Joplin, Missouri has been approved to receive $33.8 million in grants as part of the American Rescue Plan Act. This is half of the total $67.8 million the city has applied for so far. The grants will be used to fund a range of city projects aimed at improving infrastructure and services.
City staff and consultants provide update on grant status
City staff and representatives of Guidehouse, a consultant hired to help Joplin maximize its grants through various government programs, will provide an update on the status of grants awarded and those still in the application process. The council will also hear a request to extend the contract with Guidehouse for representation beyond June 2023.
Majority of top priority projects funded or partially funded
Of the city’s top 20 priorities identified by the council, half have been funded or partially funded by the grants received so far. These include projects to address stormwater and wastewater issues, as well as grants for police and fire department equipment, housing, education, and parks projects.
Consultants to help develop final spending plan
Guidehouse has been hired to help Joplin develop a final spending plan for the city’s ARPA allocation once all the grants are decided. They will also provide updates to the council on the grants awarded and denied, and help the city apply for additional grants. The council will be asked to approve an extension of Guidehouse’s contract until July 2024.
ARPA grant application process nearing completion
The state ARPA applications have all been completed, but the infrastructure grant periods will continue for several more months. Funds remain on the original contract with Guidehouse to continue to apply for additional grants on behalf of the city, but the contract itself will expire in June.
The grants received by Joplin will go a long way in addressing the city’s priorities and improving the quality of life for its residents. With the help of Guidehouse and city staff, Joplin can continue to maximize its grant opportunities and make the most of the funds available through the American Rescue Plan Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the American Rescue Plan Act?
The American Rescue Plan Act is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill that was signed into law by President Joe Biden in March 2021. It provides funding for a wide range of programs, including aid to state and local governments, vaccine distribution, small business relief, and direct payments to individuals. -
What is Guidehouse?
Guidehouse is a management consulting firm that was hired by the city of Joplin to assist with filing and monitoring state and federal grants programs. They are also helping the city develop a final spending plan for their ARPA allocation and providing updates to the City Council on the status of grants. -
What are some of the projects that have received funding through ARPA grants in Joplin?
Some of the projects that have received funding through ARPA grants in Joplin include stormwater and wastewater projects, equipment for police and fire departments, housing projects, education, and parks projects. A detailed list of the grants awarded will be presented at the City Council meeting. -
What is the cost of the original contract with Guidehouse?
The original contract with Guidehouse for a year cost $375,000. The City Council will be asked to approve a contract extension until July 2024, or as long as funds remain from the original contract amount.
