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County grant writer outlines options to replace courthouse HVAC; CDBG match and HEAL eligibility discussed
Summary
County Grant Writer Gus Brunetti told the Crawford County commissioners May 19 that replacing the courthouse heating and air system may be eligible for a Community Facility Small Grant or an Economic Development CDBG — the latter would require a 50% local match and a preapplication tying the work to downtown economic viability; Brunetti said he will research options and return with more information.
County Grant Writer Gus Brunetti briefed the Crawford County commissioners May 19 on funding options to replace the courthouse heating and air system and provided guidance on which grants the county might pursue.
Brunetti identified the Community Facility Small Grant as one option the county could consider and said some CDBG programs have eligibility criteria the county does not meet. He explained an Economic Development CDBG may be available but typically requires a 50 percent local match and a preapplication demonstrating that the HVAC repairs would improve the economic viability of downtown Girard. Brunetti noted the Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) Grant is usually awarded to private property owners in dire need of repair and is not often used for county‑owned projects.
Commissioner Carl Wood asked how similar buildings obtain low‑interest loans and pressed on whether the county could apply for two grants; Brunetti answered and provided examples of options and next steps. Commissioner Bruce Blair recommended Brunetti contact Carey Spoon at the Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission about potential grant opportunities; Brunetti said he has worked with Spoon on prior projects and will reach out again.
Brunetti also said he had not yet received further information from FEMA regarding storm sirens and that, to his knowledge, FEMA remained understaffed on that matter; he said he would follow up and present additional information at a future meeting.
The commissioners did not take formal action on the HVAC work at the meeting; Brunetti was asked to gather additional details and return with recommendations and documentation on grant eligibility and match requirements.
