Below is a collection of stories that Greater Ohio has been able to compile with information about how local governments are spending the final round of funds that have been approved under the federal CARES Act. State and local entities have until the end of December to appropriate and expend this final round of funds, unless a lame-duck U.S. Congress extends the deadline.
SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMS
In Richland County, the City of Mansfield and Richland County Commissioners pooled their CARES dollars and created a $500,000 grant program for small businesses.
The Village of Johnstown has made available $75,000 for community organizations and businesses to assist with expenses and operations during this time.
In Union County, Commissioner Christiane Schmenk said in her county, money has gone to rental assistance, food assistance and small business support, as well as to the independent health department.
"At the end of the day, it's about keeping the lights on for folks, keeping their houses warm over the winter and keeping food on the table. We're going to make sure that happens," she said.
The Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce, the City of Chillicothe and Ross County are have announced a local COVID-19 relief fund for small businesses and eligible non-profit organizations in Ross County. The city and county will each designate a portion of their federal CARES Act money to help small business recoup their costs. The funds can also assist businesses seeking modifications to help increase customer capacity, serve new customers, or other forward-looking ideas to grow business in the future. The Chamber will facilitate the grants, including setting up and administering the application process through a committee that will review requests for potential payments. The process which is managed through an online application, is open now. Chamber membership is not a prerequisite.
Licking County is using funding to support small businesses, including day cares. Money is also being used to create a grant program for nonprofits that have struggled due to the lack of public events.
WIFI & COMPUTERS FOR KIDS
In Zanesville, community leaders focused their CARES dollars on children and their at-risk population. This included $200,000 to purchase Chromebooks and WiFi access, and additional PPE and nutritional assistance to community centers; $150,000 was given to social service organizations to provide emergency rent relief, mortgage assistance, and nutritional and mental health needs.
WATER & UTILITIES SHUT-OFF PREVENTION
The Ross County Commissioners have pledged $250,000 from the county's share to go toward preventing utility shutoffs. While the Ohio EPA has revoked its moratorium on water shut-offs and resume allowing water companies to disconnect delinquent customers, the city has not. Community members who are behind on their utilities can contact Ross County Community Action and receive money toward their bill.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT IMPROVEMENTS
In Fairfield County, money has helped allow county staff to work from home and supported the sheriff's office. The county is "not really looking for any more money from the federal government county government, but hopes more aid will go to small businesses such as restaurants.