Vernon County Commission works on ARPA funding application process

Vernon County Commissioners Everett Wolfe (Southern Commissioner), Joe Wilson (Presiding Commissioner), and Cindy Thompson (Northern Commissioner) discussed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and upcoming meetings to be held in conjunction with the county during Tuesday's meeting.

Photo by Sarah Haney | Daily Mail Editor

The Vernon County Commission met in regular session Tuesday in the Vernon County Courthouse.

Northern Commissioner Cindy Thompson noted that the commission has received 11 applications for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds so far. Thompson stated that there is a little over $3.9 million to be allocated from the funds. These funds will go towards improvements in the categories of broadband, economic development, rural fire departments, and water districts. It was noted that Sheldon has applied for funds, as well as Water District #1, Nevada Regional Medical Center, and Vernon County.

Thompson added that the commission hopes to have the application and allocation process completed by the end of first quarter in March.

The Commission also plans to have a 3% sales tax on marijuana sales measure added to the April ballot. Presiding Commissioner Joe Wilson noted that the Commission is in support of the tax and hopes it passes, citing that it would be good additional revenue to the county.

Other items of note include the upcoming annual township meeting, to be held at Centennial Hall on March 13. Items to be discussed at this meeting include renewal of the Hazard Mitigation Plan; County Aid Road Trust (CART) money; bridge concerns; and County Clerk Adrienne Lee will go over elections and tax levies.

The County Commissioners will also be attending the County Commissioner Association of Missouri Annual Conference March 1-3. They've also scheduled the Spring Cleanup for April 22.