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County Commissioners Approve Key Housing Initiatives, Review Public Health Findings for Lower Cape, and Advance IT Digitization

November 26, 2024 (Barnstable, MA) — At the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners’ regular meeting this morning, Assistant County Administrator Vaira Harik provided an update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) sub-recipient application process and introduced two critical housing tranche grant agreements. The Commissioners also reviewed findings from a Lower Cape health needs survey and approved initiatives addressing public health and IT digitization. 

During the meeting, Assistant County Administrator Vaira Harik presented an overview of Barnstable County’s ARPA sub-recipient application process. She emphasized the multi-level process designed to ensure transparency and accountability, detailing the rigorous review of organizational capacity, financial compliance, and project feasibility conducted before any proposals were brought to the Commissioners for approval. Ms. Harik highlighted the role of the ARPA Advisory Committee in setting funding priorities to maximize regional impact, focusing on projects addressing critical needs.  

To date, Barnstable County has allocated over $40 million in ARPA funding to address regional priorities, with $11.4 million specifically dedicated to housing-related initiatives. These funds focus on three key areas: $3 million for homelessness and medical respite, $6.9 million for affordable housing, and $1.5 million for workforce housing.    The County’s ARPA funds have contributed to a total of 320 affordable housing units across various projects, which also received additional funding to support their completion. 

In alignment with U.S. Treasury requirements, all funds must be obligated by December 31, 2024, and fully expended by December 31, 2026.  With today’s vote, all the housing-related funds have been allocated. Ms. Harik’s presentation and full review is available at https://www.capecod.gov/ARPA%20Award%20Process_11_26_24

Barnstable County Approves Key Housing Initiatives Today with ARPA Funds

Homelessness Services Expansion

The Housing Assistance Corporation (HAC) was awarded $3,000,000 to secure a building for expanded homelessness services currently managed by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River and Duffy Health Center. This facility will provide medical respite, day programs, and increased capacity to address long-standing challenges such as limited space and outdated facilities. HAC CEO Alisa Magnotta called the project “a transformative step forward for the region’s most vulnerable individuals.” 

FORWARD at the Rock Phase II

Friends or Relatives with Autism and Related Disabilities (FORWARD) received $326,850 to support the construction of eight one-bedroom apartments specifically designed for adults with autism and related disabilities. This project builds on FORWARD’s previous success with group homes, offering permanent, supportive housing for at-risk adults. FORWARD President Kathy Oman highlighted the community collaboration behind the project and its significance in improving the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities in Barnstable County. 

Chairman Ron Bergstrom praised the approved projects, saying, “Housing has consistently been one of our top priorities, and today we’re seeing the results of that commitment. These projects will have a lasting impact on the lives of many people in Barnstable County.” The Commissioners also expressed gratitude to staff, community partners, and applicants for their efforts in ensuring effective use of ARPA funds. 

Lower Cape Health Needs Assessment Findings

Dr. Katie O’Neill, Shared Services Program Manager for the Department of Health and Environment, alongside Nicole Hallas, Research Manager at Crescendo Consulting Group, presented the findings of the Lower Cape Community Health Needs Assessment to the Barnstable County Board of Regional Commissioners. Funded by the Public Health Excellence Grant, this initiative aims to address the health system costs associated with COVID-19 and other public health services while identifying pressing community needs in Brewster, Chatham, Harwich, and Orleans. 

The assessment uncovered key challenges, including access to affordable housing, a shortage of healthcare providers, and rising living costs contributing to food insecurity, which has surged nearly 20% since 2018. Unique regional issues, such as an aging population facing increased isolation and barriers to care, further underscore the need for community support. Stigma around mental health and substance use also emerged as a critical concern, emphasizing the importance of education and accessible services. Recommendations include expanding mental health and substance use programs, advocating for affordable housing, and fostering community connections through inclusive events and resources. 

To learn more, view the full presentation and data at https://www.capecod.gov/Lower%20Cape%20Community%20Health%20Assessment

Advancing IT Efficiency Through Digitization

The Commissioners also authorized the approval of a contract with Stellar Services for $70,729.56, using ARPA funds, to support the IT Department’s management of the digitization project. The scope of work includes site configuration, intake of electronic files and metadata, staff training, and Go Live support. 

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 offers a proactive, open government that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Barnstable County. Learn more at www.capecod.gov. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Sonja Sheasley, Communications Coordinator Sonja.sheasley@capecod.gov

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