Recently I’ve read several articles about the disposition of the American Rescue Plan Act funds, both nationally and locally. I became curious about how the $13.5 million awarded to Auburn is being allocated.

Mayor Jason Levesque appointed an ad hoc committee to oversee distribution, which included two city councilors and several city employees. So far, about $9.6 million has been awarded.

ARPA directs state and local entities receiving grants to “Build a strong, resilient, and equitable recovery by making investments that support long-term growth and opportunity.” In order to meet an “equitable” standard, funds need to be directed predominantly to those most adversely affected by the pandemic, which includes low-income households, frontline workers, and communities of color.

I was pleased to see an award to the Auburn PAL Community Center ($3 million), monies for premium pay for first responders ($200,000) and support for outdoor recreation spaces ($100,000).

There are many other valuable investments on the list, but few of these directly target low-income households or communities of color.

It is my understanding that either a new committee is to be formed, or perhaps the original one reconvened. I would urge the mayor to include members of the public who represent those targeted populations on the committee, and to reach out to these communities as he seeks to distribute the remaining $4 million.

Only then will the goal of “equitable” recovery be met.

Susan Trask, Auburn