Featured photo: Rev. Monica Villarreal from Michigan United cut the cake after the City Council meeting
to celebrate the passage of this historic budget. Photos provided by Michigan United
FLINT, MI – On Monday, October 24th, Michigan United and community members were front and center to
urge the Flint City Council to adopt resolution #220464.1, the American Rescue Plan Act Allocation Plan.
After hours of discussion and negotiation, the Flint City Council made history by adopting the resolution with six council members voting in favor of the resolution and three council members abstaining.
Community members celebrated this as a long-sought victory.
Pastor Shearese Stapleton stated: “The time spent [Monday night] with Council was worth it. When people have to make hard decisions, it can be an uncomfortable space. I thank the Flint Council for starting the process to help the people of Flint gain ground on being a safe space for children and adults to thrive and live.”
The City of Flint received $94.7 million in ARPA funding to address the social and economic impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic. The ARPA Allocation Plan adopted by the City Council will go to Mayor Sheldon Neeley for consideration.
“We urge Mayor Neeley to consider the impact that these ARPA dollars will have for the City of Flint and to respond to the voices of the people by signing off on this plan so that together we can move Flint
forward,” said Rev. Monica Villarreal, Michigan United.
This was a collective effort by groups across the city of Flint that want to see this historic investment be used to recover from the pandemic and address the systemic inequities that have harmed Black and Brown
communities in this Flint for generations.
“This was a great effort of both government, city council and the administration, along with philanthropy and community-based agencies and programs, as well as with residents of Flint, coming together to create the best potential for healing in our community,” stated Rev. Dr. Sarah Bailey, CEO Bridges into the Future, Inc.
The ARPA funds are historic dollars for a historic time.
“This is a turning point for our city,” said Linda Pohly, Flint resident.
“Now we have the opportunity to transform our neighborhoods and make this city a healthier and safer place for everyone to live,” Pohly continued “Let’s get to work.”
Many residents have been calling upon the council to stop hurling personal attacks and work better together.
The lengthy discussion time on ARPA and willingness to entertain amendments showed the power of
democracy. Residents are grateful to the Flint City Council for coming together and moving Flint forward.
“By coming together in unity, [council] has demonstrated what our country’s founding principles are all about;
and that’s working together for the greater good,” William C. Harris Jr., Flint resident.
“So many people will benefit from these funds!” Harris added.
Rev. Monica Villarreal from Michigan United cut the cake after the City Council meeting to celebrate the passage of this historic budget.
As the meeting concluded, community leaders came out with a cake to celebrate this victory and prepare for
the long work ahead.
LaRosa Patrick states: “The citizens of Flint have been waiting way too long for this ARPA funding. We are thankful that the Council was able to come together to collaborate, make decisions and approve the ARPA grant funding. This is a win for the citizens of Flint!”.
###
Michigan United is a broad, statewide coalition working to reform the immigration system, advance housing
justice, protect the rights of low-wage workers and develop leadership. More information can be found at Michigan at Michigan United’s website: www.miunited.org
