Jackson County Legislator Abarca Invites Public to Speak on ARPA Funding

Jackson County Legislator Manuel Abarca IV is inviting residents and local organizations impacted by the American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds to share their views at a public hearing on Monday, November 4th, at 3:00 pm. This hearing, held during the County’s Legislature’s regular session, will provide a vital platform for community members to speak on the allocation of the $70 million in ARPA funds which are intended to provide critical relief and support for those most affected by the pandemic.

Legislator Abarca emphasized the importance of community involvement in this decision-making process.

“This may be the last chance the community has to plea to the county executive and their legislators to use this money for its intended emergency relief purposes and not just pet projects of the executive and his legislative allies-Legislators Lauer, Marshall, and Anderson”, said Abarca.

Legislator Donna Peyton also highlighted the urgency and collaborative effort needed to ensure the funds benefit as many constituents as possible. “This $70 million in grant funds can do so much for so many, and it is incumbent on all of us to work collaboratively to expedite this process so that our community can receive the help as Congress”, she said.

Legislator McGee touched on how long this money has been around and still yet to be spent when there’s so many opportunities to do so. “We have had federal funds for over two years and now waited to the last minute to appropriate them. This administration needs to get a plan and a path forward to work with the legislature to help communities of need in Jackson County. We cannot allow $70 million dollars to go back to Washington DC. Our citizens demand better from our government. It is imperative that the legislature lead and protect our most vulnerable communities.”

Legislator Smith, like many, is frustrated and ready for change. “The County Executive and his “proxies” including the County Counselor continue to intentionally move us toward the return of ARPA funds to the Federal Government. His persistent “my way or the highway” negotiating style already placed our two sports franchises at risk, put thousands of homeowners at risk through unlawful property taxes assessment processes, have placed cities and school districts at risk of returning $240,000,000 to taxpayers and is now about to cost local communities $70M. It’s time for voters to choose “the highway” for Frank & his team”.

Community members, leaders, and representatives from organizations impacted by ARPA fund distribution and allocation are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives on how these funds can best be allocated to support Jackson County recovery and resilience.

The Jackson County Legislature will meet this Monday November 4th at 3:00 pm on the second-floor chambers of the Jackson County Courthouse located at 415 E 12th St, Kansas City, MO 64106.