TIFA & the Façade Improvement Grant
Keego Harbor's Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) reinvests growth in property tax revenue from its district back into the community it came from — funding improvements along the Cass Lake Road corridor rather than sending that growth to the general fund. The TIFA Board, appointed by the City, oversees this work under the adopted 2025 TIFA Redevelopment Plan.
Recent Momentum: Main Street Oakland County
In 2026, Keego Harbor's TIFA became the 30th community to join the Main Street Oakland County program — giving the Board access to nationally recognized economic development training, technical assistance, and a network of peer communities working on their own commercial corridors. The Board is using this to help shape a Main Street approach for Cass Lake Road, aligned with the City's Master Land Use Plan. This is a capacity-building partnership, not a grant program in itself — but it's shaping the projects the TIFA Board takes on next.
Today's Program: Site & Façade Improvement Grant
Applications are being accepted for the Site and Façade Improvement Grant. Business and property owners within the TIFA district can receive up to $10,000 in matching funds to improve the exterior of their buildings — from a full storefront transformation to smaller curb-appeal upgrades.
Eligible projects include:
- Façade repairs, painting, or siding replacement
- Restoration or replacement of windows and doors
- New or improved signage (must meet zoning regulations)
- Exterior lighting improvements
- Awnings or canopies
- Masonry repair, tuckpointing, or cleaning
- Public art installations or murals
- ADA accessibility improvements (ramps, handrails)
- Landscaping — planters, shrubs, decorative fencing
- Streetscape elements — benches, decorative trash receptacles
Site Improvement Grant Application (PDF)
Questions? Contact City Hall at 248-682-1930 or email the City Manager/TIFA Director at manager@keegoharbor.org to request an introductory meeting.
What's Next
The City is developing a broader business incentives policy, expected in the coming months, which may add tools beyond the façade grant. If you're planning a larger redevelopment or rehabilitation project, it's worth a conversation with City Hall now — some projects may be positioned to benefit once new tools are in place. For updates, watch TIFA Board agendas and minutes or contact the Building Department at (248) 682-1930 x3.
