Jackson County Commission eligible to receive federal Coronavirus funding

SCOTTSBORO Ala. (WAFF) - Federal funding could help Jackson County provide a boost for local businesses and other organizations impacted by the pandemic.

Many people have been impacted by the pandemic, and some businesses have had to close.

The Jackson County Commission is eligible to receive $500,000 in funding through the Alabama Department of Economic Affairs.

Sara James announced the news at Monday’s commission meeting. She is is the Economic Development & Planning Director for Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments.

She said small businesses would be big recipients of this assistance.

“Particularly Jackson County is looking to spend this money on a small business assistance grant program and then also with some technology improvements from their volunteer fire departments. They have a radio system they are looking to improve,” said James.

James said money would also be used to address food insecurity issues.

Commissioner Jason Venable said he is appreciative for the work being done to help those who have faced hardships.

“I know there are small businesses all across the county that have struggle with this COVID and those businesses are not only vital to the people employed at them, but they bring in a lot of revenue and sales tax and we want to make sure we keep their doors open,” said Venable.

The Jackson County Commission will have to submit a resolution for the funding at the next meeting on March 22 and apply by April 1st.

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