For the second straight budget cycle, the pandemic is rearing its ugly head in Alexandria.
In a virtual town hall last night, Mayor Justin Wilson offered a look at the behind-the-scenes back and forth between local, state and federal agencies as the city works to get some assistance to help cover an estimated $41 million shortfall.
Last year, the city was the recipient of $23.9 million in CARES Act funding, which was put to use in things like rent and food assistance and couldn’t be used to cover other city expenses. The new federal assistance does not include local or state support, though, Wilson said, though he is hopeful a Democratic majority in the Senate can help to amend that.
“The Heroes Act adopted by house did include $87 million for Alexandria, which would have nearly replaced our estimated loss of revenue that we had assumed because of COVID,” Wilson said.
Last April, the pandemic forced Council to approve a drastically reduced Fiscal Year 2021 budget.
Beyond the immediate budget gap, concerns linger that it could be several years before the city’s economy fully recovers from a pandemic that permanently shut down businesses across the city and led to record unemployment that is gradually returning to normal levels.
“Right now, we’re facing a $41 million gap in the budget we will be working to adopt this spring,” Wilson said. “It’s a significant gap for us and we have more concerns down the line.”
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If you have been thinking about buying your first home or haven’t owned one in the last three years, THIS IS FOR YOU!
In the DMV area, it can be difficult to save the downpayment necessary for you to get into your own home. We have a solution. The Funder’s Summit!
We have assembled a summit with different municipalities to tell you how to access their funds for your home purchase.
Our local therapy practice is delighted to welcome Stacey Cali, Resident in Counseling, who has openings now for new clients. Stacey specializes in therapy for women, couples, teens and families. A graduate of George Mason University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Masters Program, Stacey is also passionate about working with people with addiction.
Stacey’s approach: “Therapy’s a powerful combination of reflection, support and action. You’ll find sessions are filled with empowerment, compassion, goal setting and a metaphorical shovel to dig deep to find the root of your difficulties and how to move past them.”
Adds Stacey, “As a therapist who works with women, teens, couples and families, I use a personalized style of counseling, tailored to you as an individual. You’re the expert in your life, I’m just here to guide you towards transformation and healing.”
2023 Alexandria Fall Festival
Food trucks, bounce houses, pony rides, magic shows and more at the 2023 Alexandria Fall Festival, an Alexandria Living event presented by The Patterson Group. Join us at River Farm on Sunday, Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
