City of Kirksville, Missouri – Community and Economic Development Department

About

At the city of Kirksville, Missouri, Community and Economic Development, our goal is to create an environment conducive to both business and residential activity. Let our department help you navigate the logistics of city requirements and codes, including linking you to the best resources, identifying the best site location and educating you on the available incentives.

A few of the most common areas of assistance for new and growing businesses are addressed below and more information can be found online.

The city of Kirksville Finance Department issues business licenses and regulates the business activities of industries such as: retail, food and liquor establishments, entertainment venues and theaters, service for hire, manufacturing facilities and motor vehicle repair shops.

Apply for a city and/or county business license with the city’s finance department or click here for an application.  

The city of Kirksville has established various zoning regulations that control the location and the operation of all commercial activities including home-based businesses. A brief check with the city’s Codes and Planning Department prior to signing a lease agreement or purchasing commercial property may prove to be valuable.

The City of Kirksville also offers financial assistance and other incentive programs for businesses operating within city limits. A few of the most commonly used programs are:

The Revolving Loan Fund is administered by the City. The funds originated with the Missouri Department of Economic Development (MoDED), and because of this, when the City wishes to use these funds to loan for an economic development project the State must be notified and approve loaning the funds. Additionally, the Kirksville Industrial Development Authority (KIDA) must be notified and approve loaning the funds. Generally, if the parameters set by Council policy are met, the loan is ultimately forgiven. All loans are made at an interest rate 1/3 of prime. There are a limited amount of monies available at this time. 

If you are interested in applying for a Revolving Loan, please contact Ashley W. Young, Assistant City Manager.

The Facade Assistance Program is offered by the City to help downtown businesses restore the facades of their historic buildings. For more info, view the application and requirements here.

The Demolition program is designed to eliminate residential or commercial structures that are in such disrepair that it constitutes a safety concern, and rehabilitation is not a viable option. This program offers most property owners who cannot afford to demolish the structure funds to eliminate that portion, or all of the structure, that is in violation.

View the guidelines and application here.  

Additional bond and tax incentive programs are also available on the city of Kirksville website.