The Park and Downtown Improvement Corporation on an October meeting voted to reallocate the remaining balance of a previously awarded grant and approve an additional $23,900 to cover asbestos abatement and air monitoring at the BMT Community Center, 301 South Rockwall Avenue.

Devonna Thomas, whose family owns the BMT Community Center, told the board the building has asbestos and that removal was more expensive than anticipated. "We have asbestos in the building, and it's very costly, which we didn't anticipate the amount," Thomas said. She told the board abatement must be completed before demolition or construction work can begin.

Staff financial notes in the meeting packet show the board originally approved a $45,000 grant for the project in May 2024. Invoices submitted to date total $16,400, leaving a balance of $28,600. Board materials and Thomas's presentation showed the low abatement bid was from OneReef LLC for $37,000, plus $15,500 for required air monitoring — a combined estimate of $52,500.

Board member Raelynn (finance staff) confirmed the $45,000 award and the invoices submitted. After discussion, Board President asked for a motion "to reallocate the remainder of the grant balance, and provide an additional $23,900 to cover the full cost of abatement and air monitoring." Board member Stephanie moved the motion; board members Sarah and JC seconded. The board approved the measure by voice vote.

Thomas said she will provide the board updated budgets as she moves into the construction phase and that additional fundraising or outside investment will likely be needed to complete construction work.

The board did not specify a formal reporting deadline for follow-up budget documents but asked Thomas to share an updated construction budget when available.