A supplemental appropriation by the Mount Vernon City Council will allow the city to secure $750,000 in federal funding for the Fairgrounds Road Utility Improvements and Resurfacing Project. The funds do not need to be spent this year.
According to a transcript of the December 16 special council meeting, Auditor Paul Mayville said that while city funds will be used initially, Mount Vernon will receive grant funds for the project. City Engineer Brian Ball explained that this joint project with the Knox County Commission and Knox County Engineer requires appropriation now for its scheduled start in 2025.
The transcript noted that Ball informed the city council that since the federal funding is through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), it must be appropriated in 2024. Failure to do so would require returning the ARPA funds. He added that this appropriation serves as a temporary measure until construction begins in 2025.
Minutes from the city council's August 12 meeting revealed that the Utilities Committee discussed advertising for bids and entering into a contract for the Fairgrounds Road project. The county is contributing $750,000 in ARPA funds, while the city is providing $150,000 from Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) funding. The OPWC funds will be used for road resurfacing.
According to these minutes, Ball mentioned that the area has experienced water outages. Councilmember John Ruckman, chair of the committee, said that water tap-ins won't be mandatory and residents can retain their septic tanks if they choose. Ball added that water lines are necessary for Heartland Commerce Park and its vicinity, with each building having its own water account.
