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March 13, 2023
As the nation observes the two-year anniversary of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Lake County continues its work to allocate nearly $136 million in federal funds to support residents, communities, businesses and governmental services following the COVID-19 pandemic.
To date, Lake County has committed approximately $90 million to address pandemic response needs such as food distribution, housing programs, long-term initiatives to improve water quality, mental health support services, workforce programs, and more.
A summary of some of these important initiatives includes:
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The Lake County Rental Assistance Program
Provides eligible households up to six months of rental assistance. Lake County reopened the application period for this program starting on March 13. More info
- Jobseeker and Small Business Assistance
Lake County Workforce Development has expanded engagement and outreach to small businesses and jobseekers while providing jobseekers with work experience opportunities and occupational training. The goal is to address skill gaps and improve the economic standing of local employers and residents.
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Water Quality, Resiliency and Maintenance
The West Oak Middle School and Oak Terrace project consolidates two water systems into a single community water supply and will replace aging water main infrastructure in the Oak Terrace subdivision. Numerous projects are underway to provide additional capacity and better maintenance at the Lake County Public Works Wastewater Reclamation Facilities.
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Regional Operations and Communications Facility (ROC)
Funds have been allocated toward the construction of a new 911 / Emergency Operations Center in Lake County. The building's design would provide necessary structural protections from severe weather. The ROC also is designed to be a net-zero facility, which means it will produce enough renewable energy to meet its own annual energy consumption requirements and reduce the use of nonrenewable energy.
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Lake County Children's Advocacy Center Mental Health Services
Allows the center to continue offering therapy to children in child abuse situations.
Resident and community-based feedback on priorities and needs is an important component in continuing to develop the County’s spending plan. Residents were able to provide suggestions through several engagement efforts including an online survey, in-person and virtual public input sessions.
"Receiving the input from residents, businesses and community partners has been critical in understanding the challenges they continue to face following the pandemic," said County Board Chair Sandy Hart. "Their feedback is crucial as we develop a strategy for long-term growth."
In 2022, the County opened an application period to accept program and service requests from nonprofit and not-for profit organizations and local units of government to aid in the response and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Special Committee on COVID-19 Pandemic Recovery and Investment is evaluating a prioritized list of projects and programs for consideration and funding. A list of recommended projects will be provided to the Committee in the next couple of months for potential approval. All of the County’s ARPA funds must be appropriated by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.
"Lake County continues to build our long-term, community-driven spending plan for these American Rescue Plan funds. Because of our investments in our people, our communities and vital services, Lake County has recovered stronger and better prepared for the future. As we complete this process, we will continue to invest in our people and transformative projects that impact and strengthen our communities. " said Paul Frank, chair of the Financial and Administrative Special Committee on ARPA.
Learn more about ARPA
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Contact
Tammy Chatman
Chief Communications Officer
Email
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