On March 10, 2021 the U.S. Congress passed a law called the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.  The law provides money to states and local governments to recover from the Coronavirus pandemic.  Brown County applied for, and received, a large grant through the rescue plan.

According to Brown County Grants Coordinator, Bob Contreras, Brown County  received a categorical grant in the amount of $7,354,638.  Half the amount, $3,677,319 was received last week and has been deposited into County coffers.  The County will receive the second half of the money in May, 2022.

This money must be used to invest in water, sewer and broadband infrastructure.  Funds may also be used to support public health expenditures by funding COVID-19 mitigation efforts and medical expenses.

Brown County officials will meet soon with officials of local municipalities to collaborate on potential projects using these funds.

According to Contreras, Brown County Commissioners have sole authority in approving distribution of these funds to local entities for the purposes shown above.

If you have a project to present for consideration under the American Rescue Plan Act, contract the Office of Brown County Judge Dr. Paul Lilly or call your county commissioner.