For our community service organization that works hard on behalf of many jurisdictions around the County, this week’s news from the California Housing and Community Development Department was met with enthusiastic ‘high fives’. Three Siskiyou County cities have been awarded nearly $2.7 million in California Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding as a result of applications submitted by our GNC team on their behalf.
Projects range from infrastructure improvements and public services to economic development and business support. Jefferson Economic Development Institute (JEDI) also secured CDBG business technical assistance funding on behalf of the city of Mt. Shasta to boost that total figure to nearly $3 million for the county.
Weed
The City of Weed’s successful grant application means $1.5 million in funding to replace the severely deteriorated BelAir 400,000 gallon water tank and include construction of a new water supply well to serve the City. The new tank will increase capacity to 450,000 gallons and the new well will solve critical health and safety issues regarding potable water and essential fire protection measures by adding a second water source. “We are so pleased to know that funding will be available to move forward on this water project”, says Craig Sharp, Public Works Director for the City of Weed. “Patience and doing the necessary homework has finally paid off”.
Montague
The City of Montague will be replacing some sewer mains where they expect to reduce the infiltration and inflow of ground water into the sewer system by approximately 10% to 15%. Additionally, funding is secured for new construction of an ADA public restroom including sidewalk and parking spot at the Montague Airport. Thirdly, the City has funding for a Planning and Technical Assistance grant that begins with collection and evaluation of data for the engineer to determine the wastewater treatment capacity of the existing lagoon system based on current needs and projected growth. The disposal capacity of the existing land application system will also be addressed. The Engineer then uses this data collection to draw up a conceptual design for expansion of the treatment facility.
Mt. Shasta
Mt. Shasta secured funding for some new programs and will continue with business support. “We are excited to have developed some fundable solutions to concerns of the Mt. Shasta community”, says Crystal Aston of GNC. City Manager, Paul Eckert noted “CDBG funding is highly competitive and this cycle was a real win for Mt. Shasta – thanks to our staff, GNC and JEDI.”
The Fresh Produce Food Bank is a first time effort to make fresh vegetables and fruit available to a targeted income population. When seasonally available, locally grown produce will be distributed through this program. Those receiving food assistance will complete a self-certification form to determine eligibility. Particular care will target distribution locations and times that are easily accessible to seniors and to working families or those with limited transportation.
The Security Deposit Program is a new program that provides assistance to low/mod income households when changing tenancy. Often they are able to afford the monthly rent, but struggle to come up with a required security deposit. Before receiving assistance, the applicant will be qualified according to the Income Calculation and Determination Handbook for Federal Programs.
The goal of the Senior Snow Removal Service is to reduce the number of injuries sustained by the senior population living within the city limits of Mt. Shasta. This service additionally alleviates the financial hardship experienced by our most vulnerable population living on fixed incomes who must hire the services of others for their snow removal needs. The program would provide for private driveway and walkway snow removal by a licensed and insured contractor through a competitive procurement process. The senior population is particularly at risk for becoming housebound during severe storms, thus cutting them off from access to medical appointments, food, emergency ingress/egress, heating and vehicle fuel, medications and congregate meals as well as other essential resources.
Economic Development programs will continue to provide affordable, non-conventional financing to eligible businesses and development projects for working capital, equipment, furniture & fixtures. Eligible loan applicants for this activity can be new or existing businesses.
For more information about the CDBG awards, contact the Cities directly or GNC at 530-938-4115 ext 142.