The City of Palm Beach Gardens, in partnership with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and PGA Corridor Association, today announced the launch of their Economic Recovery Act to assist residents and small businesses.

“In solidarity with our local business leaders, the City of Palm Beach Gardens wants to help employers retain staff, cover overhead costs, and keep their doors open,” said Palm Beach Gardens Mayor Carl Woods. “These are uncertain times and we have worked with our community partners to come up with a plan we feel will have a big impact in the lives of those who live and do business here.”

“We commend the City for their support of local businesses and residents, and their swift action in the current climate,” said Chamber President & CEO Noel Martinez. “We are honored to work with the City and the PGA Corridor Association on this program and encourage our members to apply if they are eligible.”

Included in the Palm Beach Gardens Economic Recovery Act is the Small Business Relief Fund, which aims to support businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund has $1 million in aid available for eligible small businesses with less than 25 employees that have been in business in Palm Beach Gardens for 18 months or more. Funds received through the program will be in the form of a grant that businesses do not have to repay. The E.R.A. also includes $300,000 for the Unemployed Resident Relief Fund to assist residents who have had a loss of wages or been furloughed from their job by providing $250 Publix gift cards on a first-come, first-served basis, once eligibility has been established.

“Residents and small businesses in our community are hurting right now through no fault of their own, so we are excited to extend relief to those in need,” said City Manager Ron Ferris. “By allocating our economic development funds for this program, we are able to give back to some of the businesses and residents who support our city.”

Mayor Carl Woods and City Council members met on the evening of May 7 and unanimously approved the program that will provide assistance to small business owners and residents who have been negatively impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. Businesses who have received funds through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program or the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Emergency Bridge Loan are not eligible. Businesses interested in applying for the relief fund can get a detailed list of qualification criteria and more information through the city’s website at pbgfl.com/relieffund. The application process will begin on May 18.

The Unemployed Resident Relief Fund will require a two-step appointment process beginning with acquiring an appointment card. Appointment cards will be distributed via drive-thru on May 18, 2020, starting at 9 a.m. at the Gardens North County District Park. Details are available on the city’s website.