[r63] Rep. Messmer congratulates Jasper on receiving more than $500,000 grant

STATEHOUSE - Today a community in State Rep. Mark Messmer's (R-Jasper) district, the City of Jasper, was awarded $535,565 by Lt. Governor Becky Skillman for a wastewater project through the Community Focus Fund.

"I am pleased that the City of Jasper will be able to move forward with this project," said Rep. Messmer. "Many of our communities have suffered during this recession, but it is important that we find ways to continue progressing. These funds will be a great help to our community."

The Community Focus Fund (CFF) is funded with federal Community Development Block Grant dollars from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The goal of the CFF program is to encourage communities with eligible populations to focus on long-term community development.

The funds help rural communities with a variety of projects, such as sewer and water systems, community centers, health and safety programs and many others. The overall goal of these funds is to help communities improve the quality of life and to ensure the health and safety of their citizens.

To qualify, a community leader can apply to receive funds based on the following criteria:

• The area has a substantial low and moderate-income population (51 percent or greater)
• The project addresses the long-term planning and development efforts for the community
• Funds granted will have a significant impact on the proposed project
• The project is ready to proceed and will be completed within 18 months after being awarded

For more information, log onto www.in.gov/ocra/.

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