I. RECOMMENDATION:
City Manager recommends Council direct City Manager to send a letter expressing support for $500 million in direct and flexible federal assistance to local governments.This item was first requested as a Future Agenda Item by Councilman Adkisson and subsequently requested as a Future Agenda Item by Councilwoman Stolz.
II. BACKGROUND:
The next COVID-19 relief package is currently being negotiated. The current U.S. Senate proposal does not include aid to local governments. This item, if approved, would let the U.S. Senate know that cities need $500 billion in direct and flexible federal assistance.
III. DISCUSSION:
On Monday, July 27, 2020, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) introduced the HEALS Act in the U.S. Senate. The HEALS Act does not contain any additional funds for states or local governments.
This item would direct the City Manager to send a letter expressing support for $500 billion in direct and flexible federal assistance to local governments of all sizes to sustain core services for our residents and to support public health and economic recovery in our communities.
A sample of the letter is attached.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
Do not direct the City Manager to send the letter.
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
None. |