Indianapolis Appropriates Final CARES Act Funds

The final round of federal CARES Act funding will be distributed in Indianapolis. The City-County Council held a special meeting to approve $76 million in funds for a variety of programs related to COVID-19 relief.

A total of $168 million was allocated to the city, and the money must be spent by the end of the year. 

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogestt said Congress has been unable to pass more assistance.

"No amount of finger pointing in Washington will make rent in Haughville," Hogsett said. 

In one allocation, $7.5 million is set aside for rental assistance, to make a total of $30 million.  And $8 million will go to help people experiencing homelessness. Funds will also go toward food assistance, small businesses and arts and culture organizations.

The largest chunk of money, $30 million, is set aside for government operations reimbursement, for expenses incurred addressing the pandemic this year.

Indianapolis Chief of Staff Thomas Cook said reimbursements will help the city to not fall behind.

"Put us in a good position next year to avoid significant cuts to public health and public safety operations," Cook said, "as a result of whatever economic downturn or budget decisions need to be made."

New programs to receive money include funding for PPE for teachers, mental health awareness and immigrant public health outreach.