County staff provided a brief update Sept. 18 on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) projects and an ARPA‑funded small‑business grant program managed by the local Economic Development Corporation. Kathy (last name not stated at the meeting) told the board the EDC had received 87 applications for the business grant and that staff will continue to provide monthly updates on expenditures and project status.

During follow-up, County Board Member Samantha Carter asked why she had not been consulted on a recent EDC meeting; staff responded that communications had occurred during the drafting of the agreement in 2023–24 and that Carter had not been part of later meetings. No formal action was taken; staff said the county would continue to keep the board updated as the EDC reviews applications.