Grant money available for projects that benefit the KP

Rick Sorrels

Seven thousand dollars is now available as grant money for local individuals and businesses (both profit and non-profit) to request and spend on local projects that would benefit the Key Peninsula. But, the money must be spent before Dec. 31.

Pierce County Planning and Land Services Division (PALS) provided the money for distribution by the Key Peninsula Advisory Commission (KPAC), which established application procedures and selection criteria at a special board meeting held on Sept. 26, and approved at the regular board meeting on Oct. 16.

Applications and criteria are available online at co.pierce.wa.us/index.aspx?NID=2086.

Applications must be submitted no later than 7p.m., Wednesday, Nov.13, at the front desk of the Key Center Library.

Applicants will be considered and winners selected at the regular board meeting of the KPAC on Nov. 20. The meeting starts at 6:30 pm at the Key Center Library.

According to documents, there are two main criteria for judging: The project must be something that benefits the Key Peninsula and its residents (the greater number of persons benefited the better), and it should tie-in to an identified component of the Key Peninsula Community Plan. Copies of the plan are available at the Key Center Library for review.

The proposed project must have matching funds available, as the grant will cover only one-half of the project cost. Because of the short deadlines, some leeway may be allowed for project completion.

Questions can be directed to KPAC President, Chuck West at chuck-west@hotmail.com, or by phone, 884-1366.