Inez council allocates ARPA funds for signs, approves historic high-school marker and agrees to pursue multiple grants

At its Nov. 14 meeting, the City of Inez agreed to allocate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for new city signage, approved a historic high-school memorial sign, and authorized staff to pursue multiple grant opportunities to offset marquee-sign costs.

Council discussed material costs and bids: pole costs were estimated at $250 each (six poles, $1,500), three signs were quoted at $789 total, and framing work was discussed with an approximate additional cost the mayor estimated at up to $500. After those allocations the mayor reported an ARPA balance of $24,504.28.

Commissioners moved to approve a 4-by-6 brick memorial sign for the old Linus High School site at an estimated cost of $1,832.36, noting that Kenton (a local donor) would donate labor to install the piece and that salvaged materials (a cornerstone and wood flooring) were to be incorporated. Commissioner Penick moved the motion to approve the historic-site sign and Commissioner Collier seconded; the motion passed by voice vote.

The council also discussed festival funding, with the mayor proposing $16,000 for festivals next year; commissioners agreed to proceed and city staff noted grant-application steps and filing through the treasury. Staff identified three grant programs to pursue: State Farm Neighborhood Assistance (awards of about $25,000), a Marathon Petroleum community grant, and Amgen Foundation community grants (some awards listed in the discussion as up to $200,000). City staff said applications would be prepared and submitted promptly.

On signage, the council reviewed vendor quotes for a marquee sign (quotes ranged widely, including a vendor quote near $25,000 and others higher); commissioners asked staff to seek grants and additional bids. The meeting record shows the council endorsed ordering the three smaller signs and proceeding with the historic marker.

Other administrative items handled in the same meeting included routine approvals (bills, minutes), authorization to pay the water bill electronically to avoid penalties, and approval of two vacation days for a staff member. The council agreed to draft and circulate a signed form letter regarding loose animals and identified that the animal-shelter expansion and correct contact name remain to be confirmed.

Why it matters: The allocations and approvals use ARPA funding for visible, place-making investments and pursue outside grants to limit the city’s direct cost exposure. The historic sign preserves a local site; grant applications could affect whether larger capital projects move forward.

Next steps: Staff to prepare and submit grant applications, post or file required documents with the treasury, and bring implementation details (installation schedules, vendor contracts) back to the council as needed.