City of Erie Estimated to Receive over $79 Million from American Rescue Plan

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Erie Mayor Joe Schember announced on March 11 that the City of Erie is expecting a big boost from the newly signed American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

Schember said "According to estimates, we have seen in print, the City of Erie should receive just over $79 million in federal funds, which will help us deal with the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and allow the city to recover lost revenue." Schember said his team will be looking for guidance on how the funds can be used, noting collaborative efforts with County Executive Kathy Dahlkemper and leaders of other funds receiving Erie County municipalities  "so that the people of our region can receive the most benefit possible."

Schember said "The past year has challenged all of us in Erie like nothing before. I'm very inspired by how our community came together to support each other throughout the pandemic. I'm also very proud of my team's tireless work in dealing with the challenges of this pandemic. " He noted the county has "cut spending significantly" and submitted a proposal to the City Council that will address a second major financial issue - the city's debt. Schember said City leaders have found avenues for long-term city revenue increase. 

"I am grateful to Pres. Biden and Sen. Casey (PA) for their advocacy and support of the cities and counties that have been bearing the frontline costs of the pandemic," said Schember. "I look forward to guidance on how we can use that $79.08 million. We'll provide all the details as soon as they become available to us."