   
Block-grant windfall to help local agencies
By BECKY HARRIS
Log Cabin Staff Writer
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 When the word got out that Conway was going to receive $130,000 more than expected in 2003 Community Development Block Grants, there was rejoicing.
The initial grant was for $367,000, but because Conway's population increased, the grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development also increased.
A few representatives of nonprofit agencies attended a public hearing Wednesday afternoon to hear how the remainder of that extra money will be spent, pending approval by the City Council.
As announced earlier, $50,000 will be given to Interstate Group, manufacturers of cargo trailers for infrastructure improvements at their site. The company will hire employees from low-income groups, said Lynn Keith, director of the Community Development Block Grants.
Other allocations discussed Wednesday included:
United Way of Faulkner County, $43,500 for infrastructure at the location of the future Conway Interfaith Clinic, which will provide medical and dental services for the working insured on a sliding scale.
Faulkner County Day School, $8,000 to go toward replacing a roof at the Milestone Preschool Building.
Independent Living Services, $1,000 to provide accessible housing for disabled people transitioning from institutions.
Community Action Program for Central Arkansas, $8,000 to update playground to American Disabilities Association standards at the HeadStart Center.
Bethlehem House, $14,500 operating costs and salary for a case manager.
Pine Street Free Clinic Inc., $5,000 to provide free medications and lab work for Conway uninsured indigents.
Applicants have 30 days to respond in writing to the decision of the advisory board.
The City Council will consider the allocations at its Aug. 12 meeting.
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