Report Prepared by: Stephanie R. Dietz, City Manager
Title
SUBJECT: Report on the Implementation of the City Council Adopted American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Strategic Investment Plan, Including Seeking Direction on Program Elements for the Stimulus Program, Utility Bill Relief Program and Other Additional Operational Needs
REPORT IN BRIEF
Report on the implementation of the City Council adopted American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Strategic Investment Plan, including seeking direction from the City Council on program elements as they relate to the Stimulus Program, Utility Bill Relief Program, and other operational needs related to the continued impact of COVID-19 to essential services.
RECOMMENDATION
Provide staff direction on program elements and operational needs related to the implementation of the ARPA Strategic Investment Plan and continued impact of COVID-19 to essential services.
Body
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
DISCUSSION
During the October 18, 2021 Study Session, Staff and Council reviewed the survey results and public input regarding the ARPA funding allocation. During the Study Session Council received input from the public and provided staff areas of interest for ARPA funding allocation.
During the November 1, 2021 Public Hearing, the Council received input from the community and provided a refined list of projects for staff to evaluate. Those projects include: Affordable Housing, Water - conservation & SB 244, Broadband, Applegate Zoo, Downtown - Public Spaces & Street Scape, CP-42/Sports Fields, Utility Bill Relief, Job Training, Tourism, Stimulus Payments, Expanded Youth Services, On-going Operational Needs, Kiddie Land/Non-Profit Support, and City Beautification.
In addition to the areas above, the City Council also considered a program for Universal Basic Income (UBI). After discussion, the Council voted 4-3 to not move forward with the program. For this reason, UBI was not evaluated for future direction. ...
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