The Old Orange Cafe's brand new paved parking lot is just one of the City of Orange's latest EDC-funded projects.
ORANGE, Texas — The City of Orange's recent business boom has brought additional revenue to the city, and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is using the funds to build the community.
EDC provides cash grants to businesses that need repairs or want to expand. They hope this will bring in new business and tourists.
For every dollar of sales tax sold within Orange city limits, 0.5 percent is donated to a fund used to support local businesses.
The Old Orange Cafe's brand new paved parking lot is just one of the City of Orange's latest EDC-funded projects.
“We can help fund things like parking and water and sewer,” said Assistant Economic Development Coordinator Hilary Gravett.
What may seem like a small improvement is a major project that any business owner in the city can apply for.
“Some existing businesses may be going through some kind of expansion mode where they want to add more business. They might want to give you a print,” Gravett said.
Funds set aside for the EDC from city sales taxes will be used for projects that welcome business owners to the area.
“Every taxable item purchased in the City of Orange is subject to a 0.5 percent sales tax. So we are able to support that 5 percent with new business that comes in,” Gravet told 12News. told.
This will help daily customers complete projects they say will benefit the business to keep its roots planted in Southeast Texas.
“This is essential and very important because when businesses are thriving, people can hire people from the community,” he said. Abdullia Ali is a regular customer.
The incentive is open year-round, and the city has seen an increase in inquiries since Chevron expanded into the area.
“We've noticed an increase in inquiries since the announcement. It's a really exciting time in Orange,” Mr Gravett said.
Applications are accepted all year round so there is no deadline, however the availability of funding depends on the projects already agreed. So hurry up and apply!
