By Tom Scanlon | East Valley Tribune
An Aug. 26 City Council study session discussed possible uses of $105 million in federal funding, via the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act.The ARPA included $360 billion “to mitigate the fiscal effects stemming from the public health emergency with respect to the coronavirus disease.”
According to a presentation by Michael Kennington, Mesa’s chief financial officer, the city has certified and received $52.7 million from the federal government. “The remaining 50 percent is expected to be received in May of 2022.”
He outlined eligible uses for the funds:
•Responding to public health needs and economic damage from the pandemic.
•Providing premium (i.e. hazard) pay for essential workers.
•Replacing lost revenue.
•Investing in necessary water, wastewater and/or broadband infrastructure.
