PIQUA — The Piqua City Commission on Tuesday, May 6, approved several resolutions, including a $110,000 small business grant to support renovations at 311 N. Main St., the former Referees Sports Bar. The building, recently purchased by the owners of the Submarine House franchise, will undergo exterior updates as part of a $451,000 investment.
Economic Development Director Chris Schmiesing said the funding comes from a 2022 program designed to help small businesses recover post-COVID. Of the 25 grants issued, 23 projects were completed, leaving about $110,000 available, which will now be used for this renovation project.
Commissioners also:
- Approved engineering services with Fishbeck for Phase II of the I-75 exit 78 development plan.
- Authorized a liquor license transfer involving the Scottish Thistle.
- Approved the $114,714 purchase of two cardiac monitors for the fire department.
- Entered into an agreement with Bricker Graydon for economic development legal services.
- Appointed Alex Karabinis to the park board through 2030.
During public comments, residents raised concerns about proposed changes to the Swift Run Lake Dam, including potential impacts on wildlife, the environment, and up to 2,400 burial plots in Forest Hill Cemetery. The $20 million plan from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources would include embankment work, slope adjustments, and tree removal.
