Services
Our services are not only to our members, but also to the region’s ancillary agencies, such as public service districts, local economic development agencies, airport authorities, local historic associations, non-profit organizations, volunteer fire departments, and other community organizations.
Grant Writing
Region VII can assist with grant writing and/or loan applications. We have extensive experience in writing and preparing applications for various types of funding sources, including transportation, water, sewer, economic development, and law enforcement. We network with funding agencies to prepare the most relevant and successful applications and have a long-standing track record of success.
Project Development
Region VII can assist our members or other agencies with the development of their respective projects, including: soliciting and hiring a project team, organizing meetings with potential funding agencies, and developing the most advantageous funding strategy for projects.
Preparing Loan/Grant Applications
Not only does Region VII draft copy for applications, but we also prepare and collect all documents required to complete and submit a competitive proposal to funding agencies. This often requires coordinating with all members of the project team and funding agency to gather information in a timely manner in order to meet deadlines.
Project Management/Administration
Region VII can enter into contract with project owners to manage their projects, ensuring the recipient complies with all regulations that are attached to the funding award. This process consists of preparing and submitting payment requisitions, attending meetings on behalf of the owner, monitoring contractors for labor compliance, preparing for regular or single audits, completing required environmental reports, and preparing and submitting performance reports to the funding agency or agencies. We consistently manage over 20 projects annually.
Technical Assistance
Region VII Planning & Development Council was founded to provide technical assistance to our member governments. We review applications, assist with reporting requirements of funding agencies, provide recommendations on project specifics, and review projects upon request.
Procurement
We can assist with the procurement of professional services or provide guidance on the requirements for any type of project/service. We have experience procuring and soliciting engineers, architects, attorneys, bond council, accountants, and other consultants as needed.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
A geographic information system (GIS) is a collection of software and services that provide methods for gathering, managing, and analyzing location data. A GIS integrates data and analysis into maps and applications that can visually communicate complex information to discern patterns, trends, and changes in virtually every field of study. Region VII has the resources and experience to assist our members in the development or expansion of their GIS projects including application development, database design, field data collection, mapping services, spatial data analysis, and training and technical support.
Hazard Mitigation
Region VII has the experience and ability to assist with developing a flood management plan, completing the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System application process, and developing a Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Strategic Planning
We have extensive experience in developing strategic plans for various types of organizations with a wide range of challenges and opportunities for growth. We coordinate with local jurisdictions to create innovative solutions to growth-related problems by identifying and prioritizing goals, creating proactive strategies to realize objectives.
Funding Searches
Region VII can assist member agencies with searching for potential funding sources for various types of projects. We have worked with state, federal, and private funding agencies such as: U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Land and Water Conservation Fund, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, WV Division of Justice & Community Services, the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, WV Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council, and the Department of Transportation, just to name a few.