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WESTFORD — The Select Board has approved a number of new American Rescue Plan Act projects as it awaits the remainder of its second round of funding from the federal government.
ARPA funding was first allocated to Westford in August of last year. The town received its first round of federal funding to replace lost revenue, invest in infrastructure such as water and broadband and support the health and economic well-being of the community. The first round totaled $3,708,985.42
This funding differs from other federal grants since the town does not need to submit a request for reimbursement. Rather, the town can allocate its funding directly, as long as it meets the Department of the Treasury’s requirements. Once the Select Board votes to allocate the funding, the funding can be used, according to Westford Town Accountant Jesse Beyer.
The town began the fiscal year on July 1 with a remaining balance of $148,385,42 in funding. It has received over $1.2 million from the Department of the Treasury and is waiting on a final payment of approximately $2.4 million from the program.
A complete list of recently approved projects can be found below.
- $90,000 for assessment and addition of additional surveillance cameras within the schools.
- $20,594 for active assailant training for the Police Department, Fire Department and Public Safety Communications Department.
- $8,457.06 for supplemental funding for the purchase of a Chevy Silverado 3500 for the Facilities Department. This vehicle is to replace an older plow truck that is in disrepair. The funding was originally approved during a June 11 Town Meeting.
- $1,539.20 for supplemental funding for a Ford Transit cargo van for the Facilities Department. The funding was originally approved during a June 11 Town Meeting.
The board approved $120,529.26 worth of projects in a unanimous vote. The town has a remaining balance of $1,146,732.56 in funding as of Aug. 23.
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