The Griggs County Commissioners convened on December 16, 2024, to discuss the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, emphasizing the urgency of committing these federal resources before the end of 2024. The meeting highlighted that Griggs County received approximately $400,000 in ARPA funds, intended to support projects that address revenue losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Commissioners were informed that while the funds must be committed by the end of next year, they do not need to be spent until 2026. This flexibility allows the county to plan for future expenses, such as new vehicles for the sheriff's department or road maintenance projects. A key recommendation from the discussion was to over-commit the funds to ensure that the county does not lose any money if projects change or are delayed.

The commissioners discussed the importance of using these funds to benefit taxpayers, with suggestions to prioritize projects that have been planned or discussed prior to the 2024 deadline. The meeting underscored the necessity of strategic planning to maximize the impact of the ARPA funds while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines. As the deadline approaches, the county aims to finalize its project list to secure the financial support needed for community improvements.