Jeannette businesses won't get American Rescue Plan cash for now, officials say

Jeannette will not be offering businesses American Rescue Plan funding, at least for now.

A measure that would’ve created an application process was rejected by council Thursday 3-2. Councilwoman Robin Mozley, who had requested the item be placed on the agenda, and Councilman Chuck Highlands cast the affirmative votes.

Mozley said she will continue to pursue the matter in an effort to help businesses that are struggling during the coronavirus pandemic. The move would not have committed money, but would have started the process to do so.

Other council members wanted to focus the city’s $900,000 on infrastructure projects, or wait for the final rules about how the federal money can be spent.

“Do we need to take care of our infrastructure? Most definitely,” Mozley said. “I am in agreement. It’s just like I feel like we can’t leave these people out.”

Jeannette officials have not formally detailed a plan for the funding while waiting on the final regulations, which have not been released. The American Rescue Plan is a $1.9 trillion stimulus package approved in March that includes funding for counties and local municipalities. The money must be spent by the end of 2024.

Council last month approved $500 bonuses for full-time employees. About $120,000 will be spent to upgrade radios for the fire department. Both measures are pending the final rules.

Expenses related to the coronavirus pandemic would qualify for the funds, under interim rules, as would grants to help small businesses, nonprofits and industries that have suffered during the last 21 months. It can be spent on water, sewer and broadband projects but it cannot be used to lower taxes, demolish buildings or bolster municipal pension funds.

Mayor Curtis Antoniak said he voted against creating the application process because he thinks the money needs to be spent on infrastructure. In addition, businesses were eligible for other federal funding earlier in the pandemic.

“If we had extra money, OK, but right now the way it looks, we don’t,” he said.