The Reno City Council discussed Wednesday how it will spend more than $46 million received in federal COVID-19 relief funds.
This is certainly good news for families and local businesses, considering the State of Nevada is experiencing financial belt-tightening due to a historic budget shortfall.
The City Council has received various proposals from the community on how to spend this money. However, there are restrictions and a deadline on spending. Federal guidelines make it clear that the funds must be used only for new expenses arising out of the pandemic situation, not to “backfill” budget shortfalls.
The payments will come in two phases. Money released in the first phase must be spent by Sept. 1. A final 50% would be paid only if the City submits a reimbursement claim or a detailed spending plan by that date.
The City now has to come up with a plan to be submitted to the State. Its focus remains on public safety, health care and human services.
This is how the money could be spent:
The City might receive a one time $3.5 million reimbursement of existing and non-budgeted COVID-19 related expenses like personal protective equipment (PPE), paid leave, staff overtime and sanitizing equipment.
An estimated $4.4 million could be spent for improving infrastructures such as IT, fire and police to enable people to safely work from home, if the plan goes through.
As parents mull school reopening plans, $500,000 could be spent to help at-risk students studying remotely.
The city has taken into account that some businesses might need direct intervention to wait out the financial dip. More than $2.5 million could be spent in phases to pay off losses incurred by businesses which have been closed as per Gov. Steve Sisolak’s directives.
The plan shows a special focus on helping out various vulnerable populations in Reno.
A total of $7.5 million could be spent to acquire and build shelters for the homeless population.
In addition, $2.5 million could be allocated to ease rent-related problems. The rent relief may include direct payment to the landlords to settle rent dues to keep people sheltered for “as long as possible.” Reno Housing Authority is already providing rental assistance to local residents through the CARES Housing Assistance Program, administered through the state, but those funds are limited.
City officials said they want to help with the region’s mental health crisis by spending some $5.5 million on mental health care for “specific, COVID-traceable, mental health response.”
Another $1.5 million is being proposed to ensure food supply to people facing food insecurity.
Parks and recreation facilities could get $1.6 million to ensure environments where families can enjoy themselves while maintaining social distancing.
COVID-related education, communication and enforcement could get an amount of $500,000; Pandemic research and measurement could get $200,000 in support.
Read more news about COVID-19 in Reno
Superintendent discusses COVID-19 dashboard, distance learning and future anti-racist resolution
Washoe Schools superintendent Kristen McNeill briefed media on COVID-19 in the schools, distance learning, and diversity in the district.
Governor’s Bowl Park slated for permanent emergency homeless shelter
The Reno City Council next week is scheduled to consider a resolution for the purchase of Governor’s Bowl Park, at East 7th Street near the Spaghetti Bowl,…
Audio Diario: Cómo dirigir la despensa de alimentos de una escuela | KUNR
En este audio diario, Carolina Juárez comparte su experiencia apoyando a los alumnos y dirigiendo la despensa de alimentos de la escuela.
Sheriff’s Office reports first COVID-19 case in general population of jail
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office today reported its first known case of COVID-19 in the general population of its detention facility.
Sisolak blasts Trump’s Nevada rallies, may alter directives
Gov. Steve Sisolak asked in a letter Wednesday to Vice President Mike Pence why President Donald Trump’s campaign defied White House guidance on public gatherings by holding…
Washoe County progresses to COVID-moderate yellow zone, but risks haven’t disappeared
At the Washoe County and state level briefings today, health officials greeted Nevadans with a flurry of good news–and some cautions.
UNR reports 135 COVID-19 cases
The University of Nevada, Reno on Sept. 4 reported its highest COVID-19 new case count yet: 24 students, faculty and staff.
All races have COVID; people of color will face vastly different outcomes
New realities have come to light suggesting that while anyone might be infected with COVID-19, the outcome of the disease will be vastly different.
Dems decry President Trump’s visit to Nevada, focus on November
On Saturday the Nevada State Democratic Party hosted a call with the National Democratic Party Chairman Tom Perez to focus on the 2020 campaign and activities and…
Teamsters sue bus contractor over passengers not wearing masks
The Teamsters Union filed for injunctive relief and arbitration to compel the RTC to enforce the governor’s mask mandate on public transit.
