As part of budget planning at the end of the 2022-2023 fiscal year, the Rice EDC presented ambitious plans to encourage business growth and develop community spaces.
Community Building
Parks & Recreation Improvements: Our goal is to create a climate controlled environment for our City of Rice Gym, and the batting cages at Mike Dickens Memorial Park. This will make our recreational spaces more inviting for sporting and other event rentals; and also make the gym safer and more comfortable for the community,
- We will use budget money to purchase an 18’ Fan for the Gym, and an additional portable evaporative cooler to be used in the batting cages at Mike Dickens Memorial Park.
- We will pursue grant money to install air conditioning, and other climate control updates, and general improvements to the City of Rice Gym.
Downtown Public Green Space: Our goal is to create a safe and attractive space at the corner of Calhoun & Dallas (current Farmer’s Market) for our residents and downtown visitors.
- Phase 1: We will use budget money to add lights (donated) and 50 AMP electric hookups. These improvements will not only create a safer environment, but will make it a more attractive location for vendors and events.
- Phase 2: We will pursue grant money as part of our larger plan to include shaded coverings, paved walkways, food truck/parking pads, entrance, etc.
Business Building
Advertising: Our goal is to help draw attention to Rice as a viable location for new businesses and as a destination for visitors to our businesses and events.
- We will use budget money to purchase online ads and/or publication ads featuring Rice businesses, City of Rice events, and to generally promote the viability of our city.
- We will pursue free opportunities in local newspapers, and on social media for additional exposure
Business Grant: Our goal is to increase local sales by growing existing businesses, and attracting new business – resulting in more sales tax revenue. Our application process will require that applicants have a comprehensive plan for growth, and establish their financial requirements. It will include a scoring process and a structured follow-up process, to ensure accountability.
- We will use budget money to grant qualified applicants funding to suit their proposed plan (up to $30,000 – total, per our 2024 fiscal year budget ).
- We will offer free resources to businesses who need help developing their business plan.
The Rice EDC Budget and Project Plans were approved by the Rice City Council by a unanimous vote (10/10/23). The Rice EDC is happy to work in partnership with the City of Rice, local businesses, citizen volunteers, local media, and everyone involved in helping us fulfill our initiatives.