Several local programs requested outside agency funding from the Storm Lake City Council on Monday.
* STORM LAKE UNITED is requesting $50,000. It hopes to use the funding for possible events such as a concert series, an art fair in the parks, a reboot of the multicultural fair, and technology such as a mobile app and online bulletin board to promote activities. SLU also hopes to beef up educational courses for local businesses.
* UPPER DES MOINES OPPORTUNITY has requested $20,000. The agency provides charitable services in Storm Lake, including a food pantry and utility assistance. No presentation was made.
* WITTER ART GALLERY has requested $18,000. The gallery is currently working to locate several donated small statues of children at sites around the city. It plans to pursue another mosaic mural project next fall with the help of visiting artists from Mexico, at a community site yet to be determined. Other needs include lighting upgrades and a Maker’s Space within the gallery space, which is located in the public library building.
* NCI SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT is asking $5,000. The agency provides counseling and coaching services to startups and existing businesses in a 12-county area to help them grow and succeed. The current goal is to work with 25 businesses in Storm Lake, and hopefully adding Smart Start Series programs to encourage entrepreneurs.
* BV HISTORICAL SOCIETY applied for $3,000. It would use the funding to improve kitchen and storage areas, plus some painting and lighting work, at the historical museum building in Storm Lake.
* SALUD multicultural health coalition is seeking $650. The funding would be used toward a second annual Women’s Day event planned for March 9th at the United Methodist Church building.
* PFLAG Storm Lake chapter is requesting $500. PFLAG is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and allies. The chapter was formed last year in Storm Lake, and hopes to use funding toward banners, table runners, signage, printed materials and other efforts to raise awareness. It is also planning toward involvement in local events and activities such as Pride Month.
* Imagine the Possibilities is also requesting $500. The agency assists youth and adults with disabilities to live in and become vital members of their communities, including habilitation, housing and life/job skills. No presentation was made.
Funding decisions will be made by the City Council as the budgeting process for the 2024-25 fiscal year continues over the next few weeks.
