Rule 110-7-2-.05. Review of Grant Applications

Rule 110-7-2-.05. Review of Grant Applications

1. (1) All applications received from applicants will be reviewed to determine the merit of the applications and the proposed use of funds. In determining whether an eligible applicant shall receive a grant award, the following criteria will be considered:

   Project applications will be reviewed based upon enhancement of multi-county or regional economic development opportunities including, but not limited to, numbers and types of jobs to be retained and/or created; impact on the state, regional and community tax base; likelihood of success in leading to the retention of jobs within the multi-county or regional area or enhanced job creation; improved regional competitiveness, long-term economic viability, or other regional impacts identified by the applicant; degree of local commitment and financial support; total private capital investment; level of need evidenced by regional poverty and unemployment rates, fiscal capacity of participating governments, and other demographic factors; consistency with the region's economic development goals and objectives; capacity of the implementing organization; project readiness; project feasibility; and reasonableness of cost estimates.

2. (2) All applications for funding from this program must provide written certification from the applicant, addressed to the Department, to the effect that the applicant is authorized under the laws of the State to carry out the project and activities that are the subject of the application and that the proposed expenditure of funds is in accordance with all applicable legal requirements.
3. (3) In its review of applications, the Department may, at its discretion, consult with other individuals or agencies as appropriate for the purpose of receiving advice.
4. (4) These guidelines are designed to assist the Department in making its decision and only constitute minimum standards. Additional factors may be considered depending on the nature of particular projects, their relative merit and the availability of funding at the time of application. For certain consolidation proposals, funding limits, match requirements, and applicant eligibility requirements may be waived upon recommendation by the Commissioner of Community Affairs. The decision that the Department makes shall be final and conclusive.

Submitted: Aug. 10, 1998.Submitted: Sept. 10, 1999.

Authority: O.C.G.A. Sec. 50-8-8 and Appropriations Act.

History. Original Grant description entitled "Review of Grant Applications" submitted August 19, 1997.