Relief to the tune of $191 million was approved by San Antonio City Council last week to support residents who have been financially affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
The COVID-19 Recovery and Resiliency Plan will focus on four areas of need: $50.5 million for housing, $75 million for workforce development, $38.1 million for small businesses and $27.3 million to lessen the digital divide. Federal CARES Act funds must be spent by December 31.
Several organizations including the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center and the Texas Organizing Project pushed for Thursday’s vote to be delayed to allow time for more community input about where funds should be invested.
What data and methodology was used in deciding how to divvy up funds? What are the areas of most need? Was stakeholder and community input incorporated into the process?
How much money is slated for local nonprofits? Who qualifies for financial assistance and how can families and businesses apply to receive aid?
Will this be enough financial support to get San Antonio through the devestating economic fallout from COVID-19?
Guests:
- Mayor Ron Nirenberg, City of San Antonio
- Erik Walsh, San Antonio City Manager
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*This interview was recorded on Wednesday, June 10.
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