal or vinyl siding
• Interior improvements
• Roofing
• Parking lot improvements

Applicants must submit a completed application by the February 1 or July 1 deadline.

Applications must include:

• Detailed project plans showing all proposed work (including structural repairs, if applicable)
• Two price quotes from retail suppliers (for materials-only projects)
• Paint color samples (if applicable)
• Material samples (if requested)
• Project completion schedule
• At least two 8" x 10" color “before” photographs showing all areas of work

Important:

• Work may not begin until the application is approved. Expenses incurred prior to approval are not eligible for reimbursement.
• Any changes to the approved scope of work must receive pre-approval from the FIP Review Committee. Deviating from the approved plan may result in disqualification from the grant program.

The program operates on a reimbursement basis.

To receive funds, property owners must submit:

• A reimbursement request form
• Proof of payment to contractor or supplier
• At least two 8" x 10" color “after” photographs showing completed work

• February 1 applicants: Project must be completed by December 31 of the awarded year
• July 1 applicants: Project must be completed by December 31 of the following awarded year

The Village does not discriminate against any contractor or consultant based on:

• Age
• Color
• Developmental disability (as defined in Wisconsin Statute §51.01(5))
• Handicap
• National origin
• Physical condition
• Race
• Religion
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

To request an application:

• Call Village Hall at 715-273-4742
• Or complete the application below and return it to our office by the deadlines listed on the application.