Melrose to Receive $150,000 in COVID-19 Spending Grant

BOSTON – Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian and Senator Jason Lewis were proud to secure a $150,000 authorization for the City of Melrose’s efforts on COVID-19 monitoring, treatment, containment, public awareness, and prevention.

The funding authorization, initially sponsored by Representative Lipper-Garabedian, was included in House Bill 4808, An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2020 to authorize certain COVID-19 spending in anticipation of federal reimbursement, that Governor Baker signed on July 24.

“Six months ago, the responsibilities of state and local governments and corresponding budget projections and plans were remarkably different from those today,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “I am glad to be in a position to work with Mayor Brodeur to draft and sponsor the funding authorization included in the recently enacted COVID-19 spending bill. With federal reimbursement, these monies can used to enhance Melrose’s ongoing activities to support residents during this public health pandemic.”

“The public health emergency, economic recession, and uncertainty about the future facing our cities and towns make it more important than ever for state and local leaders to work together closely and effectively,” said Senator Jason Lewis. “I’m proud that the legislative delegation was able to secure this important funding and support the community during this challenging time.”

 “This funding enables the Melrose community to continue to respond to COVID-19 in the ways that have been most effective,” said Melrose Mayor Paul Brodeur. “I thank the state delegation for its partnership in supporting our local efforts.”