The Night Owl, an iconic diner structure in the Flint section, prompted significant discussion and public interest during the CPC meeting. Committee members expressed broad support for saving the structure and suggested narrowly tailored CPC assistance.

Members described the project as culturally important to the neighborhood and discussed a variety of funding approaches. Several speakers suggested the committee provide limited funds to secure a deed restriction that would keep the diner on its current site and prevent sale or relocation of the historic asset. Committee members proposed minimal, targeted funding to cover immediate barriers to operation (for example, accessibility improvements such as a ramp or an accessible restroom) rather than underwriting full renovation costs up front.

Staff and members noted some ambiguity in the application’s “other funds” line: the packet lists roughly $357,800 as “other funds” for the project, but members said the application did not attach committed financing documents. Members recommended the applicant supply bank or commitment letters showing construction or operating financing before a large award, or else demonstrate that the business can be opened and occupied (which would make later historic restoration requests lower‑risk).

The committee also discussed restricting any award by deed so that the diner and its historic features remain in Fall River. Members suggested making payments conditional on the business being operational and on CPC liaison sign‑offs of milestone work. No award motion was taken; staff were asked to request financing documentation and to explore minimal deed‑restriction language if the owner is willing.