County of Lake awards $1.3 million to small businesses

$1.3 million in grants were issued to eligible small businesses through the Lake County CARES Small Business Assistance Grant Program. The County of Lake partnered with Lake County Economic Development Corporation to provide much needed financial relief to businesses at a key juncture of COVID-19 pandemic response.

“Local businesses are the backbone of our community,” emphasized District 2 Supervisor and County CARES Act Ad Hoc Committee member, Bruno Sabatier. “They offer so much to our communities; employment, support for programs and activities — many of the things we need to find comfort in our lives. COVID-19 has had a great impact on their financial stability, and we need to do what we can to provide the respite they need in these troubling times.”

COVID-19 has severely affected the hospitality industry: “The Hotel was closed for three months in the spring,” said Bernie Butcher of the Tallman Hotel and Blue Wing Restaurant. “This grant from the Lake County Board of Supervisors will be extremely helpful in allowing us to retain staff and expand our services.”

“This grant is everything,” exclaimed Derick Fiske, owner of Middletown’s Perry’s Deli, another grant recipient.

“It has helped keep our dream of running a small business in our hometown alive. We couldn’t be more proud to be part of Lake County. Thank you!”

Lake County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) shared the County’s vision to bring relief to a broad set of pandemic-affected businesses, and administered the program with support from Economic Development and Finance Corporation of Ukiah (https:// www.edfc.org/).

“This grant program has helped bridge a funding gap for many small businesses,” said LCEDC President, Stephanie Ashworth. “However, the work is not done, and we all have a part to play. Continue to support your neighborhood businesses, by using local pick-up services and home delivery. Shop local even when you shop online, and continue to visit Lake County businesses that can safely provide in-person services.”

“The Small Business Assistance Grant Program brought a breath of fresh air, and we must continue to find ways to help businesses endure the pandemic,” affirmed Sabatier. Keeping our communities safe and supporting Lake County’s business community are among our Board’s top priorities.”

More resources for Small Businesses and a link to sign up for alerts regarding the State’s upcoming $500 million Small Business Relief Grant opportunity can be found at: https://business. ca.gov/coronavirus-2019/