Health emergency declaration puts village in line for virus relief funds

The Village of Grafton formally declared a public health emergency on Monday, April 6.

The majority of village trustees met online via Zoom instead of in person at Village Hall to unanimously approve the resolution.

“In order to protect the health and well-being of residents and visitors, declaring a state of emergency will facilitate and expedite the use of resources to protect persons from the impacts of the spread of the Covid-19 virus while ensuring continuity of critical operations within the Village of Grafton,” the resolution states.

Village President Jim Brunnquell made a proclamation two weeks ago, but to be in accordance with state statutes, the board had to formally ratify a resolution to ensure that the village is eligible to receive federal and state funding.  

“The goal is to make sure the village as a municipality puts itself in a position to be eligible for emergency relief funding should it be needed and becomes available,” Village Administrator Jesse Thyes said.

“We wanted to cross our T’s and dot our I’s.” 

Thyes said the resolution may help businesses in the village by making them eligible for grants through the Small Business Administration. 

“These are unprecedented times. Creativity and communication are key as we navigate this uncertain time,” Thyes said.

The Town of Grafton also declared a state of emergency due to the virus two weeks ago.