$20 million in CARES Act money for Flagler individuals, businesses available soon

'We are smoothing out the kinks right now so that we will have a quick, streamlined system,' official says.


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  • | 3:50 p.m. July 15, 2020
Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom from Pexels
Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom from Pexels
  • Palm Coast Observer
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Flagler County officials are readying the process for distribution of $20 million CARES Act money to individuals, businesses, and governmental entities but are asking everyone to remain patient until the processes are finalized.

“We have had this money a very short time period — about a week — and staff has done a great job getting things ready to launch,” said County Administrator Jerry Cameron. “We are going to get this money distributed as quickly as possible.”

Last month the Board of County Commissioners approved the allocation of the initial $5 million of Federal Coronavirus Relief Funds, and at its regular meeting on Monday approved the $15 million fund distribution — pending finalization of the process by the state.

“We know how incredibly frustrating it is to be asked to wait when you have been under dire circumstances for months because of COVID-19,” said Health and Human Services Director Joyce Bishop. “We are delighted we have the money now, and will be able to get it out shortly. We are smoothing out the kinks right now so that we will have a quick, streamlined system when we are ready to take applications.”

In total, Flagler County expects to be allocated $20 million, which will be used as follows:

  • $5 million for local government expenses, including municipalities and constitutional officers
  • $10 million for Business Grant Program
  • $5 million for Individual Financial Assistance

These funds may be used for a variety of COVID-19 related government expenses, as well as assistance programs for residents and business negatively fiscally impacted by COVID-19. Flagler County will distribute the funds as outlined in guidance provided the U.S. Department of Treasury and the State of Florida.

“We have been working with our local government partners to develop these programs,” said Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. “We have to ensure it is fair, and works as it is intended.”

Additional information will be released about the application process as soon as it becomes available.

 

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