NORWICH – The City of Norwich recently appointed its new Grants Coordinator, Lorraine Keckeisen.

According to City of Norwich officials, Keckeisen’s primary responsibility involves identifying potential Federal, State, County and private grant funds and matching them to the needs of the City of Norwich.

Officials said she reports directly to Dee DuFour, Director of Finance, and functions collaboratively with the Police and Fire Chiefs; Emergency Management Officer; Public Works Superintendent; Youth Bureau Director; and the Planning and Code Enforcement Officer.

According to City of Norwich Mayor Christine Carnrike, this is another step towards continuing to seek innovative ways to support the City of Norwich taxpayers, local businesses and the community. City representatives said taking a current needs assessment is a priority, and Lorraine will work to help determine the City Departments’ eligibility for grants.

“We are particularly looking to attract investor projects in the Opportunity Zones,” said Carnrike. “We will be exploring several initiatives that involve specific community or economic development needs like building a new hotel and conference center.”

Other considerations may involve: public infrastructure, such as lead or asbestos abatements; public facility repairs such as the blacktop in the Norwich City Skate Park; homes and community renewals to create affordable housing. Sidewalk repair and home restorations are also being considered, with paint and roofing, windows, etc. up for review and citizens’ participation is welcome, as this is often a grant requirement.

Keckeisen is a member of the Sidney Rotary Club, where she has served as a successful grant writer and enjoys a history in community service. Grants she’s helped secure have provided resources for: Sidney EMS stair chair, Joshua House handicap bathroom renovations, the Bassett Healthcare Network – Healthy Warriors Clinic Sidney Elementary School-Based Health Center’s Toothbrush Program, Sidney School Back Pack Program, ADAC-accredited “Recovery Coach Training” and an educational program for a “Night of Awareness on Substance Abuse Prevention.”

Officials said Keckeisen’s work experience reflects a strong, diverse business background. Her professional sales and marketing records show territory management skills, with accomplishments in the fields of education and business development in the computer manufacturing and technical industries.

She also spent nine years at SUNY Delhi managing a DEC grant from concept to completion. This involved market outreach, educational event planning and delivery of statewide, accredited training programs for industry professionals to abate water pollution. With inventive problem-solving and strong communications skills, Keckeisen demonstrated the ability to develop initiatives that grew partnerships and a team of volunteers; and SUNY Delhi realized revenue gains year after year.

Keckeisen’s passions include the development of community services through education, business development and youth-oriented programs. She leads the Tri-Town Coalition on Substance Abuse Prevention (COSAP), representing Sidney, Bainbridge, Unadilla, enjoys gardening and diving into ocean waves. Keckeisen holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Economics and Sustainability from SUNY Empire State College.