Committee reallocates $2.22M in ARPA funds to extend renters’ right‑to‑counsel legal services

The Metro Council Budget & Finance Committee on June 2 approved reallocation of $2,220,235 in American Rescue Plan Act funds to continue funding legal representation for low‑ and moderate‑income renters facing eviction.

Council member Soror, a sponsor of the measure, described the item as an extension of a pilot program started in 2020 and funded with ARPA dollars. She told the committee an independent study commissioned by the program showed a $5.10 return for every dollar invested, with measurable benefits for households and the county.

Finance staff confirmed the reallocation includes unspent funds from prior allocations (including a portion of funds associated with Shelby House) and said U.S. Treasury guidance allows reallocation among previously obligated ARPA activities to continue eviction‑defense work. Mary Jo Wiggins of Metro finance told the committee that the reallocated funds were a portion of previously obligated funds and that additional reallocation items would come forward in subsequent committee actions.

The committee voted unanimously to approve the reallocation, 11–0. Sponsors said the funds would extend the program through June 2026 and continue contracting for legal services to prevent displacement.

Council members asked for details about contract approvals that will follow and for copies of the independent report cited by the sponsor. Finance staff noted that because some contracts must come to council for approval, further items will be scheduled for committee review.