With the anticipation of an influx of Federal Housing Urban Development (HUD) funds, Harrisburg Mayor Linda Thompson has decided to bring back the Mayor's Revolving Loan Program.

At this point in time, the Thompson Administration is overseeing the previous Administration's Loan Program. According to Mayor Thompson, there are still 44 loans on the books. Thirty of those loans are on a repayment schedule. Not since taking the Mayor's office has Thompson given any loans. She said, "I haven't issued a single loan in two years, that was methodical." Her own Administration's program will be new and improved, she assured.

By the end of the year, the Mayor expects to introduce her hand-picked Revolving Loan Program Board to City Council for confirmation. "We have really, really good experts on the board." The Mayor said the board includes a CPA, an attorney, a CREDC staff member, along with City staff. There will be very "high standards" for loan applicants, Thompson said.

by Tara Leo Auchey

Photo/Natalie Cake