A Message from Mayor Stimpson May 12. 2020
May 12th, 2020
Good evening,
It is 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12 and I am writing to give you an update on the City of Mobile's efforts regarding COVID-19.
As of tonight, there are 1,507 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mobile County, out of 12,764 total tests. There are 95 deaths attributed to the virus.
Today we took a major step forward as we issued the first payments from our "Ignite Mobile" fund, which was established to help businesses shut down by COVID-19.
We created this fund after hearing from local businesses that were forced to close under state order, but were unable to receive financial support from the federal Paycheck Protection Program or state unemployment benefits.
We set aside $500,000 to fund the program and began taking applications last week. So far, we've received 346 applications and approved payments to 182. The first payments were issued today following approval by the City Council at today's meeting.
We structured it as a grant program - as opposed to a loan - because we wanted to move as quickly as possible to get them the help they desperately need.
Applications are available on the city's web site by clicking here.
We continue to work with our restaurants and other "close contact" businesses to help them through this challenging time. As you make plans to dine out or visit a barber shop, salon or gym, please remember to follow the recommended guidelines from the CDC.
Be well and stay safe!
Sincerely,
Mayor Sandy Stimpson