OTTAWA – The LaSalle County Board voted to approve more American Rescue Plan Applications from agencies throughout the county, but not without hesitation. Tuesday’s board meeting started with newly elected member Ray Gatza speaking on behalf of his district, with skepticism on past approved applications and how the remainder of the county’s ARPA funds should be allocated.
Board member Douglas Trager added that the money should be and is focused on what it’s for: helping those affected by the pandemic that need the funding to recover.
Following the discussion, the board agreed to approve seven out of 13 applications with over half receiving less than what they asked for.
Approved applications include the Circuit Breaker School for $1.2 million, the Heritage Corridor Convention & Visitors Bureau for $150,000, The Starved Rock County Foundation for $193,500, The Mendota Tri-County Fair for $25,000, the Utica Fire Protection District for just over $67,000, the Mendota Fire Department for $110,000, and Knights of Columbus for $45,800. Applications from the Ottawa Fire Department and Habitat for Humanity were tabled until the board reaches a full understanding as to why the funds are needed and how it will impact the county.
