Sudget and Finance SUBSTITUTE OFFERED AS AN AMENDMENT September 27, 2021 g-S Requested by the Department of Finance Holland, mak, Wend, Offered by MAYOR HORRIGAN and PRESIDENT SOMMERVILLE OILY ORDINANCE NO. _ QHA__-2021, authorizing Mayor Horrigan or his designee to accept, encumber, and expend funds allocated by the U.S. Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund in the areas of community and youth violence prevention, housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, parks and public spaces, access to healthcare and social services, and budget stabilization; authorizing the Director of Finance or his designee to establish the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Fund and related actions; all in order to turn the tide on the COVID-19 pandemic, assist Akron residents hardest hit by the resulting economic and social crises, prevent direct rate or tax increases on Akron residents and workers, create and maintain jobs and small businesses, improve public spaces and housing conditions in Akron neighborhoods, curb the rise in homicides, invest in the lives of Akron youth at greatest risk of violence, and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery for the entire Akron community; and declaring an emergency. WHEREAS, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was passed by Congress on March 10, 2021, and signed into law on March 11, 2021; and WHEREAS, ARPA established the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CSLFR Fund), and authorized the United States Department of the Treasury (U.S. Treasury) to make payments from the CSLFR Fund to states and eligible units of local government; and WHEREAS, the U.S. Treasury will make total payment of approximately $145,337,626 to the City of Akron, by virtue of 2 equal/approximately equal installment payments made respectively in 2021 and 2022, in order to address the COVID-19 public health emergency and its negative economic impacts (ARPA Funds); and WHEREAS, the City will establish a separate special revenue fund to ensure that the City’s ARPA Funds are appropriated and expended to support costs associated with the delivery of critical City services related to the COVID-19 response and to support investments in the Akron community; and WHEREAS, these funds will be spent on areas of most urgent need, including community and youth violence prevention, housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, parks and public spaces, access to healtheare and social services, and budget stabilization, all in accordance with the federal guidelines established by the U.S. Treasury; andWHEREAS, the City has an aging housing stock with the median date of construction for housing units in the City being 1952, and 64% of the units being built prior to 1960; and WHEREAS, more must be done to keep both homeowners and renters in their homes, and to make those homes safe and healthy; and WHEREAS, approximately one-quarter of the City’s housing is in very good repair, while another one-quarter is extremely distressed, and the remaining 50% characterized as being ata tipping point; and WHEREAS, Akron is consistently ranked among the lowest cost housing markets in the country, yet rents have risen sharply in the last two decades, while local wages have remained stagnant and Akron’s eviction rate is the highest in Ohio and 24th highest in the entire nation; and WHEREAS, the City has a responsibility to maintain water infrastructure for Akron residents and water customers while helping to offset the massive burden of the EPA-mandated sanitary sewer consent decree that has placed additional costs on Akron’s utility ratepayers; and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic placed extraordinary strain on Akron’s small. businesses that are still trying to recover from the financial impact of lost revenue; and WHEREAS, the detrimental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were often even more pronounced among communities of color, where small business owners and workers also had to cope with their communities’ higher incidence of serious COVID-19 complications; and WHEREAS, small and local businesses will be the key to reviving and creating livable- wage jobs for Akron residents; and WHEREAS, Akron lost 50 lives to homicide in 2020, making it the deadliest year in the past decade in terms of murder, and Akron has lost 38 lives so far in 2021 to violence, with all but two involving a gun; and WHEREAS, in order to combat and address the root causes of violence, it is imperative to invest in those communities and youth most at risk for violence - also addressing the systemic lack of resources, mentoring, recreational opportunities or facilities, and economic opportunity in those communities and persons; and WHEREAS, Akron residents have consistently expressed a need and desire for more and better public parks and public spaces that would increase recreational and entertainment opportunities across the City, a need that has only been amplified by the increased demand on outdoor and hybrid gathering places during times of social distancing; andWHEREAS, the City has a responsibility to invest in safe and healthy public spaces for all Akron residents to enjoy; and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic downturn have threatened the strength of City revenue sources and reserves, which must be shored up in order to maintain fiscal stability; and WHEREAS, the use of ARPA Funds is subject to the City’s annual budgeting process, and no ARPA Funds will be expended unless and until they are budgeted; and WHEREAS, the City is committed to utilizing the ARPA Funds in a manner fully transparent and accessible to the public, and Council will continue to have an active role in the expenditure of these funds through: leadership's participation in working group meetings; engagement with the public at town hall meetings or otherwise; continuing and direct access to the City’s expert consultants; and continuing public presentations regarding specific ARPA-related projects; and WHEREAS, there is significant government oversight and regulation governing the use of ARPA Funds, which are subject to numerous federal mandates from the U.S. Department of Treasury, and state and federal audits; and WHEREAS, Akron City Council has determined that acceptance and expenditure of the ARPA Funds, in keeping with the City’s stated priorities and in accordance with federal guidelines, is in the best interests, and furthers the health, safety, and welfare, of the citizens of Akron. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED by the Council of the City of Akron: Section 1. That Mayor Horrigan or his designee be, and is hereby, authorized to accept, ‘encumber, and expend all funds allocated and/or directed to the City of Akron by the U.S. Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (or related funds). Section 2. That the Director of Finance or his designee be, and is hereby, authorized to establish Fund FD22440 American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), as well as any additional funds/sub-funds or accounts, as may be necessary or incidental to the appropriation, encumbrance, and/or expenditure of ARPA Funds (Fund FD22440). Section3. That any interest accruing to Fund FD22440 may be transferred, appropriated, encumbered, and expended for purposes consistent with the intent of this ordinance, and as allowed by the U.S. Treasury. All investment earings associated with the ARPA Funds and/or Fund FD22440 are also hereby appropriated and permitted to be expended consistent with and/or for the purposes of complying with federal requirements pertaining to investment earnings.Section4. That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to expend ARPA Funds for the purposes of housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, community and youth violence prevention, parks and public facilities, and City IT and budget stabilization; and for such other purposes incidental to the foregoing priorities, including administrative fees and costs. Section 5. That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to transfer all ARPA Funds between and among any funds, sub-funds, and accounts, comprising or related to Fund FD22440, as necessary to allow for the posting of prior and future expenses, not to exceed the casiv/funds available in Fund FD22440 as a whole. Section6. That, subject to future budget ordinances and/or budget amendments as set forth in the Charter, any future deposits of ARPA Funds the City may receive from the U.S. Treasury are hereby deemed appropriated, and are permitted to be expended in a manner consistent with applicable federal guidelines and regulations, the City of Akron Charter, and other applicable law. Section 7, That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to process any expenditure corrections within Fund FD22440, and between Fund FD22440 and other City funds/accounts, in order to accurately post financial data related to Fund FD22440. Section 8. That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to make any accounting changes to revise the funding source for all contracts, or contract modifications, associated with this ordinance. Section 9. That the Mayor, Director of Finance, Director of Law, the Director of Planning and Urban Development, the Deputy Mayor for Integrated Development, the Director of Public Service, or their designees, be and are hereby authorized to execute, certify, and/or furnish other such documents and take all other actions, including entering into separate agreements, as are necessary or incidental to further the acceptance, appropriation, and expenditure of the ARPA Funds referred to in Sections 1 through 8 of this ordinance, and/or which are incidental to carrying out the purposes of this ordinance. Section 10, That this ordinance is hereby declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, safety and welfare for the reason that itis immediately necessary to accept, encumber, appropriate, and expend these funds from the USS. Treasury at the earliest possible time in order to ameliorate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic within the City of Akron, and provided this ordinance receives the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the members elected or appointed to Council, it shall take effect and be in forceimmediately upon its passage and approval by the Mayor; otherwise, it shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time allowed by law. Passed: ¥ Mf FOL X OK LE Nin 2 Clerk of Council (Reina) (2 lable Approved Z Yee 2021 MAYOR ~ 130 1202aA BUDGET & FINANCE September 27, 2021 - Requested by the Department of Finance Offered by MAYOR HORRIGAN and PRESIDENT SOMMERVILLE ORDINANCE NO. -2021, authorizing Mayor Horrigan or his designee to ‘accept, encumber, and expend funds allocated by the U.S. Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund in the areas of community and youth violence prevention, housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, parks and public spaces, access to healthcare and social services, and budget stabilization; authorizing the Director of Finance or his designee to establish the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Fund and related actions; all in order to turn the tide on the COVID-19 pandemic, assist Akron residents hardest hit by the resulting economic and social crises, prevent direct rate or tax increases on Akron residents and workers, create and maintain jobs and small businesses, improve public spaces and housing conditions in Akron neighborhoods, curb the rise in homicides, invest in the lives of Akron youth at greatest risk of violence, and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery for the entire Akron community; and declaring an emergency. WHEREAS, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was passed by Congress on March 10, 2021, and signed into law on March 11, 2021; and WHEREAS, ARPA established the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CSLFR Fund), and authorized the United States Department of the Treasury (U.S. Treasury) to make payments from the CSLFR Fund to states and eligible units of local government; and WHEREAS, the U.S. Treasury will make total payment of approximately $145,337,626 to the City of Akron, by virtue of 2 equal/approximately equal installment payments made respectively in 2021 and 2022, in order to address the COVID-19 public health emergency and its negative economic impacts (ARPA Funds); and WHEREAS, the City will establish a separate special revenue fund to ensure that the City’s ARPA Funds are appropriated and expended to support costs associated with the delivery of critical City services related to the COVID-19 response and to support investments in the Akron community; and WHEREAS, these funds will be spent on areas of most urgent need, including community and youth violence prevention, housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, parks and public spaces, access to healthcare and social services, and budget stabilization, all in accordance with the federal guidelines established by the U.S. Treasury; and WHEREAS, the City has an aging housing stock with the median date of construction for housing units in the City being 1952, and 64% of the units being built prior to 1960; andWHEREAS, more must be done to keep both homeowners and renters in their homes, and to make those homes safe and healthy; and WHEREAS, approximately one-quarter of the City’s housing is in very good repair, while another one-quarter is extremely distressed, and the remaining 50% characterized as being ata tipping point; and WHEREAS, Akron is consistently ranked among the lowest cost housing markets in the country, yet rents have risen sharply in the last two decades, while local wages have remained. stagnant and Akron’s eviction rate is the highest in Ohio and 24th highest in the entire nation; and WHEREAS, the City has a responsibility to maintain water infrastructure for Akron residents and water customers while helping to offset the massive burden of the EPA-mandated sanitary sewer consent decree that has placed additional costs on Akron’s utility ratepayers, and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic placed extraordinary strain on Akron’s small businesses that are still trying to recover from the financial impact of lost revenue; and WHEREAS, the detrimental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were often even more pronounced among communities of color, where small business owners and workers also had to cope with their communities’ higher incidence of serious COVID-19 complications; and WHEREAS, small and local businesses will be the key to reviving and creating livable- wage jobs for Akron residents; and WHEREAS, Akron lost 50 lives to homicide in 2020, making it the deadliest year in the past decade in terms of murder, and Akron has lost 38 lives so far in 2021 to violence, with all ‘but two involving a gun; and WHEREAS, in order to combat and address the root causes of violence, itis imperative to invest in those communities and youth most at risk for violence - also addressing the systemic lack of resources, mentoring, recreational opportunities or facilities, and economic opportunity in those communities and persons; and WHEREAS, Akron residents have consistently expressed a need and desire for more and better public parks and public spaces that would increase recreational and entertainment opportunities across the City, a need that has only been amplified by the increased demand on outdoor and hybrid gathering places during times of social distancing; and WHEREAS, the City has a responsibility to invest in safe and healthy public spaces for all Akron residents to enjoy; and WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic downturn have threatened the strength of City revenue sources and reserves, which must be shored up in order to maintain fiscal stability; andWHEREAS, Akron City Council has determined that acceptance and expenditure of the ARPA Funds, in keeping with the City’s stated priorities, is in the best interests, and furthers the health, safety, and welfare, of the citizens of Akron. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED by the Council of the City of Akron: Section 1, That Mayor Horrigan or his designee be, and is hereby, authorized to accept, encumber, and expend all funds allocated and/or directed to the City of Akron by the U.S. Treasury under the American Rescue Plan Act from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (or related funds). Section2. That the Director of Finance or his designee be, and is hereby, authorized to establish Fund FD22440 American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), as well as any additional funds/sub-funds or accounts, as may be necessary or incidental to the appropriation, encumbrance, and/or expenditure of ARPA Funds (Fund FD22440). Section3, That any interest accruing to Fund FD22440 may be transferred, appropriated, encumbered, and expended for purposes consistent with the intent of this ordinance, and as allowed by the U.S. Treasury. All investment earnings associated with the ARPA Funds and/or Fund FD2240 are also hereby appropriated and permitted to be expended consistent with and/or for the purposes of complying with federal requirements pertaining to investment earnings. Section 4, That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to expend ARPA Funds for the purposes of housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, ‘community and youth violence prevention, parks and public facilities, and City IT and budget stabilization; and for such other purposes incidental to the foregoing priorities, including administrative fees and costs. Section 5, That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to transfer all ARPA Funds between and among any funds, sub-funds, and accounts, comprising or related to Fund FD22440, as necessary to allow for the posting of prior and future expenses, not to exceed the cash/funds available in Fund FD22440 as a whole. Section 6, That any future deposits of ARPA Funds, as the City may receive from the U,S. Treasury, are hereby deemed appropriated, without further action of this Council, and are permitted to be expended for any purpose consistent with this ordinance. Section 7, That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to process any expenditure corrections within Fund FD22440, and between Fund FD22440 and other City funds/accounts, in order to accurately post financial data related to Fund FD22440. Section 8. That the Director of Finance or his designee is hereby authorized to make any accounting changes to revise the funding source for all contracts, or contract modifications, associated with this ordinance.Section9, _ That the Mayor, Direotor of Finance, Director of Law, the Director of Planning and Urban Development, the Deputy Mayor for Integrated Development, the Director of Public Service, or their designees, be and are hereby authorized to execute, certify, and/or furnish other such documents and take all other actions, including entering into separate agreements, a3 are necessary or incidental to further the acceptance, appropriation, and expenditure of the ARPA Funds referred to in Sections 1 through 8 of this ordinance, and/or which are incidental to carrying out the purposes of this ordinance. Section 10. That this ordinance is hereby declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the immediate preservation of public peace, health, safety and welfare for the reason that itis immediately necessary to accept, encumber, appropriate, and expend these funds from the US. Treasury at the earliest possible time in order to ameliorate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic within the City of Akron, and provided this ordinance receives the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the members elected or appointed to Council, it shall take effect and be in force immediately upon its passage and approval by the Mayor; otherwise, it shall take effect and be in force at the earliest time allowed by law. 2021 Passed: Clerk of Council President of Council Approved 2021 MAYORAkron City Council - Uniform Council Report (UCR) PART |= General Information Subject of Requested Legislation: ‘To accept and exoend funds allocated by the U.S. Treasury under the American Resue Plan Act from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund DepartmentDivision:_Mayor's Office and Department of Finance Requestor: Shelley Goodrich _ Phone/Ext:_x2316 If applicable, previous legislation on this subject (reference by ordinance/resolution number) NA Clipesiobiectie of Legislation: recovery, community and youth violence prevention, parks and pubic Taclties, and budge stablizaton PART l= Financ Does this Legislation directly involve the expenditure of funds? Yes [JNO ‘Was this expenditure budgeted for in the current operating budget? Ces NO If YES," describe how the budgeted amount for the project compares to the actual or estimated costs: ARPA funds were not anticipated or budgeted. Amendment to the existing budget ordinance will be made for ‘expenditures in year 2021. Expenditures of ARPA funds beyond 2021 will be budgeted in future budget ‘ordinances. City Expenditures City Receipts Budgeted Costs Estimate of Costs City Receipt of Funds Amount: ‘Amount: ‘Amount: |S 145,337 626.00 Fund: Fund: Fund: |F022440 (NEW) Org: Org: ‘Acct ‘Acct: ‘Amount: ‘Other Consideration Fund: | 9 1 | Acct: ‘Acet Total expenditure (if applicable): $ 145,337,626 Total receipts (if applicable): $ 145,337,626 PART Ill = DETAILED INFORMATION: Attach detailed information/documentation, as described in UCR Instruction Sheet. ‘Akron City Counc ‘Council Rule 6.7 - Uniform Report Form Effective: Janusry 20209/28/2021 ‘Ai Guidehouse City of Akron American Rescue Plan Act State and Local Fiscal Relief Fund City Council Presentation September 27,2021 Our Guidehouse Team With You Today Providing ongoing support and subject matter expertise a o bove wast cay ort Director Manager 4 Q PA sheron Broun aciceia acrdome sonst Cachone eta Aoriserane enc Se9/28/2021 Guidehouse at a glance — Building Trust in Society Public Sector Bringing the power of our federal, state, and local disaster recovery, grants management, ‘and economic revitalization practices... Financial Advisory Meso~em seer w Simm! 6a 50%, : 10,000+ a ee i im om Our Current COVID-19 Experience wo 2. City Governments @® 42 ‘representing 400+ hospitals9/28/2021 Our Approach A tailored approach for the City of Akron rm Office Design Department Projects Project Implementation IV. Ongoing Monitoring and “Tracking V.Community Engagement Aosiierane Community Engagement The City of Akron is committed to taking a deliberate approach to engaging and sharing information with residents regarding ARPA-SLFRF budget priorities a aaa aa a Pi reer mee a reco ema resients Panring ross, na Fem es) : emer es Project Spending Dashboard Commuricatewtat project are beng funded and where dallas are being spent. | fetcarales emery ten mcs Treasure le fr SUF. tt aa tweugh eee sao : f Targeted Efforts to Gather Input Prvie aio opportune osha ifomaton aed gather pao ne rites ond ftom Residents Regarding elgbie projects. Budget Proctie Racal Equity Framework aoe Aeuidorune ao tentemie-tominProposed Governance Structure Aeuidereice stn etna Gaining perspectives and priorities for the advancement of the City of Akron 9/28/2021 Key Activities of ARPA Management Cost cere} een Peek ot fatter’ ir) + United approach to + Consolidate cost to recovery attindsihe ensure a Bubs pate, andnet- ‘Stable, compliant focproft sects, payment racking ‘ogeher ‘mechani + Maximize funding = Bestin class Curent avalabie and procurement and poston rojas for program management ‘ture und rm poles Federa/@iate sources enone value of ‘money Aouisoruse tne neo and icin) + Coornation of compliance program totoster speed of spending he | regating rik9/28/2021 Policy Overview Eligibility Framework Funding directly addresses a negative impact of the COVID-19 public health emergency 4) Negative Impact: dently the harmful effect of COVID-19 that the activity or expense wall address. Nature of harm: Assess the causal or ‘compounding connection to COVID-19. = Nature of harm: Assess the disproportionate Impact on distressed sectors or populations. 2) Respond to Impact: Determine how to ‘demonstrate the activity or expense produces the expected outcome(s) to address and respond to the harm caused by COVID-19. Timeframe *Costs incurred on or after March 3, 2021, Unless otherwise stated in the guidance +Must be obligated by December 31, 2024 +Expended by December 31, 2026 ‘SLFRF awards are generally subject to the requirements set forth in Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), This guidance outlines a recipient's, ‘compliance responsibities as they relate to procurement, internal controls, allowable costs, ‘subrecipient monitoring, and more. Recipients are directed to report how funds were used to prioritize equity.9/28/2021 Eligible Uses Respond tothe ‘Support the Pubic Premium Pay for tnvestmonts in Negative Revenue Loss Health Response econaetie im Essential Workers Infrastructure pn — -_ ot - Kotenteaieny Address economic harm Provide premium pay to Provide goverment (Moet the critical need for cee ‘resulting from or iigible services to the extent of ‘investments and -— ‘exacerbated by the performing essential “reduction in revenue Improvements to existing ‘Public health emergency Work during the COVID- de 1 ‘infrastructure n water, Reporting RequireReporting Requirements Key dates and timeframes ~ Quarry 1 By October 31,2024 and 90 dys ater heen ot (uaner erestor 9/28/20219/28/2021 Examples of Projects Deemed Eligible & Moving Forward” Appendix9/28/2021 Violence Prevention ms. Public Utility Investments : a.Parks & Public Places = 9/28/2021 ate Housing Sonvice to Disproporianaiely Impacted Communitios Ds Re be Sg ST RT Aesidsrime 109/28/2021 ‘Small Business Growth ‘Negative Economie Impacts Per 1ARPA INFORMATION SUMMARY ‘The purpose of the ARPA appropriating legislation is to generally authorize the acceptance and expenditure of federal funds derived from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), including those funds currently on-hand, those funds to be received in 2022, and interest that may accrue. © The ARPA funding was designed by Congress to be a rapid, impactful infusion of funds to address urgent needs created or exasperated by the COVID-19 pandemic, building on the impact of the CARES funding previously distributed. The City Council has consistently passed ordinances generally authorizing the acceptance and expenditure of other federal funds (both annual and specific one- time funding) in a similar manner. © Examples include: CDBG, ESG, and CARES Act funds This broad authorization is consistent with Council's duties and roles under the City of Akron Charter. © Council has no affirmative obligation or authority to administer or direct ARPA funds to specific recipients or programs o Administration of funds is solely vested with the Mayor, as carried out by the City administration. © City Council would not relegate or shirk any duty under the Charter, Council Rules, or any other applicable law by passing the ARPA legislation as introduced. Rather, Council would be complying with the laws and its own precedent. ‘The passage of this general authorization legislation is not only consistent with Akron’s past practices, but also with other the practice of other municipalities. For example, Columbus passed an ordinance authorizing the broad expenditure of ARPA funds in a manner akin to Akron’s ordinance. As it does with all City funds, City Council will engage in the budgeting process with respect to ARPA funds, set forth in the Charter. © Allfunds will be brought to Council as part of the City's annual budgeting process, including any such amendments as required during the budget period. © ARPA funds will not be expended unless and until they are budgetedThis authorization process has been implemented for decades as a best practice to ensure an efficient and streamlined process for use of federal funds. ©. Like CARES funding, if ARPA funds are not appropriated and spent efficiently, legally and within specified timeframes, the City runs the risk of losing the funds and sending them back to the federal government, or worse, using local dollars to repay funds that were expended inappropriately. In addition to the budgeting process, there is significant collaboration regarding the funds, and Council and the general public will continue to play an active role in how the funds are spent. © City Council leadership has an active role with the leadership participating in the ARPA working group. ‘© In keeping with this active role, City Council can engage with and gain useful insight from stakeholders by virtue of town hall meetings aimed at identify qualifying needs in the community. © Administration has committed, in open public meetings, to continue to provide Council with access to the City’s expert ARPA consultant, and to bring presentations about specific projects back to Council to keep members up to date. ©. The City has committed to the creation of a public, regularly-updated portal where any member of the public can review how the funds are spent and provide feedback As with other federal funds, there is significant oversight and transparency regarding the use of ARPA funds. © Allfunds must comply with federal mandates and ARPA requirements, issued by the U.S. Treasury in the form of voluminous guidance. © Guidehouse, a preeminent expert in compliance, will ensure all funds are used in accordance with ARPA. © Allfunds are subject to both state and federal audit and to potential clawback if used inappropriatelyCity of Akron Commits To Uniquely Transparent, Impactful, and Collaborative Process to Spend Federal ARPA Funds Participation by Citizens and Community Organizations: ‘© Engage in any one of 12 public engagement sessions ‘© Participate in either of two virtual public informational sessions scheduled for October 28", 2021 at 12:00 noon or 6:00 p.m. to learn more about ARPA funding, eligible uses, and priority areas of investment. For more information www.akronohio.gov /ARPA or click here. © Attend one of the 10 ward meetings where ARPA uses and processes will be discussed and project ideas can be submitted. © Utilize specially created webpage and portal available at www.akronohio.gov/ARPA to: © submit feedback on proposed projects and additional areas of need (available now) © take advantage of new or enhanced services or assistance programs, once funds are made available © submit applications for funding on behalf of community organizations (with active non-profit status), once funds are available and applications go live (© track all City spending of ARPA funds and review reports © Continue to engage in community-driven processes related to investments in City parks, community violence reduction, and other initiatives. Participation by Legislature — Akron City Council: Pursuant to the Akron City Charter and Code, City precedent and procedure, and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations: ‘* Appropriate funding to make it eligible to be spent in Akron neighborhoods. ‘Participate in six initial weekly presentations where each of the priority areas of investment will be discussed in more detail, including projects that are ready to take the next step. The meetings will occur through the committee structure according to the tentative schedule below: © October 25 — Youth and Community Violence November 1 — Public Utilities November 8 ~ Parks and Public Spaces November 15 — Small Businesses November 22— Housing November 29 — Budget Stabilization December — 6 - Access to Healthcare & Social Services 000000Budget all funds on an annual basis through the operating budget process. ARPA funds will be identified within the appropriate department for expenditure, in accordance with the structure of the City of Akron operating budget. Review and approve the capital budget, including any ARPA-funded capital projects. Review and vote on all individual legislation that comes before Council—in the normal course of business and in accordance with Charter Section 95 and other applicable law—including ordinances where ARPA is a source of funding. Example: authorizing a contract for the renovation of a community center after publicly advertising for bids. Schedule, in collaboration with Sara Biviano, ward meetings where ARPA uses and processes will be discussed and project ideas can be submitted. Submit proposed project ideas through portal on City website, so proposals can be vetted for compliance with federal guidelines as well as equity, sustainability, and impact. (www.akronohio.gov/ARPA) Council members should select “Local Government Entity” when identifying who they represent. Review all quarterly reports and participate in ongoing ARPA presentations where the City administration will discuss project and service updates. Provide routine feedback to City Administration through Council leadership (President Sommerville, Vice-President Fusco, and Pro-Tem Freeman), who will represent Council in working group meetings where more detailed administrative matters are managed regarding program structures, timeframes, etc. Review and provide feedback on ARPA updates provided by Council Chief of Staff. Exercise all oversight powers set forth in the Akron Charter. Participation by Executive - Mayor Horrigan’s Administration Pursuant to the Akron City Charter and Code, City precedent and procedure, and all applicable state and federal laws and regulations: ‘Administer ARPA funds in the areas of community and youth violence prevention, housing, public utility support, local economic recovery, parks and public spaces, access to healthcare and social services, and budget stabilization, all in accordance with the federal guidelines established by the U.S. Treasury. ‘©. Enter into agreements with community organizations to provide Violence Prevention services including mentoring, intervention, etc. following a transparent and open grant process © Create and execute housing rehabilitation and down payment assistance je to assist both current and prospective homeowners remain in © Invest in parks and public spaces (including Summit Lake, Lock 3, and various City community centers) © Provide supportive funding to neighborhood CDCs based on a transparent and open grant process(© Invest in essential City infrastructure including replacing lead service lines and water mains throughout the City © Administer Akron Cares program and Minor Plumbing Repairs Grant Program to help Akron water/utility customers © Implement public safety initiatives targeted at neighborhoods impacted by increased violence. © Utilize ARPA funds to replace lost revenue and stabilize City finances Comply with all federal regulations, guidelines, and reporting requirements with assistance of expert consulting organization, Guidehouse. Report regularly to Akron City Council and Akron community regarding status of projects/spending, availability of services within the community, and positive impact.Biviano, Sara From: Biviano, Sara Sent: Monday, October 4, 2021 8:41 AM To: _PDI_CityCouneil Subject: FW: Follow-up questions regarding 9/27/21 Proposed Ordinance 2A Good morning Council members! Please see below from Councilwoman Holland for your information; this email is being forwarded at her request to show the timing and questions she submitted. Thank you! Sara R. Biviano, CMC Acting Clerk of Council Akzon City Council 330-375-2256 Begin forwarded message: From: "Ward 1 (Holland, Nancy)" Date: September 28, 2021 at 5:52:00 PM EDT To: "Goodrich, Shelley" , "Belfance, Eve" , “Angeloni, Brian" Ce: "Ward 9 (Mike Freeman)" , "Ward 8 (Shammas Malik)” , "Ward 3 (Margo Sommerville)" , "Williams, Joan” , "Nischt, Ellen" Subject: Follow-up questions regarding 9/27/21 Proposed Ordinance 2A Dear Ms. Goodrich, Director Belfance, and all: |1am writing to follow up on my questions posed in the Budget Committee of Akron City Council, on Monday, September 27, 2021, regarding proposed Ordinance "2A.” Please consider this to be both a request for practical guidance, and a request for an email response that can be shared with my Akron City Councit colleagues. | am copying Budget Committee Chair Freeman, as well as Councilman Malik, because | believe they had questions about the intent and potential effect of Ordinance 2A, too, In the UCR for the subject legislation, the stated purpose is to “accept and expend funds allocated under the American Rescue Plan Act...” Section 4 of the ordinance authorizes expenditures for certain general purposes, including administrative fees and costs; Section 5 allows for payment of past and future expenses; and Section 6 provides that further ARPA deposits are “hereby deemed appropriated, without further action of [City] Council, and are to be permitted to be expended for any purpose consistent with this ordinance.” As Lexpressed during the Budget Committee meeting, my reading of the referenced portions of the proposed legislation leads to the conclusion that the ordinance provides pre-approval by City Council of 1all ARPA spending decisions. The apparent effect of Section 5 of the ordinance would further appear to permit payment of past expenditures determined- other than by Council deliberation or approval- to fit within ARPA parameters. If the practical intention behind the legislation was only to accept the ‘ARPA funds, why were the additional sections- particularly Sections 4, 5 and 6- included in the Ordinance? If the subject legislation is passed in its current form, what additional action (specifically, by City Council) would need to be taken before a project is selected and money is disbursed? It appears ‘that while specific programs or line items would appear in the capital and operating budgets, the authority required to disburse those funds will have already been obtained, through passage of the ordinance at issue. ‘Thank you in advance for your assistance in this matter. My sole concern is that meet my responsibilities, professionally and to the public. Very truly yours, Nancy L. Holland Ward 1 Councilwoman City of Akron 7 330-238-6178Biviano, Sara Fro Fran Wilson Sent: Monday, October 4, 2021 12:35 PM To: Biviano, Sara Ce: Ward 1 (Holland, Nancy); Ward 3 (Margo Sommerville); Ward 4 (Russel Neal; Ward 9 (ike Freeman) Subject: [ExternalVoicing Concern / ARPA Disbursement. Dear Councilors and Clerk, Td like to briefly bring forward community concern over the legislation concerning the some $145 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and its intended utility, brought by the Mayor and Council President. The legislation, from when I viewed it this morning, October 4th, read with two key purposes: (1) to accept ARPA funding, and (2) to give autonomy to the mayor's office to expend the budgeted ARPA funds without further Council approval. With due respect to the hard work and best wishes of the Mayor and Council President, while this legislation describes very broad parameters of use — specifically housing, public utility support, economic recovery, community and youth violence prevention, parks and facilities, and IT and budget stabilization — I think it would be wholesomely unwise for Council to pass said legislation without first removing what some neighbors are calling the mayor’s “blank check” clauses. T understand the urgency for this money and respect the offices putting forward this legislation, but I do not see why Council should have to make such a precedent — namely, to write a “blank check” of hundreds of millions of dollars with (1) no public input and (2) no clear plan for disbursement. It makes me question is setting this precedent a fiscally healthy or responsible way to approach future federal funding projects? Task that Council either tables this legislation or removes the clauses concerning the Mayor's unfettered disbursement of funds until the Mayor, or Council's office, has a more robust plan for ARPA funds. ‘Thank you for your time. @Clerk — If possible, I ask that this email be filed into the meeting minutes, as I am unable to attend the Council meeting this evening to give public comment. In Community, Fran Wilson Ward 1 Resident ‘This emai originated outside ofthe organization. Do not cck Inks orepen stachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content safeScott Thanasiu Monday, October 4, 2021 6:15 PM Public Comments (Akron City Council) [External]Fwd: on the matter of ARPA public-comment-form-fillable.pdf; ATTOOOO1.htm Dear Members of Council, While I don't have access to a printer or an editable version of this document, by which to request time to speak at tonight's City Council meeting, I respectfully request that this email be read aloud at the meeting and submitted into the minutes for the record: urge my representatives, Donnie Kammer, and the At-Large members of the Council, as well as those of the city's respective wards, to cast their votes, regarding ARPA, in such a manner as will facilitate sufficient time and due consideration to carefully and critically review all proposals put forth by the incumbent administration(s) and any other parties, with regard to allocation for expenditure of all ARPA funds. Please give careful and due diligence to the use of these funds - a once in a generation opportunity to significantly move needles that are indicative of the quality of life and living, for generations of Akronites - prior to authorizing any immediate or future discretion and allocation of these funds With all due respect, Scott Thanasiu Scott he/him/his (currently reading - Becoming by Michelle Obama) Begin forwarded message: From: Scott Thanasiu Date: October 4, 2021 at 18:13:29 EDT To: publiccomment@akron.chio.gov Subject: on the matter of ARPA Dear Members of Council, While I don't have access to a printer or an editable version of this document, by which to request time to speak at tonight's City Council meeting, I respectfully request that this email be read aloud at the meeting and submitted into the minutes for the record: urge my representatives, Donnie Kammer, and the At-Large members of the Council, as well as those of the city's respective wards, to cast their votes, regarding ARPA, in such a manner as will facilitate sufficient time and due consideration to carefully and critically review all proposals put forth by the incumbent administration(s) and any other parties, with regard to allocation for 1expenditure of all ARPA funds. Please give careful and due diligence to the use of these funds - a once in a generation ‘opportunity to significantly move needles that are indicative of the quality of life and living, for generations of Akronites - prior to authorizing any immediate or future diseretion and allocation of these funds. With all due respect, Scott Thanasiu https://www.akroncitycouneil.org/media/2677/public-comment-form- fillable.pdf?fbelid=IwAR3LComxkQulefF FiloKeJtMwCpk47zol.G7H787 v4 levN92RGLhmJiZ. pY8A, ‘This emal originated! ausie ofthe organization. Do na ck rks er open attachments unless you recognize the sender ae now the Conteris eae.Biviano, Sara Robert Hoch Monday, October 18, 2021 12:08 AM Mayor ppdl_couneil Subject: {ExternallFw: Stimulus Money | had sent this to council and felt | should forward to Mayor's office as well since this is where all the direction is coming from. This is too much to go too fast on and there is time to make it all work for where it will do the most for our city. Bob Hoch ——- Forwarded Message —- From: Robert Hoch 1d|_council@akronohio.gov Friday, October 15, 2021, 11:02:45 AM EDT Subject: Stimulus Money This is something very important to the city and each community. Taking the minimal line of holding a zoom meeting and being able to shut it down after one hour which will allow for minimal interaction is a slap to every resident. | hope council is more responsive and will hold community meetings with administration members on hand. This, again, is so very important and please - council - do not ram this through without looking at the total spending and how it will help the entire city. Make sure, and with notation, that any unused funds do not return to the General Fund without specific designations for all Akron’s communities. We need to get a better start on rebuilding the neighborhoods neglected instead of establishing new neighborhoods in areas that will serve us and future generations with environmental protection Possibly more money moved in that direction instead. Thank you, Bob Hoch This ema orgnated oxtside of tho organization. Do not cick inks or open atlachments unless you recognize the sander and know the content safe,Biviano, Sat From: Reimer, Holly Sent: Monday, October 18, 2021 8:52 AM To: dl council Subject: FW: [External] Vicki Armstrong: letter for Council memberrs Forwarding the letter below. From: V. J. Armstrong [mailto:armstrongpromoarts@yahoo.com] Sent: Monday, October 18, 2021 8:48 AM To: Reimer, Holly Subject: [External] Vicki Armstrong: letter for Council memberrs Re: $145 Million of ARPA spending Dear Council Member In today's paper (10/16/21) a short notice stated that the Mayor and Council Leadership will be holding two informational ‘ZOOM meetings on their plans for these funds. While | understand the Mayor's desire to rush out and spend the money ‘on his proposed projects, itis my firm belief that hurrying up the process is antithetical to the public's right to be involved in the decisions, Two ZOOM meetings publicized in a small notice in the Beacon Journal is totally inadequate notice. Most households do not even take the paper anymore and many do not have the ability to participate in a ZOOM meeting. | | urge every member of Council to vote against making any of these vitally important budget decisions unti they can ‘engage with their constituents through mailings, in-person meetings or virtually to get their voices heard. Surely, there is time and money that can be used to do this; the deadiine to start projects is not until 2024. Council needs to retain control Of the budget for all projects and needs to represent their constituents’ needs as well as the city's as a whole. Ceding control to an outside consulting firm for oversight and advice on spending the money with no explicit cap on spending is another thing that all of Council should be against You have the power over the budget and to agree to such a contract without further discussion is uncalled for and irresponsible. Itis not disloyal to the mayor to question proposals or to make proposals of your own after consulting the citizens. tis disloyal to the people who elected you to disregard their voices and to just go along to get along. There has been far too much of that for too many years and our neighborhoods and civic engagement have suffered greatly Take the time to do your job. You owe nothing less to the citizens of Akron. Vicki zerkel Armstrong 700 wellesiey ave. Arkon, OH 44303 330-671-7854 armstrongpromoarts@yahoo..com ‘This email originated ouside of the organization. Do not lik Inks or open attachments Unless you recognize the sender and know the contort is safe.Biviano, Sara From: Ward 8 (Shammas Malik) Sent: Monday, October 18, 2021 11:06 AM To: Biviano, Sara Subject: Fwd: presentation from yesterday? Sara - could you add this email thread to the record for Ordinance #2A? Thanks. Sent from my iPhone Begin forwarded message: From: "Goodrich, Shelley" Date: October 18, 2021 at 10:37:04 AM EDT To: "Ward 8 (Shammas Malik)" Subject: RE: presentation from yesterday? See my answers below. Thanks. Shelley A. Goodrich, Esq Deputy Director of Finance City of Akron, Room 205 166 S. High Street Akron, Ohio 44308, DANIELHORRIGAN, MAYOR (330) 375-2316 From: Ward 8 (Shammas Malik) Sent: Tuesday, October 12, 2021 3:21 PM To: Goodrich, Shelley Subject: RE: presentation from yesterday? Hello, 'had a handful of questions from the Guidehouse presentation, specifically the Appendix listing projects deemed eligible and moving forward. = Could you provide the tentative or current estimated amount of funds slated for each project / proposal? This will be covered in the weekly presentations to Council that will start next week. - For the Akron Cares program, how much has been expended to date, and how many disconnects have occurred monthly in 2021? We have expended $521,070.82 in 2021. Please see below for disconnect numbers: January 8 February 306 March 474April 481 May 251 June 368 July 416 August 340 September 502 October 15th 214 = For the following programs, do we know whether these will be principally managed/administered by the City of Akron or will outside partners assist with that work? (1) youth violence prevention community grant program, (2) minor plumbing repairs grant program, (3) down payment assistance program, (4) new affordable housing construction financing, (4) housing rehabilitation grants, (5) business mentorship program, and (6) main street retail draft program. This will be discussed in the weekly presentation to Council Any available information relating to the above would be appreciated. Best, Shammas From: Biviano, Sera Sent: Monday, October 4, 2021 4:16 PM To: _PDL_CityCouncil Subject: FW: presentation from yesterday? | attached this in Agenda to Go, but neglected to email it out. Didn't realize anyone was waiting on it- 80 sorry for any inconvenience! Thanks! Sara R. Biviano, CMC Acting Clerk of Council Akron City Council 330-375-2256 From: Goodrich, shelley Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 11:03 AM To: Biviano, Sara ‘Subject: RE: presentation from yesterday?Shelley A. Goodrich, Esq. Deputy Director of Finance City of Akron, Room 205 166 S. High Street ‘Akron, Ohio 44308, DANIELHORRIGAN, MAYOR (330) 375-2316 From: Biviano, Sara Sent: Tuesday, September 28, 2021 10:25 AM To: Goodrich, Shelley Subject: presentation from yesterday? Hi Shelley! Can you please send me a copy of the presentation given yesterday during Budget & Thanks! Sara R. Biviano, CMC Acting Clerk of Council Akron City Council 330-375-2256