Galesburg City Council approved two grants under the Women and/or Minority-owned business programs on Tuesday night. President of the Knox County Area Partnership for Economic Development Ken Springer spoke to the council in support of the applicants; Brittany's Beautique and All-Star Sports Academy both located on E. Knox St. Michael Spinks, Owner of All-Star Sports Academy, received a southside occupancy grant in the Summer of 2022. Since the summer, Spinks has had an opportunity to take over the skating rink. He says he's already been open for a few days. He also previewed that he hopes to possibly have a few free or discounted skate days a month. Owner Brittany Tate will open Brittany's Beautique selling clothing and accessories both in-person and online. Mayor Peter Schwarwtzman announced a public meeting later this month for citizens to discuss the programming and functions of a community center. In other action, Galesburg Aldermen passed a resolution giving $60,00
Galesburg City Council on Tuesday night can approve two more grants from the Minority and/or Woman-owned Business Startup Assistance Program and Southside Occupancy Assistance Program. The first grants are for Brittany's Beautique which proposes to lease space at 1580 E Knox Street, Suite 3. Owner Brittany Tate's business will offer fashionable clothing and accessories both in-person and online and has requested grant funds to help build inventory and strengthen the business The KCAP Review Committee also recommends $3,200 in support from the Southside Occupancy Assistance Program for Brittany's Beautique, since her southside business is located in a unit that was vacant for 90+ days prior to her lease. The other grant is for All-Star Sports Academy which looks to re-open the Skate Palace roller rink. Owner Michael Spinks also proposes using a portion of the building for a sports coaching business. Council documents say the startup funds will allow Spinks to purchase nec