KANKAKEE IL - Mayor Chris Curtis, in consultation with Kankakee City Council members, is asking City of Kankakee residents to share their priorities for the expenditure of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The City was allocated approximately $14.6 million in federal assistance to help recover from the pandemic, and public input will help determine how this money is spent.

An online survey is available in two languages: English and Spanish. The survey asks respondents to prioritize spending options among various categories including: Youth engagement programs, safe and livable neighborhoods, job creation and economic development, strong and healthy housing, avoiding cuts to city services and public safety. It also invites people to list other priorities that they may have.

The city is projected to face significant revenue impacts due to the pandemic that will require the use of the American Recovery Plan funding as it strives to reimagine its workspaces and workforce for a post-pandemic world. Beyond this much-needed relief for fiscal stress and operations, the stimulus package will set aside money to ensure we get resources where they are needed to restart the City of Kankakee, reopen businesses, assist tenants and landlords and strengthen social agencies.

"The money the City of Kankakee is receiving unlocks an unprecedented opportunity for our city, an opportunity to invest that would be impossible without ARP funds," said Mayor Curtis. "We already know the money will be spent to enhance lives, solve problems and address safety issues. The feedback shared through our survey will be thoughtfully and carefully considered as we make specific budget decisions about the funds."

People are invited to take the survey at https://citykankakee-il.gov/american-rescue-plan-2021.php

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The City of Kankakee is dedicated to protecting, building, and nurturing the community while enhancing lives. We are a historic, vibrant, and active riverfront community. We continue to transform into an extraordinary place to dream, grow, and thrive. Embracing our diversity, we strive to be progressive, inclusive, and innovative. For more information on the City of Kankakee, please visit the website at www.citykankakee-il.gov.

 

Download the Press Release - Seeking Input: American Rescue Plan Act Spending