Advisory committee recommends $400,000 funding for community organizations amid budget cuts

In a recent meeting of the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Grant Committee, members discussed the allocation of funds to local organizations, emphasizing the importance of getting financial support into the community. The committee is recommending the full deployment of $400,000 to applicants, despite a proposed overall reduction in funding levels by borough management. This decision reflects a commitment to address community needs amid ongoing economic challenges.

Committee members expressed concerns about the current scoring matrix used to evaluate grant applications. They highlighted the need for a more nuanced approach to assessing organizations' financial reserves and cash balances. The discussion pointed out that relying on a percentage of revenue from cash and investments may not accurately reflect the operational realities of different organizations. The committee aims to ensure that funds are utilized effectively rather than held in reserve, advocating for a system that encourages immediate community impact.

Two motions were passed to be forwarded to the assembly: one to fully fund all applicants as requested and another to reallocate an additional $47,000 within the $400,000 cap. While this reallocation may deviate from existing grant program guidelines, committee members argued that it is a reasonable response to inflationary pressures faced by local organizations.

The meeting concluded with expressions of gratitude towards staff and committee members for their efforts, particularly in overcoming technical difficulties that delayed the session. As the committee wraps up its work for the year, the focus now shifts to the assembly, which will make the final decisions during the budgeting process. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial for supporting local initiatives and addressing community needs in the coming year.