After nearly a month of discussion and debate, the Spencer City Council has approved a new $300,000 flood recovery assistance program for rental properties.

On Monday, Nov. 4, by unanimous vote, minus the abstentions of councilors Tom Nelson, Ron Hansen, and Brian Balk, the council passed a resolution to provide micro-grants of up to $1,500 per rental unit to help rental property owners cover the cost of essential repairs, such as flooring and mechanical systems.