Jackson County, MO is considering a plan to spend over $70.4 million in COVID-19 relief funds before the end of the year to avoid losing the money. The proposed plan would split the funds into thirds over the next three years, with $23.5 million being allocated this year to address various county needs such as salaries at the Sheriff’s Office and the Medical Examiner’s Office. Democratic Legislators Megan Marshall, Jalen Anderson, and Charlie Franklin, along with Republican Legislator Jeanie Lauer, are co-sponsoring the ordinance.
Additionally, Democratic Legislator Manny Abarca introduced ordinances to further allocate the remaining funds, including $150,000 for the Metropolitan Arts Council of Greater Kansas City. The National League of Cities reports that Jackson County, MO has obligated 48% of their funding, while Johnson County, KS has already allocated 100% of their funds. ArtsKC Director of Government Relations Branden Haralson expressed frustration at the delay in funding for the arts community. County Executive Frank White expressed support for the proposed plan during a Legislative Meeting on Monday. The plan and additional ordinances will be discussed further at a special meeting on Tuesday evening.
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Photo credit fox4kc.com
