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Commissioners approve grants for four projects
(by Joseph Koziol Jr. - June 21, 2012)
Commissioners approve grants for four projects
by JOSEPH KOZIOL JR.
A new bariatric ambulance, a walk-inn bath tub at the county home and upgraded bathrooms are among the items that will be funded through community development block grants.
Geauga County Commissioners picked four projects from 10 requests to fund through the CDBG program, federally provided dollars through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Commissioners, who were asked to divide $176,000, announced last week those who will be receiving funding.
Commissioners said yes to Maple Leaf Community Residence, which asked for funding for seven generators to complete the outfitting of their 17 homes with the devices. The non-profit organization serves the developmentally disabled. Cost for seven generators is $41,300.
The Burton Fire Department also was successful in its request for $20,000 to outfit an ambulance to serve bariatric patients. Fire officials said the equipment is needed because of the growing problem of obesity in the United States and the county. The ambulance, fire officials said, will serve the entire county.
Commissioner Mary Samide said very few area departments are equipped with the specialty equipment and Burton's coverage area is larger than many departments.
The county-run Pleasant County Home in Claridon Township was awarded $10,700 to improve one bathroom, including a walk-in tub. The home's operators had asked for $111,500 to upgrade three bathrooms.
County Administrator David Lair said the walk-in tub is a benefit to residents and staff there and may alleviate some workers' compensation claims.
Commissioners also awarded $85,600 to Huntsburg Township for upgrades to its community center. Huntsburg officials plan to install a ramp at the entrance and upgrades to bathrooms to comply with Americans with Disability regulations.
Mrs. Samide said all project requests were worthy, but commissioners were operating with limited funds. "I just wish we could have done six like we've normally done," she said.
Funding for the program has been declining for the past several years.
Several communities and organizations will have to look elsewhere for funding for their projects.
The city of Chardon had hoped to receive $11,463 for a lift at its city swimming pool.
DDC Clinics, which provides services to families of children with rare genetic disorders, wanted $50,374 to upgrade and expand its parking lot in Middlefield. Funding also was sought for additional services.
The Berkshire School District sought $44,500 to upgrade its administration building at the Geauga County Fairgrounds with a ramp, striping of a parking lot and bathroom upgrades.
Geauga Habitat for Humanity was asking for $89,200 to build a 1,200-square-foot home in Chagrin Falls Park.
Burton Village hoped to receive $90,125 for upgrades in access and bathrooms at its log cabin on Burton Square.
Vron Place, a non-profit organization that serves those with mental health diagnosis, requested $51,125 for waterproofing, window upgrades and a new porch roof at its home in Burton Township.
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