The City of Gerald is slated to receive $241,840 under the American Rescue Plan. This would be the city’s portion of the $5.3 billion awarded to the State of Missouri. 

The money will come in two separate deposits. The first is expected within 60 to 90 days. The second installment will arrive in about 12 months. 

This was announced to the public in a workshop held Thursday, March 25. 

Ward 1 Alderman Angela Koepke arrived at the workshop with the beginnings of a plan for the funds. Koepke’s plan focused on needs at the park. While it is unclear that the funds can be used for the park, which is a separate taxing entity from the city, Koepke urged her fellow aldermen to firm up some plans, so they are ready to go if the money is released. 

The board had already discussed replacing the windows and painting the exterior of Legion hall in Legion park. As Koepke pushed, they hammered out the details and agreed on plan for the renovations. 

A safety issue with a slide in City Park was also addressed and a remedy decided. 

The ball park light poles were also agreed to be a safety issue. This problem could cost up to $15,000 to solve, but the Gerald Athletic Association has agreed to pay a portion of those costs. 

Koepke also suggested providing shade and seating near the playground at Legion Park, upgrading landscaping at both parks and paving parking lots and roads. 

Not all of these projects can be undertaken, but Koepke asked the board set priorities. She noted that her suggestions centered around the city’s parks. She asked if the other aldermen had suggestions on ways to use the money for other projects in the city. None did. 

Hopefully, they will all spend some time considering the best way to spend the money. It is unusual for the city to find itself with such a windfall. It is a rare chance to help the city advance.