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Richland County residents asked for funding feedback

Melinda Waldrop //July 2, 2021//

Richland County residents asked for funding feedback

Melinda Waldrop //July 2, 2021//

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Richland County residents can weigh in on how the county should spend its share of $350 billion in federal pandemic relief funding through Aug. 20.

The county will receive an estimated $80 million through the American Rescue Plan Act, signed into law in March, according to a news release from Richland County. A fact sheet is available online at richlandcountysc.gov/ARPAfunding with information on funding options and a survey to provide feedback.

Hard copies of the survey are available at the second-floor front entrance of the Richland County Administration building at 2020 Hampton St.

Funding options include public health spending, including COVID-19 vaccination and testing programs, behavioral health support, and public health and safety personnel payroll; assistance for families facing financial insecurity, support for small businesses and the recovery of local tourism, and the rehiring of public sector staff; replacing lost public sector revenue; and investing in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure.

The online survey is available through Aug. 20, and hard copies must be submitted in person to the county’s budget and grants management office by 5 p.m. Aug. 20. Public comments can also be emailed to gaither.steven@richlandcountysc.gov, faxed to 803-576-2138 or mailed to Richland County Government, Budget and Grants Department, 2020 Hampton St., Suite 4036, P.O. Box 192, Columbia, S.C., 29204, attention Steven Gaither, grant manager.

County administration will consider public comments as it develops a multi-year spending plan. Later this year, the county will hold a public meeting to discuss the feedback received and to provide more information and funding distribution.  

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