The City Administration is seeking proposals from the community for projects which are eligible to receive funding courtesy of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). There is still roughly $20 million remaining from the $75 million the City received to allocate to projects, people, businesses, and organizations with a focus on those most impacted by COVID-19.

Mayor Nicholson’s Administration and the City Council are seeking proposals from local community-based organizations, non-profits, and businesses that are eligible to receive ARPA funding and are aligned with the City of Lynn’s spending and strategic priorities. Community organizations can request funding through an application form on LynnARPA.com. The City’s schedule for vetting Phase II applications includes reopening applications this week; closing applications in mid-October; publicizing projects in early November; and going before the City Council for a vote on November 22, 2022. The proposed projects must be obligated/contracted by December 31, 2024 and all project funds must be spent by December 31, 2026. The City’s Application Guidelines for ARPA Project Funding webpage provides more information about eligibility and the evaluation/selection process.

Please be aware that the collection of project submittals will close at midnight on October 17, 2022. The City is working to consolidate project applications and leverage other state and federal resources to maximize Lynn’s ARPA funding, however, this will be the final opportunity to apply for this one-time revenue resource. It is important to note that funds may not be placed in reserves, or used to pay settlements or other judgments, nor may funds be used to pay debts or fees related to issuing debt.

Organizations that sent in a project proposal for ARPA investment during the Phase I Submittal Period last spring are encouraged to fill out a shorter application form for returning applicants, as the City already has their standard documentation and agency information on file.

Several community meetings are in the process of being scheduled throughout September and October for applicants that would like assistance submitting their project ideas. Meeting details will be made available when the dates and times are finalized. Additional translation services will be made available upon request.