IOWA CITY

Johnson County’s General Assistance program has granted more than $1 million to needy residents over the last nine months and county supervisors want to see that assistance continue.

“I think this is one of the important things we do,” Supervisor Rod Sullivan said during the board’s work session March 22. “I think we’re seeing it’s making a difference, we’re seeing it’s needed.”

Since the program expanded in 2022, the amount of assistance in Fiscal Year 2023 has hit record levels. From July 1, 2022, through the end of February, 2023, more than $978,000 in funds were provided to help eligible residents pay rent and other expenses. With four months remaining in the current fiscal year, a record 797 households have already been assisted.

The General Assistance program has a current annual budget of $1.8 million in county and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, but ARPA funds are temporary and will run out in 2026.

“I want to figure out a way to keep this going,” Sullivan said.

“I just want to find the money,” said Supervisor Jon Green on Lone Tree.

Johnson County has the highest cost-of-living rate in the state, said Lynette Jacoby, Director of Johnson County Social Services.

The program’s expansion included raising the range of eligible applicants to those whose incomes go up to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines ($29,160 for a household of one; $60,000 for a household of four.)

Board Action

The Board approved a Resolution of Support in an application to the State of Iowa to qualify parts of Johnson County as a Broadband Intervention Zone. The program could help Johnson County and a number of internet service providers become eligible for state grants.

The Board set April 13 as its monthly night session for public hearings associated with a number of zoning and platting applications. The session begins at 5:30 p.m.

Next board meeting: The board will hold its next formal meeting at 9 a.m. March 30.