City to receive more money

Unexpected funds could be coming Elyria’s way in the upcoming months due to the CARES Act.

Originally, money sent to cities from the federal novel coronavirus relief act only went to those with populations of 500,000 or greater. Columbus was the only city in Ohio to qualify for the funds.

However, the state received some funding that now will be dispersed to local municipalities.

At Elyria City Council’s special meeting on June 24, Council members passed a resolution to receive funds from the CARES Act and spend the funds as regulated.

Mayor Frank Whitfield said the city is expected to receive $1.3 million to $1.6 million. The money must be spent on expenses Elyria didn’t expect as a result of the coronavirus.

Whitfield and his administration are working with the City Council and the Finance Department to distribute the funds.

Whitfield said the city was able to receive the funds due to conversations with the state regarding how COVID-19 has affected city budgets. According to Whitfield, the funds are much needed due to the decrease of local government funding over the years.

“I’m proud to see the numbers that look like they’re coming to our city but this won’t be enough. There’s going to need to be more,” he said. “We’re just now starting to feel some of the effects of the pandemic and we’re going to need more resources down the road.

“So this is a good first step, but there’s a lot more to do. There’s a lot more advocacy we need to do toward the state.”

In addition, council members also voted to allow for the city to apply for a grant from Northeast Ohio

“I’m proud to see the numbers that look like they’re coming to our city but this won’t be enough. There’s going to need to be more. We’re just now starting to feel some of the effects of the pandemic and we’re going to need more resources down the road.” — Mayor Frank Whitfield

Public Energy Council, or NOPEC, a nonprofit energy supplier. Elyria could receive about $140,000.

Money from the grant must be used toward improving energy efficiency within the city. The city has received the grant in the past used the funding on lighting around Ely Fountain downtown and lighting along Kerstetter Way.

“Obviously, it’s a good thing if a group is willing to put some money our way, especially this year now more than ever,” Law Director Amanda Deery said.