The Community Foundation of Pulaski County continues to move its Aspirations in Action program forward.
The Broadband Council and Task Force have been actively engaged with multiple internet service providers and anticipate a new state grant opportunity in April. Pulaski County government has demonstrated recognition of the critical need for a broadband network with high-speed internet for residents and economic growth.
They approved American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to hire a qualified engineering firm to develop a county-wide broadband plan as a road map for deployment and to prioritize areas most in need of service.
Following an Employer Assisted Housing Webinar last November, the Housing Resource Hub has been working with local communities to help them understand how local governments can support workforce housing expansion through community sponsored development projects. Earlier this year, the Pulaski County Housing Task Force convened to discuss ways to encourage private sector involvement in building both a housing development pipeline and home buyer pipeline.
A Request for Information is under development to invite local builders and developers to request support with stalled housing development projects on land they own, as well as local governments seeking support with adding new housing on land they either own or think can be purchased for a reasonable price.
Local banks and lenders will be invited to offer their grants and affordable loan products on the Hub’s proprietary wealth building platform, Club 720.
In Downtown Development efforts, the Main Street Winamac (MSW) organization has been building a strong organizational foundation including establishment of mission, a core board of directors, bylaws, logo and incorporation. It is seeking IRS charitable tax-exempt status and is engaged in discussion with the Town of Winamac on an exciting potential partnership. Community engagement and education efforts about the Main Street approach will begin soon.
For more information about the work of the Community Foundation, visit here.
