CERB meets six times each year to consider project requests.  The application process, which includes a site visit by CERB staff, must be completed at least 45 days prior to the meeting at which the request is to be considered.

Project requirements are:

Before submitting a project, please contact CERB staff to discuss the project and evaluate your eligibility.  A relationship with staff early in the project's development is key to strengthening the proposed project.

Committed Private Partner Program
As a public/private partnership, CERB provides funding assistance to communities to finance public facility construction necessary to create private sector jobs. The Committed Private Partner Construction Program requires an eligible private business commitment as part of the public entity's application. The applicant and business must provide evidence that a private development or expansion is ready to occur and that the private development is contingent upon the approval of CERB funds. CERB requires that the project generate either significant job creation or significant private investment in order to be eligible for funding. Applicants must demonstrate convincing evidence that the median hourly wage of the private sector jobs created after the project is completed will exceed the countywide median hourly wage . Applicants must also demonstrate the need for CERB assistance and that no other timely source of funds is available at a reasonably similar rate to the current CERB rate.

Prospective Development Construction Program
CERB assists rural communities with funding economic development infrastructure for CERB-eligible prospective development projects when feasibility is demonstrated. Jurisdictions in rural counties and rural communities are eligible for Prospective Development awards. The applicant must provide evidence that a private development or expansion is likely to occur as a result of the public improvements. CERB requires that the project generate either significant job creation or significant private investment in order to be eligible for funding. Applicants must demonstrate convincing evidence (based on a feasibility study) that the median hourly wage of the private sector jobs created after the project is completed will exceed the countywide median hourly wage . Applicants must also demonstrate the need for CERB assistance and that no other timely source of funds is available at a reasonably similar rate to the current CERB rate.

Planning Projects
CERB provides limited funding for studies which evaluate high-priority economic development projects. Projects should target job growth and long-term economic prosperity and can include: site-specific plans, studies, and analyses that address environmental impacts, capital facilities, land use, permitting, feasibility, marketing, project engineering, design, site planning and project debt and revenue impacts. When considering planning applications, the Board will give priority to those projects which could ultimately result in a type of project eligible for CERB construction funds.

All construction projects approved by CERB must respond to Executive Order 05-05 . Contact CERB staff for information regarding the CERB application process and Executive Order 05-05.  The Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation have more information about planning guidelines, FAQ's and the Executive Order.

May 2011