OTTAWA – The second round of Paycheck Protection Program grants are now available to first time and returning borrowers. According to the North Central Illinois Council of Governments, applications are open until March 31st. In an update to the rules, funds may now be used for operating expenses in addition to payroll, mortgage payments, rent and utilities. For those who participated the first time, to be eligible for the second round returning borrowers must show a drop of at least 25% in sales from the previous year. Local Weather