Houston is exploring seeking grant money that would help pay for equipment required at the Piney River Technical Center.
The news came Monday during a meeting of the Houston City Council. Rob Harrington, economic development director for the city, said he is working with a regional planning group, the South Central Council of Governments, to determine whether the project might qualify under Gov. Mike Parson’s “Workforce Training Initiative.” The program is accepting proposals for financial assistance to support capital improvements, equipment, program supplies and training materials directly in support of successful job training programs that will increase access to underserved areas and persons of low and moderate income. The city would apply for Community Development Block Grant.
The Piney River Technical Center is a project of several institutions — the city, Houston School District and Texas County Memorial Hospital — to offer education for those seeking technical skills, including nursing. The building, owned by the City of Houston’s Industrial Development Authority, is located on Spruce Street. Mineral Area College has announced plans to offer classes in the fall. Drury University already is on site. Eventually, a student could earn a two-year degree at Mineral Area College and complete the final two years at Drury.
Harrington told the council that the South Central Council of Governments will determine if the project qualifies and has a good chance of funding. If the project passes go, then Houston would be invited to submit an application. The cap is $500,000.
In other matters, members:
•Heard the need to install some playground equipment at parks that was obtained from the Healthy Schools, Healthy Communities initiative earlier. The contract was signed about two years ago.
•Discussed the search for a parks and recreation department director. Discussions continue between the city and its park board about candidates. A special meeting of the two bodies might be held.
•Highlighted what was described as a health hazard at Chestnut and Broadway streets.
A citation was issued after a business failed to clean up insulation debris.
•Welcomed Scott Avery at his first meeting as Houston city administrator. He was recently hired to fill the post. His first day on the job was Monday.
•Heard that no timetable is known for a residential development on Hawthorn Street on property acquired from the City of Houston.
•Adjourned into a closed meeting.