The City of Owensboro announced Tuesday the rollout of OBKY COVID-19 Emergency Relief Programs, which consist of three distinct opportunities that will provide assistance to residents and businesses within City limits.
City Manager Nate Pagan said two of the programs will provide relief for small businesses, while the other will provide rental assistance to those in financial need.
The Small Business Relief Fund will support eligible small businesses — those with 10 or fewer employees — with a $2,500 grant that will not have to be repaid.
“These businesses have to show a negative financial impact from COVID,” Pagan said.
The grant could be used toward rent or mortgage costs, utilities, payroll (excluding the owner’s), inventory or equipment and consultant fees. Items needed to apply include a copy of your lease or tax/mortgage bill, a copy of profit/loss (income) statement for each month your business was adversely impacted and a city business license number. Nonprofit businesses are not eligible.
Pagan said there is currently $300,000 available, meaning 120 small businesses that are eligible for the program could receive assistance.
Meanwhile, all businesses within City limits will be eligible for a sanitation relief program. They will receive a sanitation credit that will cover $18/month for May and June.
Pagan said $18 is the base fee for commercial accounts, adding that the City recognized many businesses are struggling during this time and are therefore producing less garbage.
The City is also providing a Low Income Rental Assistance program for individuals who reside in the City, offering to cover up to three months rent for those who earn less than 80% of the area median income for their household size.
Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are being used for the rental assistance program.
OBKY COVID-19 Emergency Relief Program Guidelines are posted at owensboro.org. Funds will be distributed until depleted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beginning Monday, applications will be accepted via interactive online form; secure drop box at City Hall, 101 E. 4th Street (on Allen Street side of building); or by mailing to P.O. Box 10003, Owensboro, KY 42302-9003.
Program contacts
• Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Grant: [email protected] or 270-687-5600
• Rental Assistance Program: [email protected] or 270-687-8658
• Sanitation Credit: [email protected] or 270-687-8510
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The Owensboro Health coronavirus hotline is available 24/7 by calling 877-888-6647. Call the hotline before seeking in-person care. More information from OH can be found here.
For the latest information and data on COVID-19 in Kentucky visit kycovid19.ky.gov or dial the Kentucky state hotline at 800-722-5725.
For the latest health guidelines and resources from the CDC, visit their website here.
