The Farmersville Economic Development Corporation (FEDC) has approved a new grant program aimed at helping downtown businesses install fire suppression systems.

The FEDC board voted to launch a funding initiative on Wednesday, March 5.

The grant, which was initially fully funded by FEDC with a budget surplus of $123,880, requires no upfront costs for building owners. It will cover 100% of the cost of installing fire suppression systems in commercial buildings.

Rodney Williams, executive director of the FEDC, said the program will add suppression systems to as many businesses as the budget allows.

“Farmersville is one of the few cities in Texas offering a program that covers 100% of the cost for fire suppression systems, and we’re proud to provide such an incentive to our business owners,” he said.

According to the 2024 International Fire Code (IFC), fire suppression systems are required in all new commercial buildings exceeding 5,000 square feet and used for Group A-2 occupancy, which includes restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and dining facilities.

“Adding fire suppression systems not only improves safety but also facilitates higher occupancy levels and opens the door for a wider variety of business types in downtown Farmersville,” said Matt Crowder, president of the Farmersville EDC. “This program ensures that our business owners don’t have to bear the full financial burden of meeting fire afety codes, which can be a significant barrier to starting a new business.”

“The safety of our city is crucial to preserve our downtown, the cornerstone of Farmersville,” he added.

Williams said the FEDC expects to launch a new website in the coming weeks. Until then, he can provide applications which can be submitted to his office. Applicants must include three bids from reputable contractors.

Farmersville Fire Marshal Matt Jones will review each application to ensure it adheres to code and is technically sound. Additionally, each application is reviewed and approved by the FEDC board.

This program’s 100% funding model enables building and business owners to install fire suppression systems with no upfront costs and no overall costs.

The first round of approvals has already granted funding to two local businesses: The Rusty Pistons and 1850 Mercantile. Several other businesses have also submitted applications.

“This grant will go a long way in making our downtown safer and more attractive to future businesses,” Crowder added. “Farmersville is committed to being open for business, and this program sends a clear message that we’re ready to support growth in our community.”

The program’s success is expected to not only bolster safety but also help make downtown Farmersville a more viable and dynamic destination for business owners. The city plans to continue promoting the grant to attract more applicants in the coming months.

FEDC officials are planning to request an additional $200,000 to extend the program at the next regular Farmersville City Council meeting on April 7.

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