Jones County should engage the public in use of ARPA funds

To the Editor,

     Jones County has received approximately $4 million from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act). The $4 million is one-time revenue and represents approximately 20 percent of the annual Jones County budget. This revenue is intended to reduce long term implications from COVID-19.

     ARPA revenues, according to the National Association of Counties’ website, are to be used to support public health response: Fund COVID-19 mitigation efforts, medical expenses, behavioral healthcare and certain public health and safety staff.

     1. Address negative economic impacts: Respond to economic harms to workers, families, small businesses, and non-profits, or impacted industries and re-hiring of public sector workers.

     2. Replace public sector revenue loss: Use funds to provide government services to mitigate the loss of revenue experienced due to the pandemic.

     3. Premium pay for essential workers: Offer additional support to those who have and will bear the greatest health risks because of their service in critical infrastructure. Funds can be used retroactively back to Jan. 27, 2020.

     4. Water, sewer and broadband infrastructure: Make necessary investments to improve access to clean drinking water, invest in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and provide unserved or underserved locations with new or expanded broadband access.

     According to some reports at a recent (April 19) Jones County Board of Supervisors meeting, the rationale for the use of ARPA funds in Jones County is the provision related to loss of revenue. I am puzzled by this rationale. My perception is Jones County did not lose revenue from property tax or other state revenue sources due to the pandemic. 

     The Board of Supervisors and Jones County government leaders have not provided a significant opportunity for public input related to potential applications of the ARPA revenue. Many other local counties have allowed public input by having links on their webpage or coming to local communities for input.

     Jones County government leaders should be proactive, seek input, educate, and guide local citizens to this vital source of support for the citizens of Jones County. The ARPA funds should be used to close gaps in mental health, broadband, or other essential services which COVID-19 had a negative impact for Jones County citizens. I encourage you to write, call or email Jones County leaders regarding their plans and accountability for use of the ARPA funds.

Respectfully,

Keith Stamp

Monticello, Iowa