In Tuesday’s special meeting, the new Susanville city council continued to grapple with allocating the final balance of APRA funds. City Manager Dan Newton assigned them the task of identifying three to five priority projects for the funds set aside for community benefit.
During the meeting, various voices from the community spoke up, advocating for specific initiatives. Maestro Ben Wade and Sierra Theatre owner Mandy Smith championed the transformation of the Sierra Theatre into a performing arts center. While Larry Rogers of the Susanville Elks expressed disappointment at the lack of consideration for their lodge, highlighting its struggles during the pandemic. The group seeks funds to repair its balcony and paint the historic building.
Pickleball enthusiasts sought funding to resurface Memorial Park tennis courts for their growing group. However, City Manager Newton mentioned ongoing progress in that regard, suggesting ARPA funds could offset the costs if the council so chooses.
Other concerns raised included enhancing the city’s infrastructure, bolstering code enforcement efforts, and addressing the aging fire department equipment, notably a 30-year-old fire engine.
In response, the council directed staff to explore projects such as supporting the Susanville Symphony and the Elks Lodge, as well as drafting plans for code enforcement enhancements, historical museum storage, and Susanville Little League bathroom repairs.
Despite the deliberations, the council approved Newton’s proposal to allocate over $1 million of the ARPA funds. These funds will be used for initiatives like the city’s general plan update, repairs to municipal buildings including Susanville City Hall, Fire Department, and Police Department, and a marketing campaign to stimulate economic recovery and tourism.
As the council continues to deliberate on fund allocation, further discussions on the final distributions are anticipated.
