349 municipalities in Massachusetts are currently members of the MMA. In addition, the Treasury guidance allows for spending on cybersecurity aimed at protecting water and sewer infrastructure; projects promoting climate change resilience (for instance, reducing energy consumption on water and sewer facilities); and lead water line service replacement. Of course, check with your governments financial or ARPA entity for any of their guidelines or recommendations first! For the non-entitlement jurisdictions, the amount will not exceed seventy- five percent of their most recent budget as of January 27, 2020. Successful project applications will identify how the project addresses the identified need or impact. ARPA emphasizes the pandemics disproportionate impacts on low-income communities, people of color, and Tribal communities in two areas: (1) higher rates of infection and illness, and (2) higher impacts where COVID exacerbated structural inequities and underinvestment. Response to the public health emergency or its negative economic consequences To analyze whether a project is necessary, the Final Rule notes that: Treasury considers an investment in infrastructure to be necessary if it is (1) responsive to an identified need to achieve or maintain an adequate minimum level of service, which for some eligible project categories may include a reasonable projection of increased need, whether due to population growth or otherwise and (2) a cost-effective means for meeting that need, taking into account available alternatives DWSRF and CWSRF eligible projects continue to be presumed to be necessary investments under the final rule, with the exception of projects for the rehabilitation of dams and reservoirs. Whenever possible, expenditures related to the ARPA funding should be spread over the qualifying period (through December 31, 2024) to enhance budgetary and financial stability. Youve been searching for a place like WGI. Access to internet became an important conversation in the equitable access of education, healthcare, and government services. [8] U.S. Department of the Treasury, Statement Regarding Compliance with the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Interim Final Rule and Final Rule, available at: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRF-Compliance-Statement.pdf. If technology can support outreach, applications, placement, or other relevant services, it is likely valid for ARPA funding. 5. each week (as ofJune 4, 2021). Norcross, GA 30092, 2021 East 5th St Suite 101 Judge Lina Hidalgo called it "kicking the can down the road." Despite the misgivings and criticism, the commission unanimously approved the spending. Charlotte, NC 28277, 2001 Butterfield Rd We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if additional guidelines are implemented. Whats the Difference Between CARES and ARPA? Of course, every entity receiving Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery funds will have its own requirements for eligibility. Initial federal ARPA funding to the states and their political subdivisions was estimated to begin as early as May. For more information on required information as part of such a capital expenditure, please see pages 196-201 of the Final Rule. Towns that have received ARPA funds must complete a yearly report on the use of ARPA funds. Across the country, the pandemic has impacted low-income andvulnerable communitieswith disproportionate severity. The latest guidance clarifies that road repairs connected to eligible water and sewer infrastructure improvements can be included. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, also called the COVID-19 Stimulus Package or American Rescue Plan, is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill passed by the 117th United States Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 11, 2021.The intent of the legislation is to speed up the United States' recovery from the economic and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the . 30, 2021); Environmental Protection Agency, Clean Water State Revolving Fund, https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf (last visited Apr. Water, sewer and broadband Cities with populations below 50,000 will receive $19.53 billion. Only in these communities, this spending may include: Update: On January 6, 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the Final Rule, which governs the eligible uses of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ("SLFRF") under the American Rescue Plan Act ("ARPA").The Final Rule makes several key changes to the Interim Final Rule, including expanding the eligible uses of CSLFRF and easing the administrative burden for some . The American Rescue Plan (ARP) has become significantly more flexible. Any further discussion on this issue can be found in the ARPA Uses tab. Pre-project development expenses for eligible water and sewer projects are also allowed, and State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds may be used to support energy or electrification infrastructure that would be used to deliver clean power to water treatment plants and wastewater systems on a pro-rata basis. Finance officers play a critical role in advising elected leaders on the prudent spending of moneys received under ARPA. Our software implementation services offer our clients flexibility when choosing their solution. Fiscal Recovery Funds provide flexibility for governments to meet local . To make necessary Improvement in infrastructure The funds can be used for improvements to provide clear drinking water, sewer upgrades, and expansion of broadband. Numerous DOT funding opportunities provide flexibility in cost sharing requirements for rural, Tribal, and disadvantaged communities. 31 CFR 35 at 266, available at: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRF-Final-Rule.pdf. ARPA FUNDING: HOW CAN MICHIGAN TOWNSHIPS USE THE FUNDS? Building C, Ste 100 Investing in technology and equipment to allow law enforcement to more efficiently and effectively respond to the rise in gun violence resulting from the pandemic. That said, the interim rule does note eligibility for certain infrastructure maintenance projects considered a government service (maintenance or pay-go funded building of infrastructure including roads) and green streets. The interim final rule states that though funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024, they can be used through the end of the reporting period on December 31, 2026. Here are some key ways metropolitan cities and NEUs are allocating their SLFRF dollars for infrastructure projects: Public Space: Williamsburg, Virginia allocated $900,000 of the city's ARPA funds to enhance a playground at Waller Mill Park. But a final version of those regulations is still forthcoming. The influx of funds will undoubtedly benefit state and local finances, and aid in the recovery from the budgetary, economic, and financial impacts of the pandemic. Ineligible uses of ARPA funds Counties that are CDBG recipients will receive the larger of the population or CDBG-based formula. . Save time, stay compliant and reduce risk while easily, What Can ARPA Funds be Used For: A Guide for Local Government, , which meanscommunity members still need support. Authorized representative name, title, and email, Contact person name, title, phone, and email, Funds transfer information, including recipients financial institution, address, phone, and routing number and account number, Completed award terms and conditions (to be signed by the authorized representative), Though there is no application deadline as of the publication of this article, funding requests for those who have completed applications are already being fulfilled. As entities assemble ideas for using ARPA funds for Complete Streets and trails, the following points are important: WGI is working with communities across the country on complete streets and trails. In Greater Cleveland, $1.1 billion will be coming our way, with another $331 million flowing to Greater Akron, $167 . In a nutshell, ARPA provides $350 billion for state, local, territorial, and tribal governments to address COVID-related economic impact through the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund. Metropolitan cities will receive $45.57 billion, with fundsallocated based on the existing HUD. If the clean energy provider provides power to other entities, only the proportionate share used by the water treatment plant or wastewater system would be an eligible use of State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Funds allocated to states cannot be used to directly or indirectly to offset tax reductions or delay a tax or tax increase; Funds cannot be deposited into any pension fund. To offer swift guidance on the use of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF), the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) published the . ARPA provides funding for many programs and services nationwide. The ARPA funding has broader parameters and a lengthier timeline for spending. Hybrid approaches to government services, accessible both in person and online, allow constituents to access services on their channel of choice. It includes benefits directly to individuals, such as recovery rebates . WGI supports its associates with meaningful opportunities for growth, strong benefits and perks, while we work collaboratively with clients and co-consultants to shape and improve communities. infrastructure projects, to include roads and bridges. The Department of Treasury has provided guidance that ARPA funds may be used to make necessary investments in water, sewer, or broadband infrastructure. How Much ARPA Funding Is Available for State and Local Government? Temporary Nature of ARPA Funds. Responses must be related and reasonably proportional to the extent and type of harm experienced. Simplify managing agendas, meetings, and committees with a single, end-to-end solution to optimize and digitize your legislative management process. 801 et seq., at 603(c)(1)(D), available at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1319/text#HAECAA3A95C4E4FFAB6AA46CE5F9CB2B5. Learn more and view specific programs that offer flexibilities. Renewals must be completed each year on the SAM.gov website. The Final Rule governing the use of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, issued today by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, significantly increases flexibility for municipalities, particularly in the way they calculate local tax revenue loss attributable to the pandemic.. Treasury issued rules in May to guide how states and localities can use the money. [3] Pay-go infrastructure funding refers to the practice of funding capital projects with cash-on-hand from taxes, fees, grants, and other sources, rather than with borrowed sums. Cities and towns can now use up to $10 million of ARP funds towards general government services under a new "standard allowance" for revenue replacement. It's no mystery Highway 42 has a lot of traffic, which is why TXDOT is widening the road. In summary, local government can use ARPA funds to: Algoma did receive CARES Act funds last year, he said. Our software integrations are built to seamlessly connect with your tech stack, allowing you to work more efficiently. To complete the submission for Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery funds, you will need to provide the following information on behalf of your organization: Though there is no application deadline as of the publication of this article, funding requests for those who have completed applications are already being fulfilled. Recipients will compute the extent of their reduction in revenue by, comparing their actual revenue to an alternative representing what could have been expected to occur in the absence of the pandemic, . Counties will receive $65.1 billion, with fundsallocated based on population size. That money can't be used for roads, but still qualifies for spending on special mitigation projects related to public health. , whereyourdepartment reaches out to the group overseeing funds. American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Statementof Need:How has the pandemic affected your department? In communities where the pandemic has led to an increase in violence, recipients may use funds to address that harm. 30, 2021). State and local jurisdictions should be aware of plans for ARPA funding throughout their communities. All of the county's ARPA funds must be allocated by 2025, and spent by 2026. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocated $350 billion in Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (Fiscal Recovery Funds) to help states, counties, cities, and tribal governments respond to the COVID-19 public health emergency, address its economic fallout, and lay the foundation for an equitable recovery. There are three areas where Complete Streets and trail projects may align with ARPA funding criteria: public health, addressing economic impacts, and infrastructure. Along with allocations of funds by government entity, the eight-page fact sheet clarifies uses of funding. The $15,000 needs to be used by the end of April, but funds can . Rebuilding Public Sector Capacity to Support Economic Recovery, Recipients may also use this funding to build their internal capacity to successfully implement economic relief programs, with investments in, - Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund, Lets say, for example,that your city uses ARPA funds to set up a loan or grant program for local businesses. As a place to start, a basic set of questions for a technology project plan is below. Local governments have until December 31, 2024 to allocate their ARPA funds. These tools can accelerate aid to community members in the greatest need, and even increase the number of people able to be served through optimization. STREAMLINE is an accelerator platform for public sector agencies that need to build custom solutions to meet their needs. The relief funds are being distributed as follows . For counties, the $65 billion will be allocated based on the countys population. See how a business process management tool built for government can drive efficiency quickly without long-term costs >>, 3. [1] Treas. Tallahassee, FL 32309, 3111 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd. Rock Solid Technologies helps governments optimize process management through Microsoft-based software solutions. Once a shortfall has been identified, municipalities have broad latitude to use ARPA funding to support government services, up to the amount of lost revenue. Supplant General Revenue Expenditures for Pandemic Purposes. It's a must-read if you want to understand how to use ARPA funds. The city was the first applicant for the county's ARPA funds, submitting a $1 million grant to fund a UV wastewater disinfection system at the treatment plant. Funds used for the following ineligible purposes must be repaid to the Treasury: The American Rescue Plan provides$350 billionin emergency funding for state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to remedy themismatch between rising costs and falling revenues. "While we can weather it for this year and use ARPA funds, that's at the cost of not doing something else with those ARPA funds", said County Administrator David Berry. Suite 200 ARPA Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Funds are being provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury (Treasury) to help local governments recover from the Coronavirus pandemic. Just as with the public sector, residents expect to get what they need with, in more channels than ever before. If technology can support outreach, applications, placement, or other relevant services, it is likely valid for ARPA funding. Clemons said he expects the commission to take up a road plan based on the additional funding well ahead of the upcoming spring paving . Houston, TX 77019, 305 Church St Southwest, Suite 601 The period of performance continues for an additional two years, through December 31, 2026. The $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) provides $200 million for the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and billions more for library-eligible programs, including over $7 billion for broadband and devices. TheU.S. Department of the Treasury(Treasury) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) FinalRule directly states: In the final rule, Treasury is maintaining the approach under the interim final rule that general infrastructure projects, including roads, streets, and surface transportation infrastructure, would generally not be eligible, unless the project responded to a specific pandemic public health need or a specific negative economic impact.[1]. Funding 'About Me' Signed into law in March 2021, the trillion American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is distributing more than $360 billion in infrastructure related funding for state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments, part of which can be used for "government services," particularly of interest to state and local governments preparing for infrastructure projects (). Revenue replacement for the provision of government services to the extent of the reduction in revenue due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, relative to revenues collected in the most recent fiscal year prior to the emergency. or pay-go funded building of roads as a government service and therefore eligible under revenue loss up to the extent of reduction in revenue. Funding jobs programs is also a defined eligible expense. This will require new stakeholders who have the ear and the voice of neighborhoods often left out of infrastructure planning. WGIs Lisa Nisenson highlights some ways that Complete Street and trail projects may potentially qualify for funding. [1] Treas. We are leaders in government software solutions and services. On May 21, 2021, the U.S. Department of Revenue issued an interim final rule (referred to as interim rule hereafter) establishing funding criteria. To determine whether a use falls under this category, the rule states that township officials should consider whether and how the use . Our rapidly changing communities face incredible pressures and challenges ranging from the environmental to the technological and beyond. 48% of all car trips are less than three miles in length, with about twenty percent being shorter than one mile (source: Heavy traffic and lack of separated paths or trails were the most frequently identified barriers to bicycling more (source: Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation are the single largest source of greenhouse gases in the U.S., accounting for about 29% of total GHG emissions (source: In a typical community, 20- 40% of residents cannot, should not, or prefer not to drive for most trips, and so benefit from multimodal planning that responds to those demands (source: In areas where over 20 percent of households are below the federal poverty line, the pedestrian death rate is more than 80 percent higher than the U.S. average (source: Funds are being released in two stages for states, cities and counties: half of the funds were made available in May 2021, with the second half to be released in May 2022. Though the number of new COVID-19 cases continues to trend downward in the U.S., the CDC still reports. Were refreshing our brand to reflect the energy, inspiration, and excitement that we feel when we come to work every day. The Final Rule states , recipients may use [CSLFRF] funds for road repairs and upgrades that interact directly with an eligible stormwater infrastructure project.. They may be used for any public purpose authorized by state law. https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRF-Final-Rule.pdf, https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRPFAQ.pdf. Government services include, but are not limited to, maintenance or pay-go funded building of infrastructure, including roads; modernization of cybersecurity, including hardware, software, and protection of critical infrastructure; health services; environmental remediation; school or educational services; and the provision of police, fire, and other public safety services. 19 emergency, the new rule states that the funds can only be used to cover costs beginning March 3, 2021. In addition, Treasury encourages municipalities to consider the guidance issued in the Statement Regarding Compliance with the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds Interim Final Rule and Final Rule. Signed into law on March 11, 2021,The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021(ARPA) provides $350 billion in additional funding for state and local governments. ARPA would fund $3.8 million for the city's bridge construction program, so that $3.8 million in bond money can go towards public art. The ARP also specifically authorizes expenditures of monies through the CLFRF to make necessary investments in water, sewer, or broadband infrastructure.. The digital divide and broadband were hot topics throughout the pandemic. ARPA money can't be used to decrease taxes or delay an expected tax increase. Further, funds can be used for road repairs and upgrades that occur in connection with an eligible water or sewer project. / MTA / JULY 15, 2021 1 . 31 CFR 35 at 5, available at: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRF-Final-Rule.pdf. And while the Final Rule indicates that infrastructure projects are generally excluded unless deemed necessary for improvements specifically related to water, sewer, or broadband, in responding to a specific public health need or a specific negative economic impact, general infrastructure projects may be permitted. Indianapolis, IN 46268, 4371 U.S Highway 17 South Lorain's estimated ARP allocation is $31 million. Lisa is a respected urban designer known for combining timeless community design and innovation with focus on fast-tracking advanced planning techniques and emerging technologies. Did your local government have a technology project postponed or cancelled because of pandemic-related budgetary concerns? :Omnichannel communication is critical for getting prevention and vaccine information to diverse communities. Response to the public health emergency or its negative economic consequences Localities will receive the funds in two tranchesthe first after the U.S. Treasury certifies the proceeds to each jurisdiction and the second one year later. SIMA is your enterprise resource planning solution to manage budgets, accounting, and human resources. Links to specific funding amounts for each groupare listedonthe Treasuryswebsite. April 6, 2022 update: In 2021 the City of Ann Arbor was informed that it would be awarded $24.2 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. Her passion is reinventing community planning processes and tools to meet trends and challenges. from the intersections with the North Guilford and Elliottsville roads as well as a portion of the North Guilford Road to see how traffic can be slowed down and walkability can be improved. The latest updates include expanded information regarding eligible expenses for addressing court case backlogs, assisting certain business startups, eviction prevention and housing stability services, including utility assistance, counseling, outreach, and legal aid services. Public Works, Transportation and Public Utilities, The latest iteration of the FAQ was issued on July 14, Environmental Protection Agencys clean water state revolving fund, Jackie Lavender Bird, Senior Legislative Analyst, Neros Law training deadline extended by a year, MMA urges Legislature to extend remote meeting authorizations. Importantly, the Treasury allows recovery fund recipients to presume that any reduction of revenue during this time resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. As with previous COVID-19 relief packages, implementation will be an extensive process as new or updated guidance and FAQs are developed and released by theU.S. Treasury. Under the Interim Final Rule, government services can include, but are not limited to, maintenance or pay-go funded building of infrastructure, including roads; modernization of cybersecurity, including hardware, software and protection of critical infrastructure; health services; environmental remediation; school or educational services; and the provision of police, fire, and other public safety services. that allow government communication across multiple devices and language can expand the reach of communications, including to low-income community members who, This can also support other initiatives like the, services or outreach to promote access tobehavioralhealth and social services, Enhancement of public health data systems. The park itself features space for outdoor recreation, including playfields, fishing, boating, pedal . We urge the House, Senate, and governor to join many other states in using ARPA funds for repairs of roads and bridges, and take a bold step to finally reverse decades of underinvestment in some . . Yes, while you cannot reprogram between the designated pots of funding, there is great flexibility in the use of the funding distributed under ATG and Law Enforcement due to the terms Tribal Government Services and Other Related Expenses. Here are answers to some of the recent questions we've heard most . Gainesville, FL 32606, 2727 Allen Parkway Fleming Island, FL 32003, 11410 NW 20th Street That process is currently under development by the U.S. Treasury. Use other dedicated grants and programs first whenever possible and save ARPA funds for priorities not eligible for other federal and state assistance programs. Treasury considers an investment in infrastructure to be necessary if it is (1) responsive to an identified need to achieve or maintain an adequate minimum level of service, which for some eligible project categories may include a reasonable projection of increased need, whether due to population growth or otherwise and (2) a cost-effective means for meeting that need, taking into account available alternatives DWSRF and CWSRF eligible projects continue to be presumed to be necessary investments under the final rule, with the exception of projects for the rehabilitation of dams and reservoirs. 27th Floor A town survey had revealed that respondents overwhelmingly favored the use of ARPA funds to . It was a response to the COVID-19 . Presentations, awards, networking, and more! 2023 Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada, Alliance for Excellence in School Budgeting, Accounting, Auditing, & Financial Reporting, Employment Resources for Finance Officers, Imposed Fee and Fine Use by Local Governments, Accounting, Auditing and Financial Reporting, Intergovernmental Relations and Federal Fiscal Policy, Public Employee Pension and Benefits Administration, Tax-Exempt Financing and the Municipal Bond Market, American Rescue Plan Spending: Recommended Guiding Principles. ARPA funds are non-recurring so their use should be applied primarily to non-recurring expenditures. [4], In addition to the revenue loss category, road work would be eligible as required by stormwater system infrastructure projects. West Palm Beach, FL 33411, 1232 Winter Garden Vineland Road Restrictions on the uses of these funds include: Funding must be obligated by the end of calendar year 2024 and expended by the end of calendar year 2026. Cary, NC 27518, 5710 W. Hausman Rd Enter your zip code, and well personalize your experience with local projects, office locations, team members, and more. Update: On January 6, 2022, the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the Final Rule, which governs the eligible uses of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds ("SLFRF") under the American Rescue Plan Act ("ARPA").The Final Rule makes several key changes to the Interim Final Rule, including expanding the eligible uses of CSLFRF and easing the administrative burden for some . Ultimately, this section of the fact sheet suggests that any technology that can help your government support pandemic recovery may be eligible for ARPA funds. Technology ishighlightedas an area for spending to address the negative economic impacts of the pandemic. [7] Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, Frequently Asked Questions (as of January 2022), at 1, available at: https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRPFAQ.pdf. The Treasury did not release funding amounts for Tribal governments, as they will receive allocation information after submitting their funding applications. The Treasury did not release funding amounts for Tribal governments, as they will receive allocation information after submitting their funding applications. State and local governments cannot use the funds towards pensions or to offset revenue resulting from a tax cut enacted since March 3, 2021. Use of ARPA funds to cover operating deficits caused by COVID-19 should be considered temporary and additional budget restraint may be necessary to achieve/maintain structural balance in future budgets. Hiring law enforcement officials, even above pre-pandemic levels, or paying overtime where the funds are directly focused on advancing community policing strategies in those communities experiencing an increase in gun violence associated with the pandemic Technology, from, constituent relationship management platforms. ARPA funds can be used to support distance learning, tutoring, and after school programs for both K -12 and higher education students These funds can also be directed to support the emotional and mental health needs of students ARPA additionally allocates $7.1 billion for the E -Rate program,

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