Human Relations Commission budget moves ARPA-funded staff into general fund; council urged to support outside fundraising

Council and administration staff presented the Human Relations Commission (HRC) budget and said about $80,000 of staffing previously paid with ARPA funds has been absorbed into the general fund for 2026.

The HRC's executive director, Claire Toomey, was not at the hearing; the mayor and other staff reviewed the commission's budget. Staff said the commission will receive increased Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) reimbursements and will carry over special-project funds from prior grants for downtown business anti-discrimination work and youth coalition initiatives.

Council members expressed concern about sustaining the HRC without one-time ARPA support. One council member said relying on another $80,000 from general-fund reserves is not sustainable, urged fundraising and community support, and noted the HRC has been the largest such budget in recent years. Staff said the city is continuing federal grant compliance work (FHAP funding) and is working to ensure matching or reimbursable funds can be claimed.

Staff also suggested updating program labels ("holiday luncheon" to "diversity dinner") and noted there is an anticipated surplus to carry into next year for the commission.

Ending: Council and staff agreed to continue monitoring grant reimbursement timing and to work with the HRC on fundraising and program remediation so the commission can sustain operations without recurring one-time funds.