$70 Million in COVID-19 Relief Funds: How Jackson County Plans to Spend
According to KC Today, Jackson County has $70 million remaining from its COVID-19 relief funds, and leaders are currently debating how best to allocate this money. With a looming deadline, the plan must be finalized by the end of the year, and all funds must be spent by the end of 2026. If the county fails to do so, the federal government will reclaim the unspent money.
Source of the Funds
The remaining $70 million comes from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a federal initiative designed to help revive the economy following the COVID-19 pandemic. Jackson County initially received $136,551,645 from this act, which was distributed to various projects and initiatives to support the community.
Previous Allocations
So far, around $1.2 million of the ARPA funds were allocated for vaccination efforts. An additional $17 million went to local organizations for public health projects, including upgrading shelters for unhoused individuals and strengthening food banks. The remaining funds, excluding the current $70 million, were distributed across a variety of local projects.
Debate on Future Spending
The big question now is how the county should spend the remaining $70 million. Ideas circulating within the legislature include renovating the 1300 Washington St. building, which houses government offices, and providing grants to local charities.
Federal Guidelines on Spending
While there are many potential uses for the funds, federal guidelines impose certain restrictions. The money must be used for specific purposes, such as:
- Investing in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure
- Supporting small businesses, households, industries, and workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic
- Replacing lost public revenue
The funds cannot be used for tax reductions or pension funds.
Local Opinions on Fund Allocation
Given these limitations, some local editors have weighed in with their suggestions:
- “If we can’t use it for roads, let the money flow to KC Water’s Drinking Water Service Line Inventory project.” — Editor Maddie
- “Give our school teachers a bonus — just in time for the holidays.” — Editor Charm
As the debate continues, Jackson County leaders must decide how to best utilize these remaining funds to benefit the community before the federal deadline.
