Congressman Jerry McNerney has announced the release of a guide that details the availability of funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, commonly known as the economic stimulus package. The guide is intended to assist cities, counties and other local entities with navigating the process to apply for stimulus funding and has been sent to mayors and the County Board of Supervisors in the 11th Congressional District. The guide can be viewed on the congressman’s Web site, www.mcnerney.house.gov/pdf/mcnerneystimulusguide.pdf.

“During these tough times, it’s more important than ever to invest in the local economy and get people back to work,” said McNerney. “I’m committed to making sure this area gets its fair share of funding for projects that will create jobs, invest in roads and bridges and help our schools.”

Along with the guide, McNerney also announced the appointment of a member of his staff, Eric Halstrom, as the economic recovery advisor for the office. Halstrom will serve as a point of contact for questions about how to apply for funds from the stimulus package and can be reached at 202-225-1947.

“I have assembled this guidebook as a starting point for organizations and government officials that have questions about how to apply for funding from the stimulus package,” McNerney said. “I’ll be an advocate for local projects to receive funding and my office will continue to serve as a resource.”

The funds detailed in the guidebook are available from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that was signed into law on Feb. 17. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recently applauded McNerney for his vote in favor of the bill, calling it a “major first step toward igniting consumption and investment, creating jobs and jumpstarting California’s economy.”