The Plumas County Board of Supervisors authorized the allocation of federal funds to aid in the county’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with a total of $481,000 distributed in various amounts. Each of the county’s four chambers of commerce and the Indian Valley Innovation Hub received $45,000, while the remaining funds went to other entities such as the Plumas County Library and the county administrative office. Initially, $375,000 was earmarked for broadband infrastructure, but due to budget constraints in California, these funds were reallocated to other projects.
The funds, part of the American Rescue Plan Act, must be used by the end of 2024. Plumas County received $3.65 million in 2022, and by early December, nearly $500,000 remained unspent. The county grants manager, Zachary Gately, suggested using the funds for technology and economic development.
The supervisors had previously allocated ARPA money to various projects, including COVID sick leave, information technology, and library services. They also distributed $540,000 among small businesses and nonprofit organizations affected by the pandemic. The largest allocation was $1.8 million for broadband services, but only a portion was spent. With a deadline approaching, Gately proposed redirecting unspent funds to the chambers and library for mobile hotspots.
While some supervisors expressed concerns about accountability and the shift in priorities, the board approved the reallocation with a 4-1 vote. Potential conflicts of interest were acknowledged, with some supervisors recusing themselves from certain votes. The allocation to chambers sparked debate about fund management, with suggestions to align spending with federal economic development strategies.
Approximately $47,000 will support innovations at county libraries, including tutoring and computer services. The remaining funds will cover Gately’s salary and grant management expenses for two years.
