Laserfiche WebLink
distributed via email which demonstrated the City's previously approved uses of ARPA funding <br /> which included emergency rent assistance to Lakewood Community Services Center, sewer <br /> infrastructure, revenue replacement and the parks ambassador program. She explained that <br /> ARPA funds must be encumbered by 12/31/24 and spent by 12/31/26. She reported that the City <br /> is on track to spend all of its ARPA dollars within the provided time limit. <br /> In response to a question, Chief Storey explained that most of the seven proposed projects are <br /> 100% eligible for ARPA funds. The Foster Pool renovation and downtown development project <br /> are expected to only have portions that are eligible such as ADA and environmental components. <br /> Mayor George stated that these seven projects were selected with an intention to comply with the <br /> intention of ARPA and avoid any confusion. <br /> Referencing the already allocated ARPA funds, Councilmember Kepple asked if the city needed <br /> to demonstrate a revenue loss in order to use revenue replacement dollars. <br /> Director Rancatore replied that the City is allowed to show a modest growth in revenue while <br /> still receiving those funds. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Kepple, the administration provided additional <br /> information regarding the Lake-Clifton Bridge Connector project as a proposed use of ARPA <br /> funds. Mayor George explained that 20% of the project funds must come from Lakewood in an <br /> amount not to exceed $800,000. The existing cost estimates are based on conceptual drawings <br /> with a formal design process to kick off soon. Construction is scheduled for 2024. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Kepple, the administration provided additional <br /> information regarding the facility upgrades as a proposed use of ARPA funds. Mayor George <br /> explained that both male and female police locker rooms are intended to be upgraded. It was <br /> unclear if the fitness room will also be upgraded. <br /> Councilmember Rader expressed support for the proposed building upgrades and suggested <br /> replacing old equipment and spaces with more energy efficient and new technology. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Kepple, the administration provided additional <br /> information regarding the upgrade to the public safety communications equipment and radios as <br /> a proposed use of ARPA funds. Chief Storey explained that the current equipment is nearly <br /> obsolete, and its cost has skyrocketed due to inflation. <br /> Referencing the already allocated ARPA funds, the administration provided additional <br /> information about the parks ambassador program. Chief Storey explained that despite best <br /> efforts, the program did not get off the ground this summer due to a lack of qualified candidates. <br /> He expressed confidence that the program will experience a strong start in summer 2023. He <br /> explained a reorganization of the Downtown Cleveland Alliance that will result in the City <br /> working directly with its partner/parent organization Block by Block. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Bullock, President Litten shared his thoughts on <br /> the context of both the administration's and Council's ARPA proposals, noting that many of the <br /> 2 <br />