Bangor reviews ARPA spending; council set to decide in June whether to reassign interest for Together Place

City Manager Debbie Lohrey reviewed the status of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) beneficiary awards at a Bangor City Council workshop on May 19, saying most projects "appear to be on track" and highlighting childcare, homelessness and housing investments.

Lohrey told the council that, as of the report, Bangor had received $20,400,000 in ARPA funds through March 31, 2025; $7,150,000 had been disbursed to beneficiaries and $13,300,000 remained in a segregated bank account but was fully obligated to federal requirements. She said unallocated interest as of April totaled $210,706, "and that assumes that you still allocate the $3.75 for Together Place housing," per the packet.

Why it matters: ARPA awards fund capital and operating projects across childcare, homelessness response and affordable housing that the city said are intended to expand capacity and services in Bangor.

Child care: Lohrey said 18.8% of Bangor's ARPA award was dedicated to child care. She reported progress on three major recipients: Bangor Children's Home, which is completing building repairs including roof and window work; the Bangor YMCA, which the city awarded $2,000,000 (Penobscot County contributed $3,000,000) and is in its final fundraising…