The agenda is here: chicityclerkelms.chicago.gov/Meeting/?meeti…

Public comment began with George Blakemore, who I think of often but will not quote. The last few speakers have been more visibly angry with Alder Jason Ervin, who is chairing this meeting. blockclubchicago.org/2022/02/21/chi…

Had trouble keeping up with the slides/handouts from this meeting, but they’re discussing the 2024 ARPA Road to Recovery Plan Performance Report, outlining the use of $1.887 billion in federal funds aimed at uplifting Chicago’s most vulnerable communities. chicago.gov/city/en/depts/…

A representative from the Office of Budget and Management is answering questions from alders, multiple of whom are requesting more specific information on what amount of money/services is going to their ward and which communities.

Alder Greg Mitchell (7th) echoed the need for more info and talked about the need to use this money to address vacant lots on the South and West Sides. OBM representative discusses how some went to collect data on these properties and tee this up for the future.

Alder Andre Vasquez (40th) asks about what will happen to some of these programs and if they can or will be sustained after federal funding wraps up. OBM representative mentions this is planned for a future report.

Now, they’re discussing amendments for funding to different city agencies. Chicago Dept of Public Health is receiving money for HIV prevention/treatment programs. Chicago Dept of Transportation is receiving funding for a congestion-mitigating program and bridge construction.

Alder Ervin (28th) wants to see CDPH working with smaller, Black-led organizations on HIV/AIDS. CDPH representative talks about funding set aside for organizations that have not worked for CDPH before and setting up those relationships now.

They’ve voted yes to discuss further. Now, Chicago Department of Planning and Development is now presenting an amendment to increase funding for grantees and address challenges that have kept some from completing projects.

Alders Mitchell (7th), Moore (17th), and Lee (11th) asked about helping businesses and grantees better navigate the process. A DPD representative talked about quarterly webinars and outreach initiatives in multiple languages.

They’re currently tapping into organizations with training programs, like the Chicago Urban League and Women’s Business Development Center, which could help applicants think through capital improvements that could help your business.

Plant Chicago is requesting $825,000 to renovate a former firehouse at 4459 S. Marshfield Ave. and make it a space for indoor gardening, STEM education, and retail space. Alder Lopez (15th) gave a letter of support. The committee voted yes. More info: chicago.gov/city/en/depts/…

The last few items are approved. With no further business before the board, the meeting is adjourned.

Committee on Budget and Government Operations meeting ends at 1:37 PM. This ends my coverage for @chidocumenters. For more meeting coverage, check out Nato’sha Trotter’s notes which will be published very soon: chicago.documenters.org