City of Belfast Applying for 3 Federal Grants
Media
BELFAST - The city of Belfast is currently in the process of applying for 3 federal grants that would bring in nearly 1,000,000 dollars.
$900,000.00. That's how much money this coastal community could see if it receives approval for 3 federal grants.
Thomas Kittredge, the economic development director for Belfast says, "One of those is for a $250,000 dollars to benefit Mathew's Brothers, a window manufacturer; 500,000 dollars to benefit Maine Maritime products. The other 150,000 dollars is what is called a micro-enterprise assistance grant. They would sub-grant out or loan out smaller grants to micro businesses."
And its the micro enterprise assistance grant that has store owners on Main Street opening their doors.
"If we can do anything in our power to help the store owners downtown create more activity up and down the streets, i'm going to jump on it big time." Says Belfast Mayor Walter Ash.
One of those stores, Bella Books, whose owners still cringe at the word recession. Now celebrating the idea they could see a new chapter in their business.
"Oh my god, it would be a tremendous shot in the arm for us. Not only would we be able to expand out two stores, but we are able to put in additional enhancements and possible even hiring employees." Says Bella Books Co-Owner, Gary Guida.
City officials are hoping business owners will use this opportunity to expand. If Belfast does receive these grants, business owners would be able to start using them as early as July 1st.
Andrew Scheinthal
Weekend Anchor/Reporter
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Andrew joined the WVII ABC 7 and WFVX FOX Bangor News team in June of 2012. Raised in Houston, Texas, Andrew graduated from Suffolk University located in Boston, Massachusetts where he majored in Communications. From July 2011 to December 2011, Andrew was a student reporter for New England Cable News (NECN) and would take part in a live shot every Thursday for The Morning Show, covering topics from the financial crisis to the New England Patriots.
