Portland seeks public input on use of pandemic relief funds

File photo Portland City Hall

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With more than $46 million in federal pandemic relief funds promised to the city of Portland, officials are seeking public input on how the money should best be used.

The money from the American Rescue Plan Act is meant to replace revenues lost because of the pandemic.

Payment was split into two equal tranches, with the first half received in May and the second half to be paid no sooner than May 2022.

While the Portland City Council approved the use of $8.5 million out of the total as part of its budget for fiscal year 2022, $14.6 million remains to be allocated from the first tranche of $23 million.

As part of the public process, the council plans to review suggestions on how the money should be spent from city staff and residents, who are encouraged to share their feedback and suggestions online as well as to review project details and take a short survey.

“I look forward to working with the community, City staff, and my colleagues on the Council to determine the best use of funds in this first tranche,” said Portland Mayor Kate Snyder in a news release Tuesday.

She said the funds "offer a wonderful opportunity to invest in community needs created by the pandemic, and to consider generational investments in public infrastructure.”

City Councilor Nick Mavodones, who chairs the council's Finance Committee, said, “I’m thankful the City was able to receive these funds as it will greatly allow us to recover and grow from the impacts created by the pandemic ... I look forward to working with all interested parties to gather ideas within the eligible uses for how these funds are invested in our community as we have the opportunity to make significant investments in our future.”

The positive pandemic-related news comes as Maine continues to battle COVID-19.

On Tuesday, Gov. Janet Mills said she is reviewing updated guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on wearing face masks, with an announcement expected Wednesday on potential changes to Maine's current public health recommendations.

"In the meantime," Mills said in a statement Tuesday, "we continue to strongly urge all Maine people to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated. It is the best and most effective way to protect your health and that of your family, friends and communities."

Further details on relief funds

The city noted in Tuesday's news release that the relief funds have statutory eligible uses. Those include the provision of government services and to respond to workers performing essential work during the public health emergency.

However, funds can generally not be used for things like debt service, depositing extraordinary funds into a pension account or general economic development or workforce development unless related to the pandemic, the city said.

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, also called the COVID-19 Stimulus Package or American Rescue Plan, is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill signed into law by President Joe Biden in March.

Provisions include funding for broadband, airports and relief for shuttered live entertainment venues.