ARPA Grants Awarded to Brewster, Chatham and Wellfleet, Concluding $10 Million County Initiative
September 27, 2023 (BARNSTABLE COUNTY, MA) — Today, the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners announced the allocation of ARPA awards to Brewster, Chatham and Wellfleet, marking a milestone in the county’s successful goal to distribute $10 million to all 15 Cape Cod towns. This achievement underscores the County’s commitment to community development and addressing pressing needs.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Award to the Town of Chatham
The County Commissioners awarded a grant of $345,543.15 under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to the Town of Chatham.
Jill Goldsmith, Chatham Town Manager, said “We appreciate the flexibility that funding from the Revenue Replacement category provides. Chatham will be allocating these funds to a diverse range of initiatives, including the funding of Behavioral Health Community Services clinicians and the improvement of our public restrooms.” The funds will support the hiring of two Licensed Social Workers in Chatham–one focused on youth and the other on adults and seniors.
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Award to the Town of Wellfleet
The Board awarded an ARPA grant of $202,000 to the Town of Wellfleet. This funding will enable the town to evaluate housing needs and development goals. Specifically, it will support a comprehensive wastewater assessment for the recently acquired parcel of land known as Maurice’s Campground. This initiative aligns with Barnstable County’s vision for sustainable growth and environmental preservation.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to move our project into the critical planning phase to address our housing needs.” said Richard Waldo, Wellfleet’s Town Administrator.
Commissioner Sheila Lyons commended Mr. Waldo by saying, “I am delighted that we can now allocate this funding, and it’s truly satisfying to see all the pieces align perfectly for this important project. Wellfleet’s dedication to applying these funds where they are needed most is commendable. Congratulations, Rich, on getting this initiative off to a strong start.”
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant Award to the Town of Brewster
The Board awarded an ARPA grant of $495,633 to the Town of Brewster. These funds will be used for site remediation at the former Sea Camps Bay property and improvements to the parking and boat ramp at Long Pond Landing.
Peter Lombardi, Brewster Town Administrator, expressed gratitude, stating, “Brewster is appreciative of the County’s support to help fund improvements at the Sea Camps and Long Pond with federal funding. These funds will play a critical role in being able to move forward with these important community initiatives.”
Chairman Mark Forest, in his closing remarks while awarding the last three town ARPA grants, thanked the ARPA Advisory Committee, Town staff members, and the County ARPA team for their dedication and hard work. He also expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the Assembly of Delegates in devising a shared plan for the community’s benefit.
Support of Rep. Fernandes’ Letter to NOAA Urging NOAA to Remain in Woods Hole
During the County Commissioners’ meeting, State Representative Dylan Fernandes’ office sought support for a letter directed to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This letter, especially significant given NOAA’s ongoing study about its location and potential relocation out of Woods Hole, underscored the crucial role NOAA currently plays in the community. Alec Scicchitano, Legislative Aide, represented Representative Fernandes and highlighted NOAA’s invaluable contributions in Woods Hole. The Commissioners officially endorsed the letter, urgently urging NOAA to maintain its integral role within the Woods Hole community.
Contract for Cape Cod Commission Executive Director
The Commissioners also authorized the execution of a three-year contract with Kristy Senatori to continue serving as the Executive Director of the Cape Cod Commission. This contract will begin on October 3, 2023, and will extend through October 2, 2026.
ABOUT BARNSTABLE COUNTY REGIONAL GOVERNMENT OF CAPE COD
Barnstable County provides exemplary government functions and services to keep our community healthy and safe, promote sustainable growth, and offer a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more at www.capecod.gov
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