By Rachel Kamel
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
The Baltimore County Council approved a bill Tuesday that would allocate $7.1 million in federal funds to help residents who cannot pay their rent for reasons caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The money, which is part of a coronavirus relief package approved by Congress late last year, will be used as direct financial assistance that help residents pay their rent, utilities, home energy costs and other housing expenses.
Households are eligible if one or more individuals qualified for unemployment benefits, had a reduction in income or incurred significant costs due to COVID-19, is at high risk for housing instability or homelessness, or has a monthly income at or below 80% of the area median income.
This bill was unanimously passed after being amended to lower the cost of the program. The original bill recommended a budget of $13.6 million.
Councilwoman Cathy Bevins, D-District 6, made the amendment to decrease the proposed amount and Councilman Wade Kach, R-District 3, seconded the amendment.
The county said the program will help approximately 412 households.