COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Coldwater City Council approved an application Monday night for a Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District tax exemption certificate for a proposed downtown business that plans to open in two years.
The application was submitted by Valorie Johnson, who along with Dave Neitzert, is planning to open the “Purple Orchid” at 41 and 47 West Chicago Street in 2021 following a major renovation of the buildings.
Neighborhood Services Director and City Assessor Deb Sikorski said during a public hearing that the OPRA review committee recommended a 12 year approval based on several criteria
Mayor Tom Kramer said this was a ‘huge win” for the downtown. Façade restoration plans were approved earlier this year by the Coldwater Historic District Commission, which will earn the project a rebate from the Downtown Development Authority’s building improvement program. The total projected investment is estimated at over $650,000.
The City Council established the OPRA District which encompasses the properties almost six years ago
