Jeannette will hear testimony on use of CDBG grant funds
It appears both sides may get their way in Jeannette’s debate over whether to help businesses with grants through government funding related to the coronavirus pandemic.
A public hearing is planned at 1 p.m. March 21 at city hall to hear testimony about creating a pot of money for businesses with $110,000 in 2020 Community Development Block Grant supplemental funding, said chief fiscal officer Ethan Keedy.
“The money hasn’t been utilized,” he said. “We’re now going to reallocate all that for grants for businesses.”
Municipalities got supplemental CDBG funding designated for coronavirus pandemic response. So far, Jeannette officials have been unsuccessful in attempts to use it, Keedy said. The money needs to be spent by the end of the year.
Council has been at odds for months trying to decide how to spend its $900,000 in American Rescue Plan allocation, which is a different funding source than the CDBG money. There have been many suggestions, ranging from infrastructure projects to small grants for businesses.
About $267,000 already has been earmarked for bonuses for employees, a manhole repair and radio upgrades for the fire department.
A public meeting is set for 1 p.m. March 22 to lay out a plan for the rest of the ARP money. Council also could address the proposed CDBG reallocation at that time.
The ARP money, part of a $1.9 trillion federal stimulus package approved last year, must be spent by the end of 2024.
Councilwoman Robin Mozley has been pushing to use the money for business grants but was happy to know an alternate source was available in the CDBG funds.
“It’s going to be set up like any other grant,” she said. “There’ll be a set of criteria with Ethan Keedy overseeing it.”
Mayor Curtis Antoniak has been in favor of using the ARP money for infrastructure projects but also was pleased another opportunity was available for businesses. Councilman Chuck Highlands said the grant amounts should be “limited so more people can be involved.”
Businesses have been pleading with council to consider their needs as the debate continues.
Renatta Signorini is a TribLive reporter covering breaking news, crime, courts and Jeannette. She has been working at the Trib since 2005. She can be reached at rsignorini@triblive.com.
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