MONMOUTH COUNTY – The Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce recently presented the Beacon of Heroes award to the Board of County Commissioners for their service and leadership, specifically focusing on those who worked against the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive this award. On behalf of my fellow Commissioners, I want to thank the Monmouth Regional Chamber of Commerce for selecting us,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said. “Throughout these unprecedented times, the Commissioners have advocated tirelessly for residents and businesses; and this continues today. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a struggle for many, but we are proud of the work we have been able to accomplish to help those who were, and are, in need of assistance.”
During the pandemic, one of the programs the county launched was the Monmouth County CARES Economic Assistance Grant Program. This program reimbursed small businesses and non-profits for up to $20,000 in COVID-19-related expenses. As a result, more than $40 million dollars was dispersed to small businesses and non-profits throughout the county.
Another program launched was the Monmouth County Emergency Rental Assistance program, allowing eligible households to receive up to $15,000 for rental costs incurred on or after March 13, 2020.
“Throughout the pandemic, the Board has worked around the clock to make sure we had the latest information to provide to our residents and maintained frequent communication with State, County, local officials and healthcare partners. The Board of County Commissioners also made sure that the residents of Monmouth County were confident in their ability to receive resources, such as weekly COVID-19 testing and the COVID-19 vaccine when it became available,” Commissioner Lillian G. Burry said. “I want to thank everyone who helped support us and for their dedication to making their community a better place.”
In addition, programs like the Monmouth ACTS Financial Recovery Initiative were created to educate and communicate financial programs and services available to residents who are facing financial hardship due to the pandemic. The ‘Take Out in Monmouth’ program listed restaurants that provided take-out options for residents. Over 750 businesses had signed up to take part in the program.
“The Commissioners came out strongly in opposition of park closures, in favor of indoor dining and businesses reopening, and for more vaccines for residents who were desperately seeking them this winter,” Commissioner Ross F. Licitra said. “The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners remains committed to assisting residents, non-profits, and businesses. The Beacon of Heroes award is a testament to the commitment displayed by the Board of County Commissioners.”
