DSS outlines rental assistance and energy disaster funds tied to hurricane recovery

Agency staff told the board the state allocated a $1,000,000 pool for 25 impacted counties; Rutherford County’s rental assistance allocation is $74,000. Staff said the program’s two‑bedroom HUD-based payment level for Rutherford would be $856 and noted the county has received only limited implementation guidance so far.

Speaker 5 (program lead) described a separate energy disaster funds program the state distributed (about $9 million statewide); the county’s allocation for that program was described to the board at roughly $450,000. Staff said an implementation/training session had occurred and that the county expects to accept applications beginning Jan. 15, with a state review window through March 31; documentation and audit controls will be important because eligibility must be tied to hurricane impacts.

Board members asked about eligibility thresholds and whether applicants should pursue FEMA first; staff said the programs may have different rules and that some allowances could accept client statements for initial eligibility documentation, but full invoicing/quotes will be required for larger payments. The rental assistance program was described as limited in administrative dollars (5% for administration — roughly $3,000 for Rutherford) and staff expressed concern about capacity to administer the funds.

Staff also noted the energy program’s income limit may be relatively higher than typical programs: one presenter said the program used a 60% median income threshold for Rutherford County (mentioned around $45,000) and recollected a county median figure nearer $36,000 for certain household sizes; staff labeled those numbers as approximate and said final eligibility rules remain pending state guidance.

The board asked staff to pursue additional guidance and to try to spend funds locally where possible.