ARPA Impact Report: An Analysis of How Counties are Addressing National Issues With Local Investments
America's nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees are on the frontlines of the nation's response to the coronavirus pandemic. As the country emerges from the pandemic and grapples with the toll it has taken on our citizens, counties are responding and rebuilding. At the same time, many counties are still confronting significant workforce shortage pressures at a time with growing, critical resident needs.
With American Rescue Plan funds, counties are strengthening America's workforce, addressing the nation's behavioral health crisis, expanding broadband access, improving housing affordability and building prosperous communities for the next generation.
Resource
NACo Analysis of the American Rescue Plan Act
Resource
County Investments of American Rescue Plan Recovery Funds
One-stop center keeps youth out of court
To better support at-risk youth, Calcasieu Parish, La., built its Multi-Agency Resource Center, a “one-stop-shop” model that proactively connects young people with community supports before they’re involved with the justice system.
USDA releases new SNAP proposed rules, impacting eligibility and work requirements
Counties are encouraged to comment on the potential impacts of these changes, particularly in connection with other upcoming SNAP changes
Innovate Solutions Together: Turning Ideas into Results
NACo CEO Matt Chase: "Every one of these counties started in the same place: a local vision, followed by a search for ideas. NACo builds the networks that connect county officials and other experts."
Salute to county leaders: Jim Schmidt
After a mid-term appointment to succeed a late commissioner, Jim Schmidt stayed on the Lincoln County, S.D. Board of Commissioners for 28 years, during which time his county's population grew dramatically, both physically and managerially.
U.S. Senate advances Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act in initial procedural vote
On Nov. 9, the U.S. Senate advanced the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (S. 5653) through a successful vote to invoke cloture. The 73-25 vote sets up further debate and consideration in the chamber.
County pairs veteran housing with on-site support services to speed self-sufficiency
San Bernardino County, Calif. built an apartment community for veterans to help reduce the barriers to housing and supportive services.