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Chair proposes reimbursing BIA $429,000 for mobile library bus to reduce ARPA exposure
Summary
Facing uncertainty about a mult-million-dollar library build, the Chair suggested reimbursing the BIA for a recently purchased mobile library bus (cost cited at $429,000) as a way to lock value in hand while the appraisal and funding plan proceed.
Committee members discussed whether to reimburse the BIA for a mobile library bus the group had already purchased for $429,000 and which the BIA said had partial grant support.
The Chair proposed reimbursing the cost of the bus now so the BIA would have money "locked up" rather than risking ARPA dollars on a large acquisition that might not appraise or secure follow‑on funding. "If you gave me the bus and I reimbursed you for that, you would have that money locked up," the Chair said. BIA counsel and board members warned reimbursement alone would not bridge the gap to complete construction and emphasized compliance with federal rules and due diligence.
The committee asked staff to check with city accountants (UHY) about whether a partial reimbursement is administratively feasible and to determine whether any reimbursement would conflict with ARPA restrictions on mixing funds. No reimbursement decision was made at the meeting.
