Distribution of nearly $400,000 in financial assistance for
small businesses and non-profit organizations reeling from the economic impact
of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic began this week. Potter County
Commissioners Nancy Grupp, Barry Hayman and Paul Heimel chose to offer the
grant program using federal funds awarded to the county through the federal
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Community
Development Director Ellen Russell, Chief Clerk Jessica Giebel and Planning/GIS
Director Will Hunt assisted the commissioners with the distribution. After an
exhaustive review of federal and state guidelines and restrictions on use of
the funds, Russell said the team was able to achieve its primary goal. “All
Potter County businesses that were deemed eligible based on criteria provided
by the Pa. Dept. of Community and Economic Development received funds to help
make them whole, up to the cap of $25,000,” she reported.
Primary purpose of the program was to provide immediate
relief so that qualifying small businesses and non-profit organizations could
retain employees, continue operations, and remain sustainable. The
commissioners recognized the need to inject the money into the local economy as
quickly as possible, so they fast-tracked the application process. Specifics on
the grant program can be found on the county website, pottercountypa.net,
clicking on “Help for Small Businesses” in the upper right corner.
