Saline County Commission Approves Modifications to ARPA Projects Amid Funding Uncertainty

The Saline County Commission convened to discuss modifications and updates to projects funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The county received $10,532,376 in federal funds, with the requirement to fully obligate them by December 31, 2024. As of early May, about $7.85 million has been spent. Proposed changes include addressing the future of the "Choose Saline County" app, which faced uncertainty due to the closure of the technology provider, Colu Technologies.

Another proposed modification involves extending the timeframe for the mental health co-responder program, due to delays in finalizing agreements and staffing. Additionally, a new task order is recommended to complete grant administration. Staff recommended continuing collaboration with the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, extending the co-responder program, and obtaining a new task order. The commission passed the proposal in a vote, allowing for these modifications to proceed.