Cape Girardeau, county join to apply for housing grants

Cape Girardeau County and the city of Cape Girardeau will work together to apply for federal grants that provide housing assistance to the homeless.

Commissioners approved a motion to collaborate with the city on the application for and administration of Emergency Solution Grant Program funds, which could reach up to $300,000 in the coming year if the governments receive the full amounts available through the program.

The funds, according to the Missouri Department of Social Services, are administered to local governments through the department and the Missouri Housing Development Commission and provide for the operation and renovation of emergency homeless shelters and street outreach activities to assist homeless individuals and families in obtaining and retaining permanent housing.

Grants are also covering the cost of homeless prevention services and rapid rehousing activities this year. Local agencies, such as the Salvation Army and Safe House for Women, provide the services and are required to contribute matching funds when grant money is received.

The program was formerly called the Emergency Shelter Grant.

Presiding Commissioner Clint Tracy wrote in a letter to the MHDC that past grants received by the county have greatly benefited its residents. Per an agreement between city and county officials, a comprehensive application for grant funds will be submitted and the city will administer the grant funds.

Other action

* Approved a motion to fill the bad check administrator/restitution manager position in the prosecuting attorney's office at an annual salary of $24,000.

* Approved a motion to purchase computer file backup software for $4,496.59

* County Clerk Kara Clark Summers announced officeholders held an election for a representative to the Missouri Association of Counties. Treasurer Roger Hudson was elected as representative.

eragan@semissourian.com

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