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<br /> As we approach the conclusion of the American Rescue Plan Act(ARPA)funding period,we are pleased
<br /> to present an update on the allocation and utilization of ARPA funds in our community.The Town of
<br /> Lexington was allocated a total of$9,903,381 in ARPA funds, aimed at addressing the impacts of the
<br /> COVID-19 pandemic and fostering recovery across critical sectors.
<br /> As of February 5,2024,the Select Board has approved spending totaling$9,110,345.The funds have been
<br /> allocated to the following initiative areas:
<br /> • Economic Stimulus&Resiliency:The largest portion,approximately 37%of the funds,was
<br /> earmarked to support our local economy,including bolstering the cultural sector,aiding small
<br /> businesses,enhancing community events,updating digital platforms,improving public spaces,
<br /> and fostering bikeway mobility and engagement.
<br /> • Public Health&Safety:With 26%of the funding,this area focused on bolstering the town's
<br /> health department and public safety measures in response to the pandemic.
<br /> • Housing:l6%of the funds were allocated to address housing needs,ensuring support for those
<br /> affected by the pandemic in securing stable housing.
<br /> • Pandemic Response:l3%of the funds were directly used for pandemic-related expenditures,
<br /> including testing,vaccination programs,and other immediate health needs.
<br /> • PIRs(Program Improvement Requests):6%of the funds have been utilized for enhancing the
<br /> Food Waste Program,acquiring a new electric vehicle for the Health Department,and
<br /> formulating an ADA Town Building Self Evaluation and Transition Plan.
<br /> • Food Insecurity:A smaller,yet crucial2%of the funds addressed food insecurity,ensuring that
<br /> residents affected by the pandemic have access to necessary resources.
<br /> The Participatory Budgeting(PB)process implemented in the previous year,which actively engaged our
<br /> citizens in the decision-making process,leading to impactful community projects. However, given the
<br /> stipulation that all ARPA funds must be committed by December 31,2024, the continuation of the PB
<br /> process will not be feasible this calendar year.Further,it is important to note that,despite concerted efforts,
<br /> the initiative to establish a Dog Park will not proceed due to the inability to identify a suitable location
<br /> within the time frames for ARPA spending.We extend our gratitude to all residents who participated in
<br /> the PB process, contributing valuable insights and demonstrating the strength of our community's
<br /> collective vision.
<br /> With an available balance of$899,974,the Select Board is dedicated to navigate the final phase of ARPA
<br /> Ifund allocation and utilization����;;"�he Select Board remains committed to ensuring that these resources
<br /> are deployed in a manner that maximizes benefits for our community,adhering to the guiding principles
<br /> of transparency,equity,and strategic impact.
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