$20M EPA Grant Lost by Thomasville in Federal Cutback
TL/DR –
The Trump administration has rescinded Thomasville’s $19.8 million Community Change Grant as part of a larger rollback of environmental justice grants related to the Inflation Reduction Act. The funds were earmarked for upgrading aging sewer systems, assisting underprivileged neighborhoods with housing repairs, public health improvements, and a new community resilience hub. City and community leaders are considering legal action, including joining a class action lawsuit to challenge the decision.
Trump Administration Rescinds Thomasville’s $19.8 Million Environmental Justice Grant
The Trump administration has reversed a $19.8 million Community Change Grant originally awarded to Thomasville. This move is part of a larger rollback of Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) grants tied to the Inflation Reduction Act.
The grant was designed to fund repairs of aging sewer systems and support underserved neighborhoods with home improvements, public health enhancements, and a new community resilience hub.
Upset City and Community Leaders Explore Legal Action
City and community officials are pushing back against the decision, exploring legal avenues such as joining a class action lawsuit. This comes in the wake of the EPA’s cuts of over 700 grants, which included the substantial amount that was destined for Thomasville.
“We all worked so hard for this, and we won. All of a sudden, it’s gone. It was a huge disappointment,” said Earl Williams from the Thomasville Community Development Corporation (TCDC).
Grant Intended to Improve Infrastructure and Health
Thomasville, one of the few recipients of this grant, planned to restore failing sewer lines while the TCDC hoped to help disadvantaged neighborhoods. This included home improvements, addressing health concerns, and establishing a community resilience hub for weather-related emergencies.
“Unchecked issues can significantly impact community health,” said Williams. The city also planned to use the funds for infrastructure improvement.
City Officials Look Beyond Rescinded Grant
Despite the rescinded grant, city officials maintain that infrastructure improvements are still necessary. They’re currently seeking alternative funding methods for these projects.
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