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Commissioners approve MOU with Northern Tier Community Action to apply for FAIR fund housing aid
Summary
The board approved a memorandum of understanding with Northern Tier Community Action and Elk County Planning to apply to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency FAIR fund for an 18‑month housing stabilization program, citing an anticipated $100,000 allocation to provide short‑term rent and utility aid and case management.
The Elk County Board of Commissioners voted Aug. 6 to approve a memorandum of understanding between Elk County, Northern Tier Community Action Corporation and Elk County Planning to pursue funding from the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s FAIR (Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation) fund.
County and Northern Tier representatives described the proposed program as an 18‑month pilot to provide short‑term rent and utility assistance, paired with case management and referral services to help residents avoid eviction or displacement. One presenter said the program would "pay up to a certain amount of money" per household and estimated the county could serve "around 15 to 75" households depending on need. Commissioners discussed income limits tied to area median income and noted some flexibility for cases up to 200% of AMI.
The board voted to approve the MOU and the application process. Staff said the anticipated Elk County allocation for the program is $100,000; program design, eligibility and disbursement details will be finalized between the county planning department and Northern Tier if the funding award is received.
Commissioners and staff emphasized follow‑up case management to connect households to additional services so short‑term assistance becomes sustainable.
