KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Kalamazoo County Commissioners may finally decide how to spend millions in American Rescue Plan funding meant to heal wounds left by the pandemic.
The first subcommittee reports will be presented to the full board for debate and perhaps approval Tuesday evening, August 16. They received nearly 140 requests totaling far more money than they have.
The largest share, over $14-million, will be spent internally to bolster County programs and departments that took a hit because of Covid-19.
Prosecutor Jeff Getting told board members he was disappointed that funding for two victim-advocates he wants to keep isn’t on the subcommittee’s list. They are the specialists who help victims of crime.
“And you have the opportunity with the rescue plan dollars that you have to continue those victim advocate positions at no cost to your general fund,” said Getting as he addressed his disappointed to board members.
Board Vice Chair Monteze Morales is calling for civility in what has been an intense process at times.
“I think we need to stand back from inflammatory comments when you don’t get your way right away. Truly we’re doing the best with what we’ve got right now,” said Morales.
Board Chair Mike Quinn says it’s taken a lot of effort to get it this far.
“It’s hard stuff. It’s a slog, but we gotta do it, and I appreciate your work.”
Just over $5-million could be allocated for Health related losses and another $5.8-million to address negative impacts on the community, depending on whether the full board agrees with the subcommittee recommendations.
Administrator Kevin Catlin proposed reallocating money initially assigned to give outside agencies funds for critical worker bonuses, saying the need to bolster county programs was more important.
The board will also receive a proposal from County Housing Director Mary Balkema on how to adjust their plan to spend millions from a housing millage.
The changes are based on a new Upjohn Institute study that shows just how dire the housing crisis is, and what needs to be done to reverse it.
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