August is a month of celebrations. We are celebrating National Dog Month, National Hair Loss Awareness Month, Back to School Month, American Artist Appreciation Month, Family Fun Month, Happiness Happens Month, National Family Meals Month and American Adventures Month.
Most importantly, it’s the month of approving American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding in the City of Flint. The carefully selected ARPA Advisory Committee composed of residents from ALL WARDS worked diligently to present Council with viable “suggestions” for the Community Grants. All 222 non-profit applications are looking to indirectly impact every single resident by supporting Homeowner Education/Home Repair, Public Health, Neighborhood Improvement, and much more.
Although it is our goal to directly touch as many Flintstones as possible, we must recognize that our resources are limited. Residents in favor of more money for home repair must remember that money must be moved out of other areas such as city tree removal, streetlights, speed humps, blight, and other essential areas to accommodate that request. Moreover, qualified residents must live in the residence for at least a year, meet the low to moderate ARPA income guidelines and be current on all property taxes and water fees (or involved in a payment plan). Please log on to https://www.michigan.gov/mshda/Homeownership/mihaf-homeowner-assistance for more COVID related financial assistance.
Sincere congratulations are in order for our new appointees. Charlotte Edwards was appointed to the Hurley Board of Hospital Managers and Toni Promenchenkel (4th Ward) was appointed to the City-Wide Advisory Council (CWAC). Moreover, long time Flint Resident and community advocate Candice Mushatt was appointed to be the interim councilperson for the 7th Ward. Mushatt is replacing former Council President Allie Herkenroder, who officially resigned on July 1. The Council looks forward to collaborating with Councilperson Mushatt as we continue to move our city in a positive direction.
The Flint City Council is looking to return to their newly renovated and ADA accessible chambers in August. Please contact the City Council Secretary at (810) 766-7418 for more information.
Yours In Service,
Councilperson Ladel Lewis
