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Local government

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey Announces $600 Million Coronavirus Relief and Recovery Plan

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has announced a comprehensive coronavirus relief and recovery plan, allocating nearly $600 million in funds to local Arizona governments and nonprofits. The plan includes $441 million in direct, flexible funding to local cities, towns, and counties that did not receive direct funding from the federal government earlier this year. The funds will be allocated from the AZCares Fund, established by the Governor's Office, and will be distributed based on 2019 census data. The plan aims to provide maximum flexibility and prioritize getting dollars quickly to where they are needed most.

Key Takeaways:

  • The plan allocates nearly $600 million in coronavirus relief and recovery dollars to local Arizona governments and nonprofits.
  • The funding includes $441 million in direct, flexible funding to local cities, towns, and counties that did not receive direct funding from the federal government earlier this year.
  • The AZCares Fund will be used to distribute the funds, with allocations based on 2019 census data.
  • Local governments may use their allocation to cover regular payroll costs of public health and public safety personnel, freeing up existing local budget capacity.
  • The program is designed to provide maximum flexibility, while minimizing red tape.
  • El Paso Mayor Jenny Angel told local news that "The state's ability to allocate funds without rigid guidelines will be a game-changer for communities like ours that are still reeling from the COVID-19 outbreak."
  • Russell McCloud, Yuma County Supervisor, stated that "These dollars will help us continue the critical work of responding to this pandemic and protecting public health."
  • Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat expressed appreciation for the streamlined funding process, saying "My thanks to Governor Ducey for his work to streamline this funding so we can put it to use quickly and efficiently."
  • Christian Price, City of Maricopa Mayor, highlighted the importance of flexibility in allocating these resources, stating "The Governor's thoughtful approach has given us the maximum flexibility in how we can use these dollars to meet the needs of our citizens."
  • Gilbert Mayor Jenn Daniels emphasized the positive impact of the plan, saying "The AZCares Funds will lift all Arizona communities directly and with a focus on a safe and strong Arizona future."
  • Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke commended Governor Ducey for his support, stating "Thank you to the Governor for your support to Chandler communities and businesses, and for your work to make these dollars readily available."

Statistics:

  • The plan allocates $441 million in direct, flexible funding to local cities, towns, and counties.
  • The AZCares Fund will provide $150 million to expedite FEMA reimbursement requests.
  • The funds will be distributed based on 2019 census data.
  • Local governments may use their allocation to cover regular payroll costs of public health and public safety personnel.
  • The program aims to provide maximum flexibility, while minimizing red tape.
  • The plan includes expedited delivery of resources for eligible projects related to COVID-19 response efforts.

Sources:

  • AZGovenor.gov: AZCares Fund Allocations (final allocations)
  • AZGovenor.gov: Arizona Express Pay Program
  • ArizonaTogether.org: Public Assistance Initiative and Grant Opportunities
  • Gov. Doug Ducey's official press release: AZGovenor.gov: Governor Ducey Announces $600 Million Coronavirus Relief and Recovery Plan

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