A heated exchange at the Gonzales City Council meeting unfolded this week as the council rejected two applications from groups seeking $5,000 grants from the city, with applicants expressing shock and disappointment at the rejection.

The Arc of East Ascension had requested $5,000 to purchase replacement equipment for the organization’s pecan-cracking program, while the Hispanic Heritage Festival asked for the same amount or free use of the Price LeBlanc PACE Center.

In rejecting the applications, some council members pointed to potential legal complications from allowing the PACE Center to be used for free, as there’s a standard rental rate and a discounted rate for nonprofit organizations. For the Arc of East Ascension, some council members wanted a clearer picture of the organization’s

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