“We are working as quickly as possible to get these vital funds to local taxing bodies, farmers, business owners and others who desperately need relief after the economic pain that occurred due to COVID- 19,” said Will County Board member Ken Harris (D-Bolingbrook).
Ken Harris serves as chair of the CARES Funding Committee and says that they are examining the rules for how the money must be allocated. “We need to get this money out into the community as soon as possible,” said Harris. “Part of that challenge is navigating the requirements of where and how the funds can be used.”
Harris said that a substantial portion of the funds will be directed to local taxing bodies which provide vital services to residents and have been impacted by COVID-19. Small businesses and farmers will also receive a large portion of the funding followed by housing and food relief, not-for-profits and other miscellaneous categories.
The board is expected to appropriate the funds at their June county board meeting. They will also select a vendor to help navigate requirements and expedite the flow of funds to the community.
“The committee and the board are working diligently to get these funds out,” said Minority Leader and Vice Chair of the ad-hoc committee Mike Fricilone (R-Homer Glen). “The people need this relief.”