Milford Releases Plan For American Rescue Act Fund Uses

MILFORD, CT — City officials released a report on how they plan to use $19.65 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding.

The city sought input from residents and city employees last year. The proposals were evaluated by a working group that consisted of Mayor Ben Blake, city department directors, aldermen and others. About $9.54 million hasn’t been allocated yet.

The funds for the most part must be used by the end of 2024. Infrastructure project funds can be used up until the end of 2026, but funds must be committed by the end of 2024.

Here are some highlights from the plan (read the full plan here):

Improve school HVAC systems: $2 million

The city and Milford Public Schools will each contribute $1 million of ARPA funds to upgrade school HVAC systems. Upgrades will include the installation of central air conditioning systems in some instances.

Sewer pump station upgrades: $3.5 million

City sewer pump station standby generators and controls are in need of an update. Upgrades will also help with flooding resistance.

Emergency generators: $1.5 million

Older city wastewater generators are failing during extended power outages due to old age. Generators will be replaced, and a portable generator will be purchased for use in emergency situations.

Municipal broadband and security: $2.4 million

The project will bolster security at municipal buildings, including controlled door access. Workers will have access to the Parsons Government Building for after-hours access by using proximity cards.

Police body camera contract extension: $1.3 million

The proposal includes extending contracts by five years and upgrading to the next generation of body cameras and Tasers.

Computer upgrades: $875,000

Many of the city’s computer desktops will be replaced with laptops to allow for easier remote work. The city IT department had difficulty configuring equipment for remote work during quarantine due to legacy equipment.

The upgrade also includes a three-year contract extension for Microsoft Office.

Former St. Gabriel’s School property renovation: $1.5 million

The building was purchased by the city, but needs renovations. It will be used by the city recreation department, and it will be the new Boys and Girls Club location.

Administrative costs: $1.2 million

Includes hiring temporary staff to organize, analyze and report on ARPA fund use.

Senior center outdoor space: $200,000

Funds will be used to create an outdoor space at the Milford Senior Center. Seniors had to use a shady area in the parking lot as an ad-hoc gathering space when indoor activities were suspended during the pandemic.

The area will be used for music events, leisure, fitness and other activities.

Recovery grants for Milford businesses and non-profits: $500,000

The city grant program was established to give one-time financial assistance to Milford small businesses and non-profit organizations that were negatively affected by the pandemic.

Eisenhower park upgrades: $475,000

The project includes a new pavilion, improvement to walking trails and upgrades to park bathrooms.

Baseball and softball safety fencing: $355,900

Stronger fencing will be installed at four playing fields. Safety netting will also be installed in areas to keep spectators safe.

Fiscal year 2021 general fund deficit: $409,000

Certain accounts went into deficit June 30, 2021. ARPA provisions allow for city revenue replacement in certain instances.