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Workgroups join forces to distribute $750,000 in CARES Act relief to small businesses
Last year, employees throughout TPU worked together to distribute federal CARES Act funding to assist local small businesses with their utility bills. With so many impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the need throughout our community was tremendous. The utility made tough decisions to ensure as many businesses as possible received the funds. TPU provided $750,000 in utility bill relief to 794 companies. The City of Tacoma received funds from the Federal CARES Act as part of Washington State’s response to the coronavirus. Small businesses that employ 50 or fewer workers, operate from a brick-and-mortar building in Tacoma, and have an active TPU account, could qualify for this program.
Team TPU worked quickly to get the word out and let establishments know about the available assistance. Community and Government Relations staff, led by Clark Mather, developed a high-level plan to determine funding amounts and distribution. They collaborated with Customer Solutions and Business Solutions to determine the application and approval processes. Information Technology Downtown developed an online form to make applying easy. The Communications team put out information to reach as many organizations as possible in record time. Utilities account executives provided input on eligibility, the application process, and the communication plan. They validated applications over four weeks and called customers to fill in the missing information. Everyone expressed their appreciation for the chance to positively impact so many customers and make a difference during the pandemic. “We looked at this as a once in a career outreach opportunity,” said Account Executive Keil Drescher. “We may never be able to provide this type of support again in the future.” The appreciative response from customers was overwhelming. Many businesses struggled to pay their utility bills, and others were thankful we helped their fellow business owners.
“We are very grateful for our partnership with TPU not only for helping us manage our energy use strategically, which has resulted in lower utility bills but also for their financial support of our mission through CARES funding,” said Brent Mason, executive director of the Foss Waterway Seaport.
Mike Blaisdell, general manager at Bunce Rental, also praised the program, “The CARES funding was a great help, and the application process on the TPU website was easy. I appreciate the City’s focus on helping small and medium businesses.” The need in our business community is still great. TPU would have been unable to assist so many businesses in such a short time had it not been for the teamwork and collaboration of staff from so many different departments.
