American Rescue Plan

Commissioners now plan to spend a total $35.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to produce new units, fix up existing units, and establish a home repair program. Another $5 million will be used for homelessness prevention.

Millions of dollars from the federal American Rescue Plan is still on the table in Hamilton County and commissioners are starting a debate on how best to spend the money. A consulting firm spent the last few months meeting with stakeholders and developing a list of recommendations.

Two more projects are getting a funding boost from Cincinnati's federal stimulus money. Council Member Liz Keating asked to delay a vote so the money could be considered along with the city budget this summer.

The request is part of a plan to combat the usual surge in crime during warm weather. Interim Chief Teresa Theetge says the overtime would go toward implementing safety plans developed by each district commander.

Mayor Aftab Pureval has announced about $9 million in new funding for various projects since taking office in January, with more announcements likely on the horizon. The funds are "leftover" from last year's American Rescue Plan Act.

The program is funded by $5 million from the American Rescue Plan. Homeowners who make 80% or less of the area median income are eligible.

The grants are designed to supplement groups providing services like job training, food access and foreclosure prevention. County commissioners allocated the money as part of the American Rescue Plan federal stimulus.

A recreation center has been a primary goal for community advocates in the Villages at Roll Hill this year after a shooting in nearby East Westwood involving two young children put a spotlight on the area.

Commissioners unanimously approved the $125,000 contract Thursday.

Administrator Jeff Aluotto says consultants would focus on affordable housing, mental health, public health and community resiliency, workforce development, youth development and homeless prevention.