During a Jefferson County Commission meeting Sept. 12, Jefferson Local Development Corporation Project Officer Leah Lewis, who administers American Rescue Plan Act funds, shared updates on the community’s “ARPA journey,” sharing what applications she’s receiving and what applications she hopes to see, as she believes there are several businesses in the county that qualify but haven’t yet reached out.
As of Sept. 20, Lewis said around 50 applications have come in, and approximately $1,052,947.41 has been expended.
At this time, Lewis said the ARPA program is currently accepting applications for Category 1 or Category 4, meaning ARPA funds are available for public health services (Category 1A) and for small businesses and nonprofits that aid in impacted industries, such as tourism, travel and hospitality (Category 1B). Category 4 grants include broadband, water and sewer, planning and engineering, outdoor spaces and health and wellness.
