By Stephen Smoot
Last week, Region 8 Planning and Development Council conducted its regular monthly meeting. It opened with a recap on communications received by the office over the preceding month.
Most of the communications announced grant funding opportunities from state and federal funding sources. The list opened with a request for proposals for the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s Water Quality Management Planning Projects grant. Next came the announcement of the funding availability of Section 5310 transportation grant programs, which are meant to serve seniors and those with disabilities.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency also has funding opportunities for both fire department staffing and fire prevention and safety programs.
Council members also noted that April is Fair Housing Month. Region 8 notified recipients of Community Development Block Grants of their obligation to pass or reaffirm Fair Housing resolutions as is required under law.
Those seeking funding for projects of all types heard good news from Keith McIntosh, state projects director for the office of United States Senator Joe Manchin. He shared that the deadline for applications for Congressionally Directed Spending funds was extended until April 9. “We’ve got a little bit more time for potential applicants to look at projects or submit another one,” McIntosh stated, adding for the benefit of those present that “there’s good things happening. If you need anything, give me a shout.”
