The Town of Mills River is looking for help from the community.
Town officials want the public’s input on what they should do with the remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money.
In total, Mills River received more than $2.3 million over a span of two years.
So far, the town’s already given some of that money to the fire and rescue department and the farmer’s market.
Right now, the remainder of the funds have yet to be obligated.
So, over the next few months, the town plans to conduct public input sessions and is looking for feedback.
Town Manager Daniel Cobb said the remaining money can be used for workforce, housing, public safety, parks and recreation — really anything related to the town.
He said he knows COVID-19 was challenging for everyone and he said these funds will help make a difference.
“We implemented work from home policies - things of that nature - so getting this money is really going to help put money back into the community,” Cobb said. “The town was very cautious in its spending during the pandemic, obviously not knowing what was happening with the economy and receiving these direct funds from the feds to the state to the town is really going to help us reinvest in the community.”
The town plans to launch a survey later this week.
On Oct. 13, Town Council will discuss its ideas and priorities for the additional money.
Then, on Oct. 20, the town will host two input sessions. One will be in the morning and the other will be in the evening that day.
You can find more details HERE.