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Message Facade Program Manual

QUESTIONS?WEBSITEwww.kentvillebusiness.caSOCIAL MEDIA@wearekentvilleCONTACT US!902-385-0035info@kentvillebusiness.ca03INTRODUCTION05KENTVILLE FACADE PROGRAM18APPLICATION FORMSTable ofContentsKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL

The Downtown ToolboxFacade programs are one of ahandful of useful tools at the disposalof municipalities to reinvigoratedowntowns. The economic spin-offsusually far exceed the initialinvestment while creating a buzz ofactivity for the downtown.The Kentville Business Community (KBC), in cooperation with the Town ofKentville, initiated a Facade Incentive Program in June of 2016. Theprogram is one in a series of tools planned for the rejuvenation andreinvestment in downtown Kentville. KBC works to create a community which is supportive and welcoming tocurrent and future businesses, professionals, and organizations, and toattract people to shop, use services, and spend time in Kentville. KBC is anon-profit organization governed by a board of directors drawn directlyfrom the business community, and works closely with the Town of Kentville toachieve goals pertaining to the growth and vitality of Kentville’s economyIntroductionKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL3

History of KentvilleKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL4Kentville was founded on the banks of theJijuktu’kwejk River (aka: the Cornwallis River) ata narrow junction, upstream of it becomingtidal. Sailing ships were just able to reach thislocation and the river was just narrow enough tocross. The crossing and later the bridge atKentville made the settlement an importantcrossroads for other communities in theAnnapolis Valley. Though originally settled bythe Mi’kmaq and later the Acadians, it was theNew England Planters and United EmpireLoyalists that grew this area of the Valley at thecrossroads and several stagecoach inns andshopkeepers set up to service the growing area. When the Windsor and Annapolis Railway (laterthe Dominion Atlantic Railway) built itsheadquarters in Kentville in 1868, the communitybegan to grow and change. The Cornwallis Inn(now Main Street Station) was built by therailway in the Town’s Centre and it stands as aprominent architectural style today. Kentvillelost many heritage buildings in the postwarperiod and is one of the only towns in NovaScotia without a single designated heritagebuilding. The existing commercial styles in Kentville rangefrom Victorian, neo-classical, Queen AnneRevival, Second Empire, to Maritime Industrialand Gothic Revival. Please ensure the originalarchitectural style of the building (if present)is maintained or enhanced as part of thefacade improvements.

KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALThe Facade Improvement Program is managed by the Kentville BusinessCommunity (KBC) through a grant provided by the Town of Kentville. The KBC works to further the funding process and assist each business inacquiring funds and professional services required to complete this project andwill approve façade designs proposed by the building owners. Facade ProgramProject Boundary5

EligibilityKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALThe facade program has been designedto maximize the visual impacts of exteriorimprovements in the downtown. To thatend, applications must be:properties that are located within theprogram boundary area commercial properties only. Residentialonly properties will not be considered.visible exterior façade improvements(like windows, doors, siding, etc), and insome cases, professional fees(structural, architectural, electrical,etc.) which may be needed toimplement more significant exteriorchanges.fixing broken components first. Forinstance, if a window is broken or sidingis falling off, then the application shouldinclude the repair of these items. Otherfacade improvements will beconsidered for funding as long asbroken or deteriorating items are fixedas part of the application. Projects must address one or morestandard elements of a public façade: Lightingsignsprojecting wall signsflat fixed wall signscanopy signsCivic numbersSiding and trimPaintWindows and doorsHardscapingInterior alterations are not eligible forthis program even if the exterioralterations require interior modifications.Similarly, changes that are not visible fromthe public sidewalk like roofs, sides ofbuildings or chimneys may not be eligiblefor the program. All proposed works should conform to anylocal bylaws or building codes. 6

KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALApplicants may budget any amount for their project, however, successful applicants mayreceive up to 50% of a project cost, up to a maximum of $10,000 per applicant for thebuilding façade improvement stream and a maximum of $2,500 per applicant for the newbusiness stream. Properties that front two streets could be eligible for $15,000 of matching fundsdepending on program uptake at the discretion of the KBC.Application ProcessTo be eligible for funding, the property owners must follow the basic recommendationsoutlined in this manual. They do not need to follow the exact conceptual plan, as it wasdeveloped to provide examples of some recommended facade improvements. Final façade plans and cost estimates must be submitted with the application form(Appendix A) to be checked by the KBC prior to receiving approval for funding. Plansshould be consistent with the criteria outlined in this manual to ensure a high standard ofdesign and construction on the street. The program will not fund improvements which do not contribute to the overall image ofthe downtown streetscape character. 7

1Preliminary Illustrationsof proposed building renovations withadequate notes to demonstrate design,materials and proposed colour schemefor all changes;2One Cost Estimate or Tenderfrom a qualified contractor. A ‘qualified contractor’ must have an HST registration number, be insured and be in the full-time business of contracting. An itemized estimate should be provided on thecontractor’s letterhead with HST number visible and a copy of their certificateof insurance.3Paintingcan be completed by the property owner without the need for a contractor. Inthis case, an estimate of painting materials should be provided with theapplication form. All other improvements require a qualified contractor.4Professional Drawingswhich may be necessary to implementthe façade changes (structural,electrical, engineering etc) should beincluded if they are available.5Construction Scheduleincluding a proposed completion datebefore April 1st, 2026. The money forthis program must be spent in 2025/26.KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALSubmission RequirementsTo save time and effort before seeking estimates, applicants are encouraged to contactKBC with any facade questions. During the application process the owner must submit:8

Applying to this program is not the same asapplying to the Town for a building permit.Many of the projects funded under thisprogram may also require a permit fromthe Town of Kentville, and proponents mustapply for any required permits beforeundertaking work. If you’re unsure whether your projectrequires a permit, please visit the Townof Kentville website for forms andinformation, or visit the Engineering orPlanning departments at Town Hall. Work done without all required permitsis illegal and will not be funded. PermitsIf the contractor’s cost estimate seems tobe high for the work proposed, KBC has thesole discretion to recommend anotherestimate be prepared by anothercontractor. When the project is complete, theowner must schedule a site inspectionby KBC to ensure the project is built asapproved. Owners should note that deviation fromthe original design drawings may begrounds for not approving funding.Once the inspection is completed, KBCwill issue a letter of acceptance to theowner and will issue the funding withinone week of an approved inspection.Approved projects will not receive fundsuntil the project is complete andinspected. ConditionsApplication Process Cont.KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL9

KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALTo be eligible for the full funding of the program, owners must use materialsthat are consistent with high quality standards and consistent with thearchitectural character of the building. The following list of materials thatare acceptable and unacceptable are listed below. Materials not outlinedin this list may be eligible pending approval by the KBC FaçadeImprovement Committee.Facade Design Elements10Window applicationTransomCanopyFlat fixed wall signLightingCorniceSiding and trimProjecting wall signCanopy SignDoorWindows

SidingCladding and TrimSiding that will be considered for fundingincludes brick, stone. metal, and wood. Novinyl will be considered in applications tothis program. No material that mimics amore expensive material (e.g. stonetile)will be considered for this applicationunless approved by KBC. The buildingmaterial must be sympathetic to theoriginal architectural style of the building. Shakes and ClapboardWood siding degrades over time and mustbe replaced or repaired periodically.Applications may include replacingshingles, clapboard, or board and batten,and may be a wholesale replacement ofcladding, or a spot repair of a rottensection. TrimExterior trim may be updated andrefreshed, including, but not limited tocornices, door/window trim, cornerboards, friezes, and baseboards. Original trim cannot be replaced unless itis already past the point of repair (e.g.wood members are rotten). Trim must be consistent in style throughoutthe façade; and it must be in keeping withthe building’s historical style.Brick and StoneRepair of stone has different requirementsfrom brick; if you have a stone wall, contact aprofessional who specializes in stone. If brick is painted prior to this application,then painting of the brick façade may beconsidered for funding under this program. Both brick and stone may be refreshed in afew ways:RESETTING: damaged bricks or stones mustbe removed, replaced with new material, andthe gap must be re-mortared. REPOINTING: all mortar between bricks orstones decays over time. Repointing meansadding new mortar to the exterior surface tofill in gaps that have formed. It’s the wayto make a wall look new again. PAINT STRIPPING: removing paint and othermaterials from the outside of walls. Severalmethods are possible. Sandblasting damagesbrick and is not eligible. KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL11

AnalgousComplementaryTints, Shades, and TonesIf you are looking for a solid, subtle scheme that is harmonious and simple, select a single colour and then add white (tints), black (shades) or grey (tones). Schemes which use a few variations on asingle colour are often called monochromatic. Complementary, analogous and tints, shadesand tones are just a few options. Several other methods are common.This is the most eye-grabbing scheme, it can be vibrant or jarring depending on the context.Complementary schemes use colours which are the highest possible contrast from each other,such as red/green. Colours on opposite sides of the colour wheel are complementary. ComplementaryHow to select a paletteTo create a façade which is appealing and respects its surroundings, only 2–3 colours shouldbe used, including paint and sign graphics. If the project is being designed by a professional(e.g. an architect), most will recommend a palette during the design process. Paint stores areaccustomed to helping clients select colours and would generally be able to find anappropriate palette for a building façade. Even when working with professionals, you maywish to have a starting point you’re comfortable with. Select a colour you like from thingsaround you (e.g. plants, clothing, wood, metal). Take a photo to bring it to your designer orpaint retailer. The colour combinations that are possible are essentially infinite, but there area few standard methods that yield appealing results. AnalgousColours which are next to each otheron the colour wheel are analogous,and tend to be serene andcomforting, such as blue/green orred/orange.ColourKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL12

Funding will not be approved if the following conditions exist: Air conditioning units or mechanical vents blocking upperfaçade windowsWindows that are boarded up or brokenUpper level windows covered with advertisementsUpper Level WindowsWindowsSingle pane windows should be replaced with traditionalwindows that fit the buildings’ architectural character. For theheritage styles found in Kentville, multi-pane mullions provide amore accurate revival of the buildings’ architectural style. Replacement windows must fit in the existing opening of thebuilding, and must match the original width-to-height ratio,orientation alignment, and style of the original building.In addition: Windows must be clear-glazed (not coloured). Windows should be double or single hung: donot use sliders or horizontal windows.Vinyl frames are acceptable DoorsDoors to first floor businesses should be high quality glass oraluminum doors. Replacement doors must fit in the existingopening of the building, and must match the original width-to-height ratio, orientation alignment, and style of the originalhistoric building (any building older than 60 years old). Windows and doors play a key role in a building’s appearance and street presence. Ablank wall makes the sidewalk less inviting, while a storefront with balanced transparencyand color draws people in. General GuidelinesOriginal-style windows enhance the historical attributes of buildings and streets. Vinyl windows are acceptable but traditional windows are preferred on historicbuildings. Windows and DoorsKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL13

Canopy SignsCivic NumbersWindow SignsProjecting Wall SignsFlat Fixed Wall SignsQualifying Signage Signs highlight downtown Kentville’s historic character while attracting pedestriansand street traffic. Kentville’s Land Use By-laws provide clear guidelines for selectingappropriate signs. This program encourages high quality signs and discourages lowcost plastic, backlit or vinyl signs with printed lettering. KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALNot counting civic numbers and window signs, each building can have up to three sign fixtures total, with maximums for each type: one projecting wall sign, two canopy signs, two flat fixed wall signs.14

KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALSignageWindow SignsWindow signs should be in a uniform place ineach business along the streetscape. Suchsigns should match the colour scheme of thefaçade, and must be at a uniform height:between 1.4 and 1.5 metres above grade. Window signs are only allowed on theground level. Window signs should not cover more than40% of the window glass.Canopy Signsvinyl-laminated polyester-reinforcedfabric woven acrylic canvasCanopies (aka awnings), define awelcoming outside space at thesidewalk, and provide refuge from rainand sun. Canopies must use high-quality, durablefabrics that degrade slowly and keeptheir colour for many years. Poor-qualitycanopies will fail quickly and must not beused. Some options: Fixed Flat Wall SignsSigns which are parallel to the façade, usuallymounted to the façade face. They are alsoknown as fascia signs. Fixed flat wall signs arebest when they do not affect the storefrontbehind pin-mounted lettering is ideal, thoughrouted (CNC or laser-cut) wood and otherforms are acceptable. Signage may notextend beyond the eaves at the top of thebuilding or beyond the side of the wall. Projecting wall signs must be mounted so thatall signs on the street are at approximatelythe same height. clearances must meet bylaw requirements.signs should be mounted between first andsecond storeys; Signs should be at least 100 mm from anyelectrical boxes or conduits.Sign face can’t be larger than 2 sq.m. inarea.Sign can’t be free swinging (it must have acatch or chain). Projecting Wall SignsCivic NumbersThey may seem inconsequential, butcivic numbers can provide a unified lookbetween buildings in a business district.Civic number signs are eligible withinthis program if they fit the following: Numbers must be mounted in thetransom (above the front door) ifpossible. If the numbers can’t bemounted in the transom, they must bemounted in a position at least 2–2.5metres above grade.Digits (e.g. 5423) must be at least 100mm high.Digits must be in clearly legibleletterforms; faux-scripts are notacceptable.Numbers must not be written out aswords (e.g. “Five thousand fourhundred and twenty three” is notacceptable).15

Hardscaping& LightingKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALLightingFaçade lighting eligible in this program is fixed flat wall sign lamps. Lights must shine on the fascia sign,and not on the sidewalk, the road or onto otherproperties. The most common type for lighting fascia signs isgooseneck lamps (also known as RLM). Gooseneck fixtures are common and readilyavailable. Other styles of lighting will be considered on a per case basis. HardscapingIn 2019 “hardscaping” was included in the eligibilitycriteria. Hardscaping includes design features that are notdirectly on the applicant’s building but are permanent,along the street frontage, and add to the overall aestheticof the building. Some options include Concrete or stonework Fences or gates Permanent garden structures16

AssistiveDevicesEnsuring that employees and consumers with disabilities have the devicesthey need to effectively do their jobs and access places of business.UniversalDesign Training in the field of Universal Design, for technical serviceprofessionals or persons with disabilities that want to better understandits value.TransportationProviding support for businesses to improve access to transportationservices.BuiltEnvironmentRemoving physical barriers to access business services by installingramps, accessible washrooms, door openers, and other projects.CommunicationServicesEnsuring that all customers, clients, and employees can accessinformation related to a business.AccessibililtyKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALIn 2017, Nova Scotia set a goal to be fully accessible by 2030 under the Accessibility Act. Tomeet this goal the province has introduced a Business ACCESS-Ability Grant Program, throughwhich businesses can apply for cost-shared funding for accessibility projects. Improvementscan be for clients/customers, employees, or both. The KBC encourages all businesses to explorethis program and take advantage of the opportunity it presents. The program has five elements:Where multi-unit commercial buildings have multiple businesses, each with street frontage,applications relating to each business may be considered for that building provided the tenantlease states that the landlord will provide the façade improvement as a leasehold improvement orthe landlord will provide the façade improvements with cost recovered through additional rent.17

Name: Business Name: Phone: Email: Address: You are the owner of the building? * If you are not the owner, please providea letter of approval from the buildingowner to undertake the improvements.No YesProposed Facade Improvement Description: To be considered for funding, please complete the following form and include requiredinformation as indicated below. Once complete, please submit to info@kentvillebusiness.ca.Please ensure your submission conforms to the requirements as out-lined in the DowntownKentville Facade Design Manual. Application Deadline: Kentville Business Community will continue to accept applicationsuntil December 31, 2025, or until all 2025/26 façade program funding has been allocated.KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALIn addition to the information above, the check boxes below must be completed to provideaccompanying information for the application’s evaluation. Evaluations are at the discretionof the Facade Improvement Committee in conformance with the manual. Photo of the existing Facade Drawing showing proposed improvements & colour schemeSignature of Applicant DateFACADE IMPROVEMENTAPPLICATION FORM 18Appendix A

Any additional quotes should accompany the submission. FACADE IMPROVEMENTCONTRACTORQUOTATION The applicant certifies that construction will be completed before April 1st, 2026. Onceapproved, the applicant will pay the contractor in full, submitting to KBC a receipt fromthe contractor. KBC will inspect the work to ensure it was completed according to theapproved application and will remit within 1 week of approval. Please provide at least one detailed quotation from an HST registered contractor whoseprimary business is the supply and installation of the improvements you are requesting.The applicant certifies that the cost-estimate is consistent with the improvementsproposed in the application. Any deviation from an approved application should beconfirmed in advance with KBC or the funding to the applicant cannot be guaranteed. Signature of Applicant DateBusiness Name: Phone: Email: Address: HST #: Quotation Amount: Contractor’s Name: CONTRACTOR #1 CONTRACTOR #2Business Name: Phone: Email: Address: HST #: Quotation Amount: Contractor’s Name: Appendix AKENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUAL19

KENTVILLE BUSINESS COMMUNITY | FACADE PROGRAM MANUALInspection &PaymentApplicationKBCReview ConstructionOne week aftersubmissionSubmitapplicationbefore Dec 31st,2025Applicationreview can takeup to one monthComplete beforeApril 2026Research8. KBC inspects construction forconformance with application 9. Upon approval, KBC issues chequeto owner for matching funds 2. Fill out the Application form3. Obtain at least 1 quote forimprovements5. KBC Sends a letter of authorization 4. KBC Façade Committee reviewsapplication6. Select a contractor and proceedwith improvements7. Complete construction and paycontractor. Issue receipts to KBC. 1. Read the Design Manual & confirmproposed changes are consistent. APPLICATIONPROCESS & TIMELINES20