Gilmer County is taking a different approach to CARES Act funding set aside for aiding the county during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
“We’re making that our top priority right now because we do not want to give back any of that money,” Chairman Charlie Paris said.
As part of the legislation, $1.5 million was designated for Gilmer County. Paris said he discovered they were going to have to justify spending to cover the whole amount by Sept. 1.
At the same time, he realized all public safety salaries, other than administration, are eligible for the CARES Act funding.
“That was a game changer,” Paris said. “It’s much simpler, much more direct, and that’s the direction we’re going in now.”
Public safety salaries for six months which are eligible for funding total $1.7 million.
Paris expects this to smooth out the process. Once the money is approved it will go into the general fund and can then be used to purchase some of the priorities for dealing with coronavirus in Gilmer County.
First up is a fifth ambulance for the county.
“With the COVID calls we are getting, the calls have increased to the point we need an extra ambulance,” Paris said.
Other priorities include another stretcher for the ambulance, a minimum of two Lucas Devices for CPR and maintaining personal protective gear for public safety employees.