The gist
As part of the ARPA agreement with the federal government, commissioners court approved funding for two new projects designed to provide assistance for people suffering addiction and mental health issues.
The commissioners court authorized the use of $3.6 million of ARPA funds to create a mobile medical team with the University Of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio to provide care for individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders.
An additional $4 million of ARPA funds were authorized to create a program for peer-based recovery support services for residents seeking recovery for current or past behavioral health issues. This program will also be administered by the University Of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.
The context
In March 2021, the federal government passed a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill and established a $350 million fund known as the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund. These funds are designed to provide assistance to groups disproportionately impacted by Covid-19 and the resulting economic fallout. These groups include minority communities and low-income individuals. Bexar County was awarded $389 million in ARPA funds.
Funds may be used to:
- Replace lost public sector revenue
- Respond to far-reaching public health and the negative economic impact of the pandemic
- Provide premium pay for essential workers
- Invest in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure
- Provide emergency relief from natural disasters
- Support transportation projects through eligible projects
- Support Title I projects that are eligible under the Community Development Block Grant and Indian Community Development Block Grant programs
