Rutland business sees pandemic loan forgiveness voted down

RUTLAND, Vt. (WCAX) – The Rutland Business Incentive and Assistance program is walking back a decision to forgive a loan from the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to Rutland board of alderman, Paige Carrara was granted a 10-thousand dollar forgivable loan in 2020 to expand her ‘Blush Salon’ business downtown.

When Covid hit she had to use that money to keep her business afloat at 60 Center Street instead of starting renovations at 15 Center Street one of the conditions of the grant. She asked the Economic and Development Committee for forgiveness but it was voted down.

“I think it is between a rock and a hard place, there might be a creative solution that we haven’t figured out yet that works for everyone, um but I don’t think anybody is happy to not forgive one of these loans. I think its important for people to be aware that you know this isn’t free money you have to do certain things these are investments that we’re making in the communities so business are able to thrive.” said Michael Talbott, Rutland Board of Alderman President.

Carrera did not wish to speak about the situation and still has a chance to look for loan forgiveness in front of the full board of alderman.

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