CITY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA
                  CITY COUNCIL AGENDA



  Agenda Date:        October 3, 2022

  Action Required:    Approval of resolution.

  Presenter:          Chris Cullinan, Director of Finance

  Staff Contacts:     Richard Palumbo - Utility Billing

  Title:              Appropriating American Rescue Plan funds from the Commonwealth for
                      Utility Bill Assistance - $29,524.18 (1 of 2 readings)


Background
The Commonwealth of Virginia received $4.3 billion of American Rescue Plan Funds. Of this total,
$120 million was dedicated toward residential utility bills that are more than 60 days overdue. The
City received approximately $360,000 in December 2021, which was applied to eligible
accounts. The City recently received notice of a second award of funds in the amount of
$29,524.18.

Discussion
The guidance for the second award is the same as the first award, namely the assistance is limited to
residential customers with arrearages greater than 60 days for the time period between March 12,
2020 and August 31, 2021. Customers do not need to take any action or provide information to
receive these relief funds. The Utility Billing Office will distribute the funds on a proportionate basis
as soon possible.

Alignment with City Council's Vision and Strategic Plan
This resolution contributes to Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan, to be an inclusive community of self-
sufficient residents; Goal 2 to be a healthy and safe City; and Goal 5 to be a well-managed and
responsive organization.

Community Engagement
None.

Budgetary Impact
This has no impact on the General Fund or Utility Enterprise Funds. These funds will be
appropriated to and expended from a designated fund. The funds will be distributed as credits
towards a customer’s bill.

Recommendation
Staff recommends approval and appropriation of funds.

Suggested Motion: “I move the RESOLUTION appropriating the amount of $29,524.18 of American
Rescue Plan funds received from the Commonwealth of Virginia for residential utility bill assistance.”

Alternatives
There are no alternatives. Funds must be used for utility bill arrearage assistance or be returned to
the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Accounts.

Attachments
1.   10.3.22 Resolution ARP Utility Bill Assistance