The use of ARPA funds tabled at recent Scott County Council meeting

By Sharon Estep

The Scott County Council decided to table a decision regarding the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for an interlocal agreement with Jefferson County to purchase chip seal equipment. This agreement, aimed at extending the life of roads in both counties, had already been approved by the Scott County Board of Commissioners. However, during the regular council meeting on September 10, concerns were raised about the specifics of the agreement and its implications.

Council President J.R. Ward expressed the need for more information about how the partnership would function between the two counties and highlighted the limited time available to allocate the remaining $1,188,623.35 in ARPA funds before the December 31 deadline. While the council must commit the funds by the end of the year, the money can be spent until December 31, 2026. Ward also stressed the importance of using the funds for local projects rather than returning them to the federal government.

Council members Lyndi Hughbanks voiced concerns about the long-term viability of the funding, equipment maintenance, and insurance costs. She also hoped that the commissioners had conducted thorough research. Ultimately, the council voted 5-0 to table the decision, with two members absent from the vote.

A joint meeting between the commissioners and council, intended to address these issues, has not yet been scheduled.