CHAMBERSBURG—Many small businesses across Franklin County could soon see some financial relief thanks to COVID Relief grants.
On Wednesday, Franklin County Commissioners approved the release of $5.6 million in Small Business Recovery funds to 155 local businesses.
The SBRG program was created to provide funding to eligible county small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The money comes to the county through Act 24 legislation, which released $625 million in CARES Act funding relating to COVID-19.
The program is administered by the Franklin County Area Development Corporation and reviewed by county officials.
The application process closed in August and included multiple layers of information from businesses. There were 187 applications received by the FCADC, with 177 sent to the county for review.
“We had to make sure expenses applied for were actually eligible,” said County Administrator Carrie Gray.
Gray said from the time applications were presented, state and federal guidelines had changed and her staff had to update the review criteria. “We wanted to make sure we’re not putting the taxpayers at risk of having to pay it back,” she explained.
She said 22 were ineligible, leaving 155 businesses recommended for funding. Grants—which do not need to be paid back—range from $1,266 to $72,500.
The board unanimously approved the grants. Information on the recipients can be found at https://franklincountypa.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/2ded06c24dd943e9ab2d12bbd279e64e.
“I know there is a great need in the community,” said Commissioner Dave Keller.
“This is much needed,” agreed Commissioner John Flannery.
Gray said agreements will be sent out to businesses this week and if returned by Friday, checks can be cut by Nov. 3.
