Evansville Mayor Terry Advocates $1.05M ARPA Fund Transfer for Community Initiatives

The Evansville City Council meeting on March 31, 2025, focused on proposed amendments to the 2025 budget, specifically the allocation of $1,050,000 in interest earned from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund. Mayor Stephanie Terry presented two key initiatives aimed at addressing community needs: the "Fight Blight" program and the "Forward Together" grants.

The first initiative, "Fight Blight," seeks to combat vacant and deteriorating properties in Evansville. Mayor Terry explained that the allocation of $550,000 would enable the city to triple the number of blighted structures demolished in 2025, with a goal of preparing at least 150 properties for demolition by the end of the year. This effort is crucial, as a recent housing needs report indicated that Evansville requires 4,000 new housing units over the next five years. The mayor emphasized that removing blight not only reduces crime and fire risks but also paves the way for new development and increased property tax revenue.

The second initiative involves the "Forward Together" grants, which will distribute $500,000 to 18 nonprofit organizations providing essential services such as housing, transportation, mental health support, youth development, and homeless services. Mayor Terry noted that there were 79 applications for these grants, totaling over $2.5 million, and that the selected projects demonstrated long-term sustainability and community impact.

During the meeting, a council member announced their intention to abstain from the vote due to a conflict of interest, as their organization was among the grant recipients. Public comments included concerns about the transparency of the nonprofit organizations receiving funding, with one resident questioning the appropriateness of certain recipients.

In response, city officials clarified that the list of funded organizations was made public in January and is available on the city’s website. They reassured attendees that the funds being allocated are derived from interest on the ARPA funds, which do not have restrictions on spending.

The council ultimately moved forward with the vote, reflecting a commitment to addressing housing and community service needs in Evansville. The meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to revitalize neighborhoods and support vulnerable populations through targeted funding initiatives.