Jackson County groups express alarm over potential loss of $70M in federal funding
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Leaders from several organizations urgently call on Jackson County Executive Frank White to take action on $70 million in federal funding.
Hours later White responded to the criticism.
The civil rights organizations and community-based social service providers said they are concerned about the possibility that inaction by county leaders could lead to the forfeiture of $70 million in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act from the federal government.
The Urban Leagues letter said its organizations a plan proposed by the legislature. The letter said the organizations believe the plan is a balanced way to invest the funds in the community.
Those projects include:
- Municipal and school improvements
- Affordable housing
- Childcare expansion
- Crime prevention
- for small businesses
- Senior services grants
According to the Urban Leagues, the idea is to use to $70 million om COVID-era funding and $43.6 million from the county’s general fund to pay for the plan.
The Urban Leagues said the plan does what ARPA funding is supposed to do -- mitigate the social and economic harm caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization’s letter calls out White, claiming his plan doesn’t prioritize people.
The letter claims White’s proposal would spend $45 million on upgrades to facilities. They said $11.5 million is set aside to help people living in the county.
“We’re talking about an opportunity to change lives,” Rev. Dr. Vernon Howard, SCLC-Greater Kansas City, said. “This funding could expand mental health services, provide substance abuse treatment, and bolster public safety initiatives. Investing in people isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do for the long-term health of our community.”
White issued a statement in response to the open letter Monday afternoon.
He said he appreciates the dedication of community leaders and organizations who are advocating for the people who live in Jackson County.
The Jackson County Legislature is expected to discuss the funding during it’s 3 p.m. meeting Monday.
Legislator Manny Abarca also called a special meeting Tuesday evening to address the issue and the looming deadline.
If a decision isn’t made by the end of the year, the funding will be returned to the federal government.
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