ATLANTA — Small business owners affected by the recent water crisis can apply for financial assistance from the city starting Monday.
After two major water main bursts left the city’s homes and businesses offline for nearly a week, the Atlanta City Council voted unanimously to transfer $7.5 million to a recovery fund to help businesses get back on their feet.
“We want to be in a position to help any small business that wants help,” said City Councilman Matt Westmoreland, who proposed the city’s ordinance.
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To be approved, businesses must be registered with the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office, have a valid 2024 City of Atlanta business license and be located within an affected boil water advisory area.
“It’s a blessing. No one expected this,” Steam House Lounge manager Keisha Frederick told Channel 2 Action News.
The Steamhouse in downtown Atlanta was one of dozens that were shut down for days because of the water crisis, and Frederick told Channel 2 the restaurant plans to apply for some of the relief funds.
Applications close on July 8, 2024. The city says any funds not claimed by June 30, 2025 will be returned to the Water and Sewer Revenue Fund.
If your business has been affected, you can apply for funding here.
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