Several members of the Peoria city council want to hold off on drastic cuts in hopes of a new federal stimulus package coming. And Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis says the city is "toast" without it.
Rep. Darin LaHood (R-Peoria) says finding the money for Peoria and other cities is a top priority when the House reconvenes this month. And unlike the CARES Act, LaHood says he wants to cut out the middleman: the states.
"Let's give the money directly to the cities and municipalities," he said. "I have found that in my district, that they are the best and most responsible when it comes to taxpayer money. Federal tax dollars."
LaHood says he won't support helping the state of Illinois out of its pension hole with federal dollars. But he favors more funding for cities that are suffering "through no fault of their own" as a result of COVID-19.
Peoria's bipartisan congressional delegation is also asking for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to allow cities to alter how it uses grants traditionally allocated for new firefighter hiring.
Congressman Darin LaHood says it's needed with 33 firefighter jobs on the line as Peoria tries to balance its COVID-19 blasted budget.
"What we're asking for is for FEMA, for really a one-time change, asking them to change their grant so the money can be diverted," LaHood said. "Instead of hiring new firefighters, allowing the city to use that money to retain firefighters so we don't have to lay them off."
LaHood said changing the grant rules could save up to five Peoria firefighter jobs.
We’re living in unprecedented times when information changes by the minute. WCBU will continue to be here for you, keeping you up-to-date with the live, local and trusted news you need. Help ensure WCBU can continue with its in-depth and comprehensive COVID-19 coverage as the situation evolves by making a contribution.
