Title
Resolution authorizing an emergency appropriation of $20,000 of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (CSLFRF) as part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for an Eviction Mediation Program in Fund 746 ARPA Fund.
Staff Summary
* The ARPA was signed into law on March 11, 2021. On May 19, 2021 the County received $67,646,879, half of the amount the County will receive in total from the US Treasury.
* The funds can be used for needs associated with public health, to counteract negative economic impacts, provide services to disproportionately impacted communities, for infrastructure, to provide premium pay, to replace lost revenue, and for administrative purposes during a period from March 3, 2021 to December 31, 2024.
* The 19th Judicial Circuit Court is requesting the assistance of ARPA funding in the amount of $20,000 to help sustain the existing Eviction Mediation program. A successful Eviction Mediation Program assists landlords and tenants to resolve their disputes at a rate of 70-80% and avoids the need for a lengthy or costly court process.
* With the termination of the federal and state eviction moratoriums, the 19th Judicial Circuit anticipates a significant increase in new eviction case filings, and as such, a significant increase in tenants and landlords that could benefit from Eviction Mediation
* The increase in eviction mediations will result in a significant increase of time commitment from the attorneys that are serving as mediators. To maintain the necessary roster of eviction mediators to meet the increased demand, the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit believes it necessary to compensate the mediators at a rate of $50 per mediation.
* Authority to spend appropriated funds and execute any and all agreements with partners related to this allocation and distribution of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds is delegated to the County Administrator or their designee(s).
Body
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, for several years, and wit...
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