If you think this guy really needs paid so he can continue his own business, consider this: What ever the amount is, prepay that amount for your repairs to him. He will have money to keep his bills paid, you will have prepaid your next repair bill. You will eventually use up all the credit you have there with  future repairs that you take there. When the township pays him, he keeps the townships money and what ever interest he collects. Your name stays out of any township money going to you.