The City of Soldotna has opened applications to Phase II of their initiatives to offer relief to those impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency. On Friday, the City officially announced details about three programs that aim offer aid.
Soldotna Housing Relief: The City of Soldotna has partnered with the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation to provide rent and mortgage relief for Soldotna residents from September through December 2020. The Soldotna Housing Relief program will provide up to $1,200 each month to eligible households in the City of Soldotna that have suffered economic hardship due to COVID-19. The program is available for applicants residing in Soldotna city limits whose post-COVID household income is at or below $71,760, or 80% of the median area income. Households that have already applied and qualified for AHFC’s Alaska Housing Relief program will be contacted to verify continued eligibility.
Soldotna residents who did not apply for relief from the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation in June can complete a simple online application at www.SoldotnaHousingRelief.org.
Utility Hardship Relief Program: Soldotna residents who have suffered economic hardship due to COVID-19 can apply to waive residential City water and sewer fees for the months of September through December 2020. Eligible applicants will receive an automatic credit to their City water and/or sewer account to cover the cost of the utility for the months requested.
Applications are available now and will be accepted through December 4, however applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Virtual Storefront Improvement Program: Since 2012, the City of Soldotna has offered Storefront Improvement grants to provide matching funds for exterior business remodels in Soldotna. In an effort to assist local businesses affected by COVID-19, the City has added a Virtual Storefront Improvement Program that will assist local business owners to establish or expand their web presence to better market themselves online during the pandemic. The City will contribute up to $2,500 for the development of a new website, or improved functionality of an existing website.
Applications are available now, with more information being found at Soldotna.org/CARES. The applications will be accepted until Friday, October 30. All projects must be complete by December 30.
More information about Phase II of small business grants and funding for nonprofits will be available in the coming weeks.