In an effort to help county officials find the latest information regarding the federal stimulus package, the Texas Association of Counties has updated and upgraded its Web site page regarding the new funding opportunities, officially dubbed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The page may be accessed at www.county.org/recovery.

You will notice a box to sign up for notifications whenever the stimulus page is updated with new information. Please sign up if you want to receive the latest updates.

On the left side of the page, you will see “Pre-Application Procedures,” which will give you information on what you need to know before applying for federal grants.

Below that section are links to a grant opportunities chart, an overview of the stimulus package, links to other helpful resources and the latest news stories and news releases.

Down the middle of the page are lists and links to Direct Applications to the Federal Government and the relevant subjects and the same for Sub-Grants from the State Government along with known deadlines.

TAC has also assigned a legislative staff member to help counties address the stimulus funding maze.

Elizabeth Vela, who has worked with local governments and non-profit organizations in the grant application process and in the policy analysis arena for several years, is available to offer insight into what grants may be available to a county and provide help in contacting appropriate sources of information at the state and federal levels.

Her direct phone line is (512) 615-8917.