Title
Consider approving Resolution No. 2024-190 authorizing the reallocation of American Rescue Plan Act Grant Funds; and take appropriate action.
Body
REQUESTOR:
Finance, Fleet, and Facilities Department
BACKGROUND:
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 provided emergency grants to governments to support the response and recovery from the COVID-19 public health emergency. The City of Farmers Branch was awarded $11,956,459. The City Council approved ARPA budget allocations in September 2021 and reallocations in May 2024.
To date, the Farmers Branch has allocated the full $11,956,459 to eight projects under the categories of Negative Economic Impact, Administrative Costs, and Public Health (focused on supporting public safety and promoting healthier lifestyles to mitigate the spread of COVID-19). Two projects, the Justice Center Renovation and Joya Park, are not entirely complete as of September 2024.
DISCUSSION:
According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, ARPA funds must be contracted by December 31, 2024, with all obligations liquidated by December 31, 2026. Due to delays in getting architectural drawings and contractor bids for the detention area of the Justice Center Renovation, staff proposes reallocating the remaining funds from the Justice Center project to cover incurred costs, ensuring the full utilization of ARPA funds. Specifically, staff recommends reallocating funds to the eligible Branch Connection Phase Two Renovation, which has incurred costs currently being funded by the Parks Capital Improvement Program (CIP) instead of ARPA.
Following approval of the Fuel Tank purchase of $582,135.94 on tonight's agenda (Agenda item N.1 Resolution No. 2024-191), approximately $150,000 will remain available for the Justice Center Renovation. To account for potential cost savings from architects and contractors, staff proposes reallocating an additional $250,000, bringing the total reallocation to $400,000 for the Branch Connection Renovation.
A...
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