“The Community Development Block Grant Program is a federal grant program designed to assist local governments to provide benefits to a low or moderate income residence,” said City Planner Lynn Causey.
Causey said that the grant could award up to $500,000 in funding. A city match would not be required, but officials said that any city showing personal involvement would have their application looked at more favorably.
“We honestly believe there is a problem in that area and we want to correct that,” said Jacksonville Mayor Johnny Smith. “A lot of the old pipes in the ground is deteriorating and we are having infiltration problems in that area.”
Smith said that the grant fits in with the area and the council’s plan to fix more area pipes.
Causey said she would present a formal resolution for the CDBG grant at the next city council meeting.
Councilman Truman Norred also discussed a potential grant the Tree Committee may seek. The Gateway Grant, which is sponsored by Alabama Power and the Alabama Urban Forestry Association, gives selected applicants $4,000 to beautify the city’s entrance.
Norred said the Tree Committee talked about applying for the grant to plant trees in front of the water treatment plant in order to cover some of the filtration systems. A resolution for the city to officially apply for the grant will be voted on at a future meeting.
The council also voted to place sample ballots for the Aug. 24th Municipal Election at City Hall, the Police Department, the Public Library and the Jacksonville Community Center beginning July 23. The election consists of two positions for the Board of Education. Smith said although interest has been shown, no one has signed up yet. He encouraged anyone interested to stop by City Hall before July 20th.
Before adjourning, council members praised the Farmers Market and those who help run the event on Saturdays. Councilman Derek Raulerson said that he has heard some Square store owners ask for parking for their employees and asked citizens to park at city hall or nearby to give store workers enough parking spots.
In other action, the council:
• Approved adding stop signs at the NE and SW intersections of Eighth Street, NE and Ninth Avenue, NE as recommended by the Staff Committee.
• Approved the FY2011 Retired Senior Volunteer Program Grant Application for Federal Assistance, with the City’s portion totaling $19,000.00, and authorize the Mayor to sign any necessary documents.
• Approved the temporary appointment of Lt. Keith Kadle, as Acting Assistant Fire Chief.
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