County received over $19.3 million.
Posted: Dec 18, 2020 12:29 PM
Posted By: Mike Bunge
ROCHESTER, Minn. – How has Olmsted County spent the over $19.3 million in federal COVID relief funds it received in 2020?
“The COVID-19 pandemic forced hardships on many people in our Olmsted County cities and townships,” said Olmsted County Administrator Heidi Welsch. “Olmsted County used federal CARES funds prudently to provide COVID assistance and help improve quality of life during a very challenging time.”
The county on Friday released a list of examples of where the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds went. Included on the list:
COVID-19 related needs for the vulnerable - $2 million for things like food, transportation, shelter, and mental health care.
County commissioners will set priorities for distributing aid to ailing businesses. 3:55 pm, Dec. 15, 2020 ×
Olmsted County logo
Olmsted County is expecting to receive nearly $3.1 million in state funds for grants to businesses suffering as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The funds are a portion of $114.8 million being sent to counties as part of a $242 million relief package approved by the Minnesota Legislature this week.
“It’s kind of to serve as a safety-net program to make sure that there are no businesses that fall through the cracks,” said Jennifer Berquam, the county’s legislative analyst.
The state effort also provides $88 million in direct relief for bars and restaurants, bowling alleys and recreational facilities that have seen a 30% drop in sales compared to 2019. Qualified businesses are expected to receive payments of $10,000 to $45,000, based on employee numbers.