Sandusky makes money available for for rent, mortage payments

SANDUSKY — Realizing the difficulties many locals face to pay rent or a mortgage, Sandusky officials shuffled some money around with a goal of helping residents stay in their homes. During a recent public meeting, Sandusky officials agreed to transfer $150,000 in federal grant dollars to help locals with rental and mortgage assistance. Officials redirected the money originally intended to assist small businesses. Nicole Grohe, the city's community development program administrator, offered an explanation: • Why did this occur: "The Community Development Block Grant (federal) funds were originally allocated to provide small businesses assistance in 2020. During this time, early in the pandemic, there were limited opportunities for businesses to receive help. The city dedicated $165,000 to eighty small businesses through the economic development fund program. As time passed, more options arose for small businesses through state and federal relief programs while little opportunity to assist residents surfaced." • Why is this important: "The city wanted to provide a rental and mortgage assistance program as it felt that the residents of the city could use some relief from COVID-19. In the past, there have been opportunities for small businesses while direct relief for residents was limited." • How can these funds be spent: "The funds must be spent to prevent, prepare or respond to COVID-19. As such, city residents may seek up to three months of rental or mortgage subsistence payments if they can show they are facing a hardship stemming from COVID-19." • How can people apply for funds: "The city will be contracting with the Community Action Commission of Erie, Huron & Richland Counties Inc., which is already administering a similar program on the county level. The (commission) will receive $15,000 for (its) administration of the program, and the remaining $135,000 will go directly to rental and mortgage payments. This program would only be for city residents and will be structured as first come, first serve." • How many could benefit? "It is hopeful that 100 to 150 people will be served by this program." • When can people apply? "Eligible residents will be able to apply for this assistance in the spring." • Why is this important? "It is important that these funds be used to assist those who are impacted by COVID-19. These funds could assist residents from facing eviction or losing their homes."