White House Adviser Joins Pima County Officials to Showcase Power of Federal Investments

Pima County officials disclosed on Friday how they have effectively utilized federal funding over the past three-and-a-half years to address pressing community issues. Chair Adelita Grijalva highlighted the county’s commitment to developing “sustainable, tangible” programs during a meeting with Tom Perez, a senior advisor to President Joe Biden.

Perez acknowledged the innovative use of funds derived from significant congressional legislation, such as the American Rescue Plan Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “This funding is unprecedented in scope and scale,” he remarked, asserting the importance of seizing opportunities during times of crisis.

County representatives shared specific allocations, including $82.3 million for emergency rental assistance aimed at preventing evictions and securing shelter for families. An ambitious $30.3 million project to enhance internet access through a 135-mile fiber optic network was also discussed, alongside $16 million dedicated to public health initiatives and nearly $40 million for transportation infrastructure improvements.

Since 2019, Pima County has allocated $117.7 million to shelter over 500,000 asylum seekers, primarily families. Administrator Jan Lesher pointed out that, if consolidated, the unincorporated areas of Pima County would emerge as the fourth largest municipality in Arizona.

Dr. Francisco Garcia, deputy county administrator and chief medical officer, emphasized the importance of showcasing how federal resources are being utilized creatively to benefit the community. He noted that nearly $83 million in federal funds augmented eviction prevention efforts, allowing the county to offer emergency legal services and comprehensive support to over 2,350 households to help them remain in their homes.

The county’s approach has focused on addressing eviction immediately to prevent homelessness, particularly for vulnerable families. Garcia reported that 84 percent of those assisted have successfully secured permanent housing, highlighting the effectiveness of timely intervention.

Additionally, Garcia presented initiatives funded by $60 million from the CDC, which has helped create new public health positions and address issues related to environmental justice. The county has set up cooling centers in underserved areas, aiming to mitigate heat-related health risks.

Moreover, the county is embarking on a significant fiber-optic project to improve digital access, addressing the notable gap in internet connectivity; approximately 10 percent of households lack broadband access. This network will allow internet service providers to lease access, thereby benefiting users within a 25-mile radius.

Perez, while addressing the current challenges facing the immigration system, stressed the need for comprehensive reforms. Referring to recent bipartisan immigration discussions that stalled, he expressed disappointment at the lack of cooperation in Congress, describing the immigration system as a “28-year-old jalopy.” He called for urgent reform to enable a pathway to citizenship and better border management.

In the wake of criticisms surrounding FEMA’s disaster funding, Perez asserted that federal disaster response resources remain intact and are not diverted from other areas. He reiterated confidence in upcoming Congressional considerations regarding the Shelter and Services Program to support local governments, including Pima County.

As several prominent officials visit Tucson, the broader narrative reflects Biden’s administration’s pivotal moment to address systemic issues amid economic recovery and immigration challenges. Perez’s observations underscore a pressing need for collaboration in Congress to innovate and enact lasting reforms.