Matteson, IL –(ENEWSPF)—August 22, 2018
By: Mary Paleologos
Today, U.S. Congresswoman Robin Kelly and Senator Tammy Duckworth jointly hosted a grants workshop to inform local municipal leaders about a wide range of government funding opportunities available for local projects.
More than 60 mayors and managers from the South Suburbs had the opportunity to meet with officials from seven federal, state and local government agencies.
“Having worked at the local level of government, I fully understand that our local leaders face immense funding challenges when it comes to maintaining local infrastructure, retaining a public safety workforce and meeting residents’ growing and changing needs,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “A principal part of my job is to connect local leaders with existing resources, so their communities can continue to operate safely and smoothly. This workshop, with Senator Duckworth, is an important step toward financing local projects and improving community services.”
“I’m proud that my staff was able to join Representative Kelly in helping bring federal agencies and municipalities together at today’s workshop,” said U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth. “We need to make it easier for municipalities to access federal grants that support critical infrastructure projects, disaster relief efforts and other investments. I will continue working to help ensure local governments have the tools they need to operate efficiently and provide a better quality of life for all Illinoisans.”
“Today’s workshop was truly helpful. It’s no secret that local communities and governments face any number of challenges. Thankfully, we have strong federal partners and representatives who are fighting for us and our communities,” said Vernard Alsberry, mayor of the Village of Hazel Crest and president of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association.
During the workshop, representatives from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority discussed U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) grants available for local police and first responders; the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) alerted municipal leaders of transportation and infrastructure funding; representatives from Army Corps of Engineers outlined programs for flood abatement, while the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) discussed programs dealing with housing and building the economy. A representative from the U.S. Department of Agriculture was also on hand to discuss assistance programs available to smaller communities.
Source: www.robinkelly.house.gov
