American Samoa Recovery Plan 

Performance Report

State and Local Fiscal Recovery 

Funds 2021 Report

Note: The Recovery Plan Performance Report will provide the public and Treasury information on the 

projects that recipients are undertaking with program funding and how they are planning to ensure 

program outcomes are achieved in an effective, efficient, and equitable manner. While this template

includes the minimum requirements for the Recovery Plan, each recipient is encouraged to add 

information to the plan that they feel is appropriate to provide information to their constituents on efforts 

they are taking to respond to the pandemic and promote an equitable economic recovery. 

Each jurisdiction may determine the general form and content of the Recovery Plan, as long as it 

meets the reporting requirements, and recipients are encouraged to tailor this template to best meet 

their needs. Use of infographics, tables, charts, pictures, case studies, and other explanatory elements 

are encouraged.

American Samoa 

2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report

Table of Contents

General Overview......................................................................................................................3

Executive Summary.................................................................................................................3

Uses of Funds .........................................................................................................................3

Promoting Equitable Outcomes ...............................................................................................4

Community Engagement .........................................................................................................5

Labor Practices .......................................................................................................................5

Use of Evidence ......................................................................................................................5

Table of Expenses by Expenditure Category...........................................................................6

Project Inventory.......................................................................................................................8
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 1

Example Project .....................................................................................................................9

Additional Projects...................................................................................................................9

Ineligible Activities: Tax Offset Provision ............................................................................10
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 2

GENERAL OVERVIEW

Executive Summary 

In this section, provide a high-level overview of the jurisdiction’s intended and actual uses of 

funding including, but not limited to: the jurisdiction’s plan for use of funds to promote a 

response to the pandemic and economic recovery, key outcome goals, progress to date on 

those outcomes, and any noteworthy challenges or opportunities identified during the reporting 

period. See Section C(1) on page 24 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information. 

American Samoa remains the only part of the United States of America and its 

Territories that has been blessed with zero cases of locally transmitted COVID-19 virus. 

While we are grateful for this blessing, it was not accidental that American Samoa has 

remained COVID-19 free. It required tremendous sacrifice by the people of American 

Samoa to keep their loved ones safe and protected. We are fortunate to have the 

support and federal assistance of the various COVID-19 relief and recovery funds to 

help meet the challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health 

emergency declaration.

Our leaders drew upon the lessons of our history, specifically the 1918 Spanish 

pandemic that decimated our neighbors 80 miles to the West that lost an estimated 

20% of their population as their borders remained open during the critical early stages 

of the spread. As a result of the first Public Emergency Declaration in March 2020, 

American Samoa closed its borders as part of its strategy to mitigate the transmission 

of the Coronavirus that had grown to become a global pandemic. Our borders remain 

closed to regular commercial travel and all authorized travel by air or sea follow careful 

protocols to minimize the risk of exposure or transmission of the COVID-19 virus.

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan has been developed to address key territorial 

challenges that have been exacerbated as a result of the Public Emergency Declaration 

relating to our limited healthcare services and treatment capacity available in the 

Territory and the negative impact to our economic drivers as a result of the public 

health emergency declaration. 

American Samoa has a single acute medical facility to serve all its residents. The LBJ 

Hospital has a total of 124 medical beds and only 10 ICU beds to serve all 7 islands and 

a population of 52,000 residents. Increasing access to adequate healthcare services 

and improving treatment options available in American Samoa is a critical need for the 

territory and has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health 

emergency declaration restricting travel. Improving our healthcare services and 

treatment available in the territory is the highest priority of this administration to meet 

our healthcare needs and allow us to reopen our borders and be ready to respond 

should COVID-19 reach our shores. 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 3

Strengthening our seaport and airport facilities and improving sea transportation 

between the main island of Tutuila, the Manu’a Islands and Aunu’u are critical for

transporting supplies, developing businesses and access to healthcare services. The

inadequate state of these facilities has been highlighted under our public health 

emergency declarations and mitigation efforts to keep COVID-19 outside of our borders. 

Our entire society is 100 percent dependent on goods being able to flow through our 

single commercial port. Interruptions and delays, which were a common scenario due 

to the added vessel clearance and inspection protocols, had a direct and negative 

impact on our businesses and access to basic necessities. It cannot be overstated that 

our economy exists only so long as vessels are able to safely unload their cargo and 

commercial fishing vessels are able to be cleared to deliver their catch to the cannery 

for processing.

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan will allow much needed improvement to our 

water distribution system, where much of the piping is approaching 60 years in service. 

These aged pipes are estimated to be leaking up to 60% of water throughout the 

distribution system. 

Improving our connectivity and broadband access across the islands will be critical to 

ensuring American Samoa is better prepared to operate with the current COVID-19 

pandemic and to strengthen our broadband infrastructure for future challenges.

On behalf of the American Samoa Government and the people of American Samoa, we 

are truly grateful for the federal assistance these ARPA funds provide to address these 

critical territorial needs. We are committed to ensuring we implement and execute the 

American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan in accordance with the statutory and award 

guidelines. 

 

Uses of Funds

Describe in further detail your jurisdiction’s intended and actual uses of the funds, such 

as how your jurisdiction’s approach would help support a strong and equitable recovery 

from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn. Describe any strategies 

employed to maximize programmatic impact and effective, efficient, and equitable 

outcomes. Given the broad eligible uses of funds and the specific needs of the 

jurisdiction, explain how the funds would support the communities, populations, or 

individuals in your jurisdiction. Address how you are promoting each of the following

Expenditure Categories, to the extent they apply: 

a. Public Health (EC 1)

b. Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2)

c. Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities (EC 3)

d. Premium Pay (EC 4)
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 4

e. Water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure (EC 5)

f. Revenue Replacement EC 6)

Where appropriate, include information on your jurisdiction’s use (or planned use) of 

other federal recovery funds including other programs under the American Rescue Plan 

such as Emergency Rental Assistance, Housing Assistance, and so forth, to provide 

broader context on the overall approach for pandemic recovery.

See Section C(2) on page 24 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

Use of Funds table

The following table summarizes the intended use of ARPA funds to address the 

challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health emergency

declaration.
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 5

a. Public Health (EC 1)

American Samoa’s limited public healthcare system has been a challenge long before 

the threat of COVID-19 pandemic to provide adequate health care services for the 

people of American Samoa. Our reliance on a single medical facility, LBJ Hospital with 

its 124 medical beds and only 10 ICU beds was a significant factor to closing our 

borders since March 2020 as the first line of defense as the COVID-19 spread across 

the globe. Our limited services and capacity to handle an outbreak with our current 

public healthcare services capabilities. Utilizing the ARPA funds to strengthen our 

capacity to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and future healthcare emergencies is 

the top priority for the use of ARPA funds

Improving medical services to the outer islands and outer villages is critical part of our 

plans to strengthen our response capabilities should COVID-19 reach our shores. The 

improvements in our community health centers planned will allow the outer islands and 

villagers better access to healthcare services and better prepare the territory to address 

issues should the COVID-19 arrive on our shores.

Lastly, a tragic consequence of our border closure saw a significant increase in teen and 

young adult suicides during 2020. The rise in criminal cases involving illegal 

methamphetamines and other illegal drugs during the border closure highlighted a 

desperate need to address this growing problem in American Samoa. Improving our 

mental health services in American Samoa is an important component in the overall 

health and wellness of the territory and is sorely lacking presently.

b. Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2)

All economic activity in American Samoa begins at the only commercial port and only 

Airport to serve international flights. American Samoa receives 100% of its medical 

supplies and medicines, food items, general merchandise, building supplies, equipment 

and mail through these ports. Disruptions in clearing fishing vessels or cargo ships cost 

businesses money every minute they are delayed. Many of these cargo vessels carrying 

perishable goods have been on the water for two weeks and goods have been on the 

vessel for three weeks before they arrive in the territory. As a result of the public 

health emergency declaration and the protocols imposed to mitigate the possible 

introduction of the COVID-19 virus, our businesses experienced significant delays in 

their shipments. As supply chain issues arose in the United States, they were also felt 

in American Samoa.

Updating, upgrading and/or replacing the current Port facilities will allow commerce to 

continue with minimal interruptions and delays and still be able to adhere to mitigation 

protocols established by the public health emergency declarations. 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 6

c. Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities (EC 3)

American Samoa ARPA Plan is designed to address territory-wide challenges as a result 

of the public health emergency declaration and the mitigation protocols to keep 

American Samoa COVID-19 free. First, American Samoa’s healthcare system is publicly 

funded and operated with one hospital and community centers used by the entire 

population. Private healthcare services are extremely limited in American Samoa so any 

capital investment into improving our public healthcare system benefits the entire 

territory.

Use of ARPA funds for non-profit organizations, home loan program and small business 

loans will provide various communities within the Territory an opportunity to seek relief 

and utilize the ARPA funds to address their difficulties as a result of the public health 

emergency declaration.

d. Premium Pay (EC 4)

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan has not nor does it currently intend to 

expend any SLFRF funds in this category.

e. Water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure (EC 5)

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan includes SLFRF funds for water distribution 

infrastructure projects to improve and reduce water loss due to aging pipe system. 

SLFRF funds will also be used to improve upload and download speed across the 

territory to include the Manu’a islands and Aunu’u and the outer villages. Having 

adequate connectivity and bandwidth is critical to allowing our children to continue their 

education during a pandemic shutdown and allow for commerce and needed 

government services to operate.

f. Revenue Replacement EC 6)

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan has not nor does it intend to expend any 

SLFRF funds in this category.
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 7

Promoting equitable outcomes 

In this section, describe efforts to date and intended outcomes to promote equity. Each 

annual report to follow must provide an update, using qualitative and quantitative data, 

on how the recipients’ approach achieved or promoted equitable outcomes or 

progressed against equity goals during the performance period.

Describe efforts to promote equitable outcomes, including how programs were designed 

with equity in mind. Include how your jurisdiction will consider and measure equity at 

the various stages of the program, including: 

a. Goals: Are there particular historically underserved, marginalized, or adversely 

affected groups that you intend to serve?

b. Awareness: How equal and practical is the ability for residents or businesses 

to become aware of the services funded by the SLFRF?

c. Access and Distribution: Are there differences in levels of access to benefits 

and services across groups? Are there administrative requirements that result 

in disparities in ability to complete applications or meet eligibility criteria?

d. Outcomes: Are intended outcomes focused on closing gaps, reaching universal 

levels of service, or disaggregating progress by race, ethnicity, and other 

equity dimensions where relevant for the policy objective?

Treasury $622,446,242

ARP State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Counties $10,783,915

ARP State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Non-Entitlement Units of Local Government $5,071,819

ARP State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds – Territories $479,135,254

ARP Coronavirus Capital Project Fund (CCPF) $14,285,714

Coronavirus Relief Fund - U.S. Territory Or Possession $35,173,620

Emergency Rental Assistance Program $9,682,886

Emergency Rental Assistance Program 2 $8,346,647

Homeowner Assistance Fund $3,732,211

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2021 $56,234,176
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 8

Describe how your jurisdiction’s planned or current use of funds prioritizes economic 

and racial equity as a goal, names specific targets intended to produce meaningful 

equity results at scale, and articulates the strategies to achieve those targets. 

Explain how your jurisdiction’s overall equity strategy translates into the specific 

services or programs offered by your jurisdiction in the following Expenditure 

Categories: 

a. Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2): assistance to households, small 

businesses, and non-profits to address impacts of the pandemic, which have 

been most severe among low-income populations. This includes assistance 

with food, housing, and other needs; employment programs for people with 

barriers to employment who faced negative economic impacts from the 

pandemic (such as residents of low-income neighborhoods, minorities, 

disconnected youth, the unemployed, formerly incarcerated people, veterans,

and people with disabilities); and other strategies that provide disadvantaged 

groups with access to education, jobs, and opportunity.

b. Services to Disproportionately Impacted Communities (EC 3): services to 

address health disparities and the social determinants of health, build 

stronger neighborhoods and communities (e.g., affordable housing), address 

educational disparities (e.g., evidence-based tutoring, community schools, 

and academic, social-emotional, and mental health supports for high poverty 

schools), and promote healthy childhood environments (e.g., home visiting, 

child care).

Describe your jurisdiction’s efforts to date and intended outcomes to promote equity 

using qualitative and quantitative data on how the jurisdiction’s approach achieved 

or promoted equitable outcomes or progressed against equity goals. Describe any 

constraints or challenges that impacted project success in terms of increasing 

equity. 

Describe the geographic and demographic distribution of funding, including whether 

it is targeted toward traditionally marginalized communities.

See Section C(3) on pages 24 and 25 of the Reporting Guidance for additional 

information.

Community Engagement 

Describe how your jurisdiction’s planned or current use of funds incorporates written, 

oral, and other forms of input that capture diverse feedback from constituents, 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 9

community-based organizations, and the communities themselves. Where relevant, this 

description must include how funds will build the capacity of community organizations 

to serve people with significant barriers to services, including people of color, people 

with low incomes, limited English proficiency populations, and other traditionally 

underserved groups. 

See Section C(4) on page 25 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

The American Samoa ARP Oversight Office has been tasked with the public outreach to 

gather feedback on the American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan’s identified priorities and 

category allocation. 

Guidance from Territorial Leaders emphasized exploring projects and programs that 

addressed the challenges facing the territory as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and 

the public health emergency declaration. To seek projects that allow this once in 

century funding to meet our present needs and prepares American Samoa for the next 

pandemic. Incorporating feedback from a wide range of territorial stakeholders was 

key in developing the American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan.

The initial general public feedback began before the creation of the AS ARPA Oversight 

Office. As information became available, input was collected through individual 

interactions with members in the business community and private sector. There was 

also direct correspondence between the Executive and Legislative leaders regarding 

critical needs within the community and the possibility of ARPA funds as the funding 

source. 

The administration created the American Samoa ARPA Oversight Office to administer 

the ARPA/SLFRF funds and to ensure compliance with all statutory and administrative 

requirements including public outreach and reporting. 

Briefings are scheduled with the House of Representatives and Senate to present the 

initial American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan for their input and feedback.

There have been numerous interactions with members of the business community and 

private sector seeking to understand how the SLFRF funds could be used to address 

eligible projects facing the business community. This includes presentations to the 

American Samoa Chamber of Commerce to gather their input and insight. The AS ARPA 

Oversight Office has also hosted ARPA/SLFRF informational sessions for the general 

public to comment and provide feedback.

An ARPA Oversight Office web page was created to post relevant information on 

ARPA/SLFRF funds on the American Samoa Government Website.

The American Samoa Government has a unique organizational government structure 

that includes traditional and cultural leaders, which provides a unique perspective on 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 10

village life. The Office of Samoan Affairs headed by the Secretary of Samoan Affairs 

and its District Governors leadership structure allows for information dissemination in a 

culturally unique way. 

The ARPA Oversight Office has conducted individual meetings with semi-autonomous 

Authorities of government which includes our utilities for their valuable input.

The ARPA Oversight Office has connected with numerous non-profit and nongovernmental organizations regarding the potential uses of the ARPA/SLFRF funds. 

Together, a wide cross-section of the population and key stakeholders have been 

involved in the creation of the American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan. Based off this 

collection of feedback, priorities and recommendations, the American Samoa ARPA 

Recovery Plan was created to meet the immediate needs of the territory as a result of 

the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health emergency declaration. 

The American Samoa ARPA Recovery Plan includes allocation of funding to meet the 

diverse needs of all the residents of American Samoa. Capital investment into a new 

medical facility on the main island of Tutuila that serves 90%+ of the local population 

will dramatically improve access to healthcare and the quality of treatment available in 

the territory. Too often, families must endure loved ones leaving the territory to seek 

medical treatment unavailable in the territory creating financial and emotional harm for 

the patient and families. American Samoa depends on its single acute medical hospital, 

improving these services are of critical importance. 

Labor Practices 

Describe workforce practices on any infrastructure projects being pursued (EC 5). How 

are projects using strong labor standards to promote effective and efficient delivery of 

high-quality infrastructure projects while also supporting the economic recovery through 

strong employment opportunities for workers? For example, report whether any of the 

following practices are being utilized: project labor agreements, community benefits 

agreements, prevailing wage requirements, and local hiring.

See Section C(5) on page 25 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

Labor Practices

Describe workforce practices on any infrastructure projects being pursued (EC 5). How 

are projects using strong labor standards to promote effective and efficient delivery of 

high-quality infrastructure projects while also supporting the economic recovery through 

strong employment opportunities for workers? For example, report whether any of the 

following practices are being utilized: project labor agreements, community benefits 

agreements, prevailing wage requirements, and local hiring.

See Section C(5) on page 25 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 11

American Samoa has required clauses in procurement contracts that address 

implementing strong labor standards as well as supporting economic recovery. These 

are well-established and will be included in all contracts for infrastructure projects using 

ARPA funds. The American Samoa Government, American Samoa Power Authority, and 

American Samoa Telecommunications Authority will be required to include these 

provisions, which ensures that no matter which agency is leading the project, the 

requirements will be consistent.

Below are the required contract provisions:

CLAUSE REQUIRED BY

AMERICAN SAMOA 

ADMINISTRATIVE 

CODE

APPLIES TO

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY 10.0250(d)(3), 10.0260(c) All Contracts in excess of 

$10,000

DAVIS BACON ACT 10.0250(d)(5) Construction contracts that 

exceed $2,000 and when 

required by federal grant 

program legislation

CONTRACT WORK HOURS 

AND SAFETY STANDARDS 

ACT

10.0250(D)(6); 10.0260(D) Construction contracts in 

excess of $2,000 or 

contracts in excess of 

$2,500 which involve 

employment of mechanics 

or laborers

CLEAN AIR AND WATER 10.0250(d)(7); 10.0260(f) All contracts over 

$100,000 (unless 

requirement has been 

waived by EPA)

In addition to the above required clauses, ASG Procurement Rules give preference to 

local bidders in construction projects. For contracts valued at $50,000 or less, only 

local bidders are allowed to participate. For those greater than $50,000, local bidders 

are given specified add-on percentages. This local preference leads to a greater 

number of local employees and overall income that is much needed in the Territory. 

This policy has a direct effect on local stimulation of the economy.
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 12

Use of Evidence 

Identify whether SLFRF funds are being used for evidence-based interventions and/or if 

projects are being evaluated through rigorous program evaluations that are designed to 

build evidence. Specifically, in this section, recipients should describe their overall 

approach for using evidence and evaluation, including how a Learning Agenda (either 

narrowly focused on SLFRF or broadly focused on the recipient’s broader policy agenda) 

could support their overarching evaluation efforts in order to create an evidencebuilding strategy for their jurisdiction. However, detailed evidence information for each 

project should be included in the Project Inventory (see details in the Project Inventory 

section below). 

See Section C(6) on page 26 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

Use of Evidence

Identify whether SLFRF funds are being used for evidence-based interventions and/or if 

projects are being evaluated through rigorous program evaluations that are designed to 

build evidence. Specifically, in this section, recipients should describe their overall 

approach for using evidence and evaluation, including how a Learning Agenda (either 

narrowly focused on SLFRF or broadly focused on the recipient’s broader policy agenda) 

could support their overarching evaluation efforts in order to create an evidencebuilding strategy for their jurisdiction. However, detailed evidence information for each 

project should be included in the Project Inventory (see details in the Project Inventory 

section below).

See Section C(6) on page 26 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

The American Samoa Government has established an Oversight Office responsible for 

administering and managing the ARPA funds as well as vetting the eligible projects. 

Part of the responsibilities of the Office is to evaluate the eligibility and need for each 

project. 

The process for evaluation/vetting begins with the lead government agency or 

organization submitting a project proposal that must include specific information about 

the necessity of the project. The Oversight Office staff is then responsible for reviewing 

the proposal and obtaining more information from both the lead department as well as 

other agencies to get a complete picture of how the project qualifies and fills a required 

need. For programs like behavioral health and other public health outreach endeavors, 

data showing current resources, identified targeted groups, and other information 

showing the need created/exacerbated by the pandemic are required to evaluate the 

projects.
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 13

A Learning Agenda would be helpful in focusing attention on areas of need so that the 

funds are most effectively used. Currently, ASG has not been using a Learning Agenda. 

The development of one would help keep the attention on the areas of most need and 

assist in formulating the programs accordingly. However, unlike many other 

jurisdictions, American Samoa’s needs can be extremely fundamental. For example, 

after decades of limited resources, the only hospital serving 52,000 residents will need 

to expand to sufficiently address factors that make the population more susceptible to 

poor outcomes with regard to COVID-19. In short, the only way to address this is to 

expand healthcare capacity by investing in new facilities that will increase the capacity 

from 124 beds to a number far greater. The knowledge of this necessity has long been 

apparent and captured in data over the years, so the necessity of a tool like a Learning 

Agenda for a project like this is far less significant.

American Samoa does seek out the most information and data it can find to support its 

evaluation efforts. Obtaining this data is critical to the mission of the Oversight Office, 

which is ensuring that funds are used in accordance with the Act and fill the needs 

made worse by the pandemic.

Table of Expenses by Expenditure Category

In this section, list the amount of funds used in each Expenditure Category. The table 

should include cumulative expenses to date within each category, and the additional 

amount spent within each category since the last annual Recovery Plan.

Jurisdictions may modify the table as needed by deleting unused rows where they have 

not expended any funds or by adding columns to more clearly characterize their 

program expenditures over time.

For the initial Recovery Plan, the amounts listed for “Cumulative expenditures to date”

and “Amount spent since last Recovery Plan” will be equal.

Category Proposed 

Allocation to 

date ($)

Amount spent 

since last 

Recovery Plan

1 Expenditure Category: Public Health

1.1 COVID-19 Vaccination $5,000,000.00 $0

1.2 COVID-19 Testing

1.3 COVID-19 Contact Tracing

1.4 Prevention in Congregate Settings (Nursing 

Homes, Prisons/Jails, Dense Work Sites, 

Schools, etc.)

$5,000,000.00 $0

1.5 Personal Protective Equipment
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 14

Category Proposed 

Allocation to 

date ($)

Amount spent 

since last 

Recovery Plan

1.6 Medical Expenses (including Alternative 

Care Facilities)

1.7 Capital Investments or Physical Plant 

Changes to Public Facilities that respond to 

the COVID-19 public health emergency

$300,000,000.00 $0

1.8 Other COVID-19 Public Health Expenses 

(including Communications, Enforcement, 

Isolation/Quarantine)

$10,000,000.00 $0

1.9 Payroll Costs for Public Health, Safety, and 

Other Public Sector Staff Responding to 

COVID-19

1.10 Mental Health Services $24,000,000.00 $0

1.11 Substance Use Services

1.12 Other Public Health Services $20,000,000.00 $0

2 Expenditure Category: Negative Economic 

Impacts

2.1 Household Assistance: Food Programs 

2.2 Household Assistance: Rent, Mortgage, and 

Utility Aid 

$18,029,533.00 $0

2.3 Household Assistance: Cash Transfers 

2.4 Household Assistance: Internet Access 

Programs

2.5 Household Assistance: Eviction Prevention

2.6 Unemployment Benefits or Cash Assistance 

to Unemployed Workers

2.7 Job Training Assistance (e.g., Sectoral jobtraining, Subsidized Employment, 

Employment Supports or Incentives)

2.8 Contributions to UI Trust Funds*

2.9 Small Business Economic Assistance 

(General)

$56,234,176.00 $0

2.10 Aid to nonprofit organizations

2.11 Aid to Tourism, Travel, or Hospitality $10,000,000.00 $0

2.12 Aid to Other Impacted Industries

2.13 Other Economic Support $35,000,000.00 $0

2.14 Rehiring Public Sector Staff

3 Expenditure Category: Services to 

Disproportionately Impacted Communities

3.1 Education Assistance: Early Learning 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 15

Category Proposed 

Allocation to 

date ($)

Amount spent 

since last 

Recovery Plan

3.2 Education Assistance: Aid to High-Poverty 

Districts

3.3 Education Assistance: Academic Services 

3.4 Education Assistance: Social, Emotional, 

and Mental Health Services 

3.5 Education Assistance: Other 

3.6 Healthy Childhood Environments: Child 

Care 

3.7 Healthy Childhood Environments: Home 

Visiting 

3.8 Healthy Childhood Environments: Services 

to Foster Youth or Families Involved in 

Child Welfare System 

3.9. Healthy Childhood Environments: Other 

3.10 Housing Support: Affordable Housing $10,000,000.00 $0

3.11 Housing Support: Services for Unhoused 

persons 

3.12 Housing Support: Other Housing Assistance $3,732,211.00 $0

3.13 Social Determinants of Health: Other 

3.14 Social Determinants of Health: Community 

Health Workers or Benefits Navigators 

3.15 Social Determinants of Health: Lead 

Remediation

3.16 Social Determinants of Health: Community 

Violence Interventions 

4 Expenditure Category: Premium Pay

4.1 Public Sector Employees

4.2 Private Sector: Grants to other employers 

5 Expenditure Category: Infrastructure

5.1 Clean Water: Centralized wastewater 

treatment

5.2 Clean Water: Centralized wastewater 

collection and conveyance

5.3 Clean Water: Decentralized wastewater

5.4 Clean Water: Combined sewer overflows

5.5 Clean Water: Other sewer infrastructure

5.6 Clean Water: Stormwater

5.7 Clean Water: Energy conservation

5.8 Clean Water: Water conservation

5.9 Clean Water: Nonpoint source 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 16

Category Proposed 

Allocation to 

date ($)

Amount spent 

since last 

Recovery Plan

5.10 Drinking water: Treatment

5.11 Drinking water: Transmission & distribution $20,000,000.00 $0

5.12 Drinking water: Transmission & 

distribution: lead remediation

5.13 Drinking water: Source

5.14 Drinking water: Storage 

5.15 Drinking water: Other water infrastructure

5.16 Broadband: “Last Mile” projects

5.17 Broadband: Other projects $10,000,000.00 $0

6 Expenditure Category: Revenue 

Replacement

6.1 Provision of Government Services

7 Administrative and Other $3,754,000.00 $0

7.1 Administrative Expenses 

7.2 Evaluation and data analysis 

7.3 Transfers to Other Units of Government

7.4 Transfers to Nonentitlement Units 

(States and Territories only)

See Section C(7) on page 27 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

Project Inventory 

In this section, jurisdictions should provide a description of each project undertaken. 

See Section C(8) on page 27 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information. 

Below is an example of how to present the information noted in the Reporting 

Guidance, which incorporates project details as well as evidence and performance 

measure information outlined in the relevant sections above. This information should 

be replicated for all of the jurisdiction’s projects.

Example Project 

Project [Identification Number]: [Project Name]

Funding amount: [Funding amount]

Project Expenditure Category: [Category number, Category Name]

Project overview
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 17

• A description of the project that includes an overview of the main activities of the 

project, the approximate timeline, primary delivery mechanisms and partners, if 

applicable, and intended outcomes. 

• Link to the website of the project if available 

• How project contributes to addressing climate change (for infrastructure projects 

under EC 5)

Use of Evidence

• Briefly describe the goals of the project, and whether SLFRF funds are being 

used for evidence-based interventions, the evidence base for the interventions,

and/or if projects are being evaluated through rigorous program evaluations that 

are designed to build evidence. If a recipient is conducting a program evaluation 

in lieu of reporting the amount of spending on evidence-based interventions, 

they must describe the evaluation design (see Reporting Guidance for additional 

details that should be included). 

• Identify the dollar amount of the total project spending that is allocated towards 

evidence-based interventions for each project in the Public Health (EC 1), 

Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2), and Services to Disproportionately Impacted 

Communities (EC 3) Expenditure Categories.

ARPA Project Name: American Samoa Vaccination Program (ASVP)

ARPA FUND AMOUNT:$5,000,000.00

1.1 COVID-19 Vaccination

Department of Health, Office of Samoan Affairs, Department of Treasury & 

Office of the Governor

Timeline for implementation: 0-6 months

Overview

American Samoa is approaching phase two of its plans to reopen our borders. Our 

health experts and medical professionals agree that protection for our most vulnerable 

population and the general welfare of all residents is best achieved by reaching 80% 

vaccination for the territory’s total population.

The ASVP will include funding the $100 per dose vaccination incentive plan will help 

American Samoa reach its targeted goal of 80% vaccination territory-wide. It is 

estimated that American Samoa is 20,000 shots from achieving 100% vaccination of the 

eligible population.

The Vaccination campaign will utilize the village leadership under the Secretary of 

Samoan Affairs and the Office of Samoan Affairs to deliver important COVID-19 facts 

and benefits of vaccinations by going door to door to reach villagers and their families. 

This will be critical in achieving our territorial vaccination goal. Village Pulenu’u’s 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 18

(village mayors) will collect data on the number of houses and villagers visited to track 

effectiveness of the covid information campaign.

ARPA Project Name: American Samoa Repatriation Program (ASRP)

ARPA FUND AMOUNT:$10,000,000.00

1.8 Other COVID-19 Public Health Expenses (including Communications, 

Enforcement, Isolation/Quarantine)

Department of Health, Department of Homeland Security, Medicaid Office & 

Office of the Governor

Timeline for implementation: 0-1 year

Overview

American Samoa closed its borders as its first line of defense against the spread of the 

COVID-19 pandemic. Since February 2021 the American Samoa Government began its 

repatriation program to safely bring home stranded residents and permit much needed 

business, medical and military personnel to travel to the territory. 

The SLFRF funds will be utilized to continue this program effective after March 3, 2021. 

The repatriation program will support our efforts to continue the last phase of the plan 

and to make preparations to prepare American Samoa to reopen its borders. The 

repatriation program will fund quarantine, enforcement, medical, transportation, testing 

and monitoring and other related expenses to adhere to our established mitigation and 

prevention protocols to keep COVID-19 virus outside of the territory.

ARPA Project Name: American Samoa Safe Travels Website Design, 

Development and Deployment 

ARPA FUND AMOUNT:$8,100,000.00

1.2 COVID-19 Testing

1.3 COVID-19 Contact Tracing

Department of Health, Medicaid Office, Department of Legal Affairs & Office of 

the Governor

Timeline for implementation: 0-3 months (3-year active contract) 

Overview

The Safe Travels website project is a critical component of the American Samoa 

Governments (ASG) plans to safely reopen its borders. The Safe Travels website will 

provide a single solution for the multiple ASG Departments tasked to safeguard the 

territory during the next phase of reopening its borders to collect and track travelers’ 

pertinent information regarding vaccinations and COVID-19 test results. The Safe 

Travels website will be a multi-year contract to ensure American Samoa maintains the 

ability to track travelers into the territory. The Safe Travels program will allow for 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 19

vaccination data collection, contact tracing and single site for ease of use by travelers 

and government administration and oversight to ensure all safety protocols are 

followed.

ARPA Project Name: American Samoa Capital improvement for new medical

facility and quarantine facility

ARPA FUND AMOUNT:$300,000,000.00

1.7 Capital Investments or Physical Plant Changes to Public Facilities that respond to 

the COVID-19 public health emergency

Departments: LBJ Hospital Authority, Department of Health, Medicaid Office & 

Office of the Governor

Timeline for implementation: 2-3 years

Overview

The Border closure since the first Public Health Emergency Declaration in March 2020 

has highlighted the deficiencies and lacking medical services available for the residents 

of American Samoa. Our limited capacity to adequately manage an outbreak of the 

COVID-19 virus would overwhelm our healthcare system exacerbating the existing 

limited services and treatment.

Our single acute medical facility with only 124 medical beds and 10 ICU beds is 

dangerously insufficient to address the medical needs of the territory should the COVID19 virus pandemic reach our shores. Keeping our borders closed indefinitely is not the 

long-term solution and has created significant hardship for the local residents as many 

have been unable to meet their medical needs in the territory. Investing into a new 

medical facility and increasing our basic response capacity will provide American Samoa 

adequate response capabilities. Developing adequate quarantine facilities will allow 

American Samoa to reopen with the knowledge that the needed facilities to respond to 

the COVID-19 pandemic and the public health emergency declaration protocols. 

ARPA Project Name: Mental Health service and facilities

ARPA Funds: $24,000,000.00

1.10 Mental Health Services $24,000,000.00

Department of Health, LBJ Hospital, Department of Human & Social Services, 

Medicaid Office

Timeline for implementation: 1-2 years

Overview

Addressing the increased need for mental health services and treatment has been 

exacerbated during the public health emergency and border closure. To meet the 

needs for behavioral Health Care services and treatment exacerbated by the pandemic 

and respond to other public health impacts. These services include mental health 

treatment, substance misuse treatment, other behavioral health services, hotlines or 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 20

warmlines, crisis intervention, overdose prevention, infectious disease prevention, and 

services or outreach to promote access to physical or behavioral health primary care 

and preventative medicine.

ARPA Project Name: Village Community Health Centers

ARPA Funds: $20,000,000.00

1.12 Other Public Health Services $20,000,000.00

Department of Health, LBJ Hospital, Department of Human & Social Services, 

Medicaid Office

Timeline to implementation: 1-2 years

Overview,

To improve access to basic healthcare services in the outer islands and outer villages. 

The investment in to the Department of Health Community Centers will allow for 

improved healthcare services in the Manu’a islands, Aunu’u island and the outer 

villages. Expanding these community centers services strengthens American Samoa’s 

overall healthcare system. Improving health community centers to facilitate mitigation 

and prevention efforts for COVID–19 vaccination programs; medical care; testing; 

contact tracing; support for isolation or quarantine and supports vulnerable populations 

to access medical or public health services. 

ARPA Project Name: Rental assistance and Homeowner assistance program

ARPA Funds: combined $18,029,533.00

2.2 Household Assistance: Rent, Mortgage, and Utility Aid $18,029,533.00

Department of Commerce

Overview
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 21

ARPA Project Name: Non-profit & Adult care facilities program

ARPA Funds: $5,000,000.00

1.4 Prevention in Congregate Settings (Nursing Homes, 

Prisons/Jails, Dense Work Sites, Schools, etc.)

$5,000,000.00

2.10 Aid to nonprofit organizations

AS ARPA Oversight Office

Timeline to implementation: 3 months to 18 months

Overview

Providing SLFRF funding for non-profit organizations that have seen a significant drop in 

donations and contributions to fund their humanitarian work. To provide enhancement 

to the only long-term adult health care facility in the territory. These capital 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 22

improvements including home repairs, weatherization, or other needs for the lone 

alternate health care facility will allow for improved care and preparedness to respond 

the COVID-19 pandemic.

ARPA Project Name: Homeowner assistance program

ARPA Funds: combined $3,732,211.00

3.12 Housing Support: Other Housing Assistance $3,732,211.00

Department of Commerce

Timeline to implementation: 3 months to 1 year

Overview

To provide relief and assistance for Homeowners who have experienced hardship and 

loss of income as tenants experienced loss of income and wages. 

ARPA Project Name: Aid to small businesses

ARPA Funds: combined $10,000,000.00

2.11 Aid to Tourism, Travel, or Hospitality $10,000,000.00

2.12 Aid to Other Impacted Industries

Department of Commerce

Timeline to implementation: 3 months to 1 year

Overview

To provide assistance for Small Businesses. Provide loans or grants for covering 

payroll, mortgages or rent, and other operating costs as a result of the public health 

emergency and measures taken to contain the spread of the virus. 

To provide assistance to small businesses to adopt safer operating procedures, weather 

periods of closure, or mitigate financial hardship resulting from the COVID–19 public 

health emergency, including: Æ Loans or grants to mitigate financial hardship such as 

declines in revenues or impacts of periods of business closure, for example by 

supporting payroll and benefits costs, costs to retain employees, mortgage, rent, or 

utilities costs, and other operating costs. 

Prioritizing tourism, travel & hospitality sectors and other impacted industries.

 

ARPA Project Name: Seaport and Airport economic program

ARPA Funds: combined $35,000,000.00

2.13 Other Economic Support $35,000,000.00

Port Authority

Timeline to implementation: 6 months to 18 months

Overview
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 23

The negative impact of the public health emergency declaration and the mitigation 

protocols was exacerbated on the operation of the lone commercial seaport and airport 

that handles 100% of all cargo and good and passengers into the Territory. The 

mitigation protocols to clear incoming commercial vessels and fishing vessels resulted in 

numerous delays in making basic goods, medicines, building materials and grocery 

items to the residents of American Samoa.

To make enhancements to these facilities will reduce the negative economic impact to 

businesses and promote safe operations for the clearance and inspection of incoming 

goods. 

Improving the airport layout to meet CDC guidelines for social distancing is critical to 

support reopening our borders and operating our only airport to receive commercial 

goods and travelers. 

ARPA Project Name: Affordable housing program

3.10 Housing Support: Affordable Housing $10,000,000.00

Department of Commerce, ARPA Oversight Office, TBAS and DBAS

Timeline to implementation: 3 months to 1 year

Overview

Building Stronger Communities through Investments in Housing and Neighborhoods. 

Providing assistance and access to Affordable housing development to increase supply 

of affordable and high-quality living units. Developing affordable home loan program to 

improve communities will strengthen the community against the harm as a result of the 

COVID-19 pandemic. 

ARPA Project Name: Broadband infrastructure program

ARPA Funds: $10,000,000.00

5.17 Broadband: Other projects $10,000,000.00

Telecommunication Sector

Timeline to implementation: 6 months to 18 months

Overview

Developing and expanding the territory’s bandwidth capacity and connectivity are 

crucial components to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and pour public health 

emergency declaration.

Improving upload and download speed is critical for educational and commercial 

purposes. The outer villages and outer islands are already susceptible to frequent 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 24

connectivity interruptions, improving internet capabilities through the local service 

providers will provide the connectivity foundation needed to effectively respond to the 

mitigation and prevention protocols. 

ARPA Project Name: Clean Water: transmission & Distribution program

ARPA Funds: $20,000,000.00

5.11 Drinking water: Transmission & distribution $20,000,000.00

ASPA

Timeline to implementation: 6 months to 1 year

Overview

To improve a failing water distribution system first commissioned over 50 years ago. It 

is estimated that the current water transmission piping system loses 60% due to leaks, 

deteriorating pipes and breakdown of the distribution system. American Samoa has 

been under a boil water notice for over ten years throughout most of the territory. 

SLFRF funding for this water infrastructure program will assist American Samoa to 

providing clean drink water. 

ARPA Project Name: ARPA Oversight Office Administration program

ARPA Funds: $3,754,000.00

7 Administrative and Other $3,754,000.00

American Samoa ARPA Oversight Office

Timeline to implementation: 0-3 months (duration 4 fiscal years)

Overview

The ARPA Oversight Office administrative program will support the effective and 

transparent use of ARPA funds in American Samoa. Having adequate review and 

oversight for these funds are fundamental to fiscal responsibility and accountability. 

The ARPA Oversight Office administration program will provide the leadership in the 

American Samoa Government guidance and advise as to determining eligibility of 

various programs and projects and to work with key community stakeholders to develop 

a territorial ARPA Recovery Plan that serves all the residents of American Samoa.

The ARPA Oversight Office will also be responsible for all SLFRF compliance and 

reporting requirements.

Performance Report

• For the Project Inventories in Section 8, include key performance indicators for 

your jurisdiction’s major SLFRF funded projects. Report key performance 

indicators for each project, or group projects with substantially similar goals and 

the same outcome measures. Jurisdictions may choose to include some 

indicators for each individual project as well as crosscutting indicators. Include 
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 25

both output and outcome measures. See Section C(9) on page 27 of the 

Reporting Guidance for additional information.

• In addition, you must include the mandatory performance indicators if your 

jurisdiction has projects in the relevant areas (this information may be included 

in each recipient’s Recovery Plan as they determine most appropriate). Provide 

data disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, income, and other relevant 

factors, if possible. Data should be presented in a table and each annual report 

should include updated data for the performance period as well as prior period 

data.

a. Household Assistance (EC 2.2 & 2.5) and Housing Support (EC 3.10-3.12): 

• Number of people or households receiving eviction prevention services 

(including legal representation)

• Number of affordable housing units preserved or developed

b. Negative Economic Impacts (EC 2): 

• Number of workers enrolled in sectoral job training programs

• Number of workers completing sectoral job training programs

• Number of people participating in summer youth employment 

programs

c. Education Assistance (EC 3.1-3.5): 

• Number of students participating in evidence-based tutoring programs

d. Healthy Childhood Environments (EC 3.6-3.9): 

• Number of children served by childcare and early learning (preschool/pre-K/ages 3- 5)

• Number of families served by home visiting

See Section C(10) on page 27 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

OVERVIEW

American Samoa is still in the mobilization phase of ARPA Oversight Office rollout 

plans. Currently, no data to report as required under section 8 for project 

inventories. Future reporting will include required data as outlined in the SLFRF 

Compliance and Reporting Guidelines. American Samoa does expect to see a 

significant positive impact to the total number of jobs created and the overall 

positive economic impact of the ARPA/SLFRF funds will provide for American Samoa 

as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the mitigation protocols under the public 

health emergency declaration.

Ineligible Activities: Tax Offset Provision (States and territories only)
[American Samoa] 2021 Recovery Plan Performance Report 26

For the initial reporting year, States and territories will report the following items related 

to the Tax Offset Provision 31 CFR 35.8. Baseline revenue or revenue-increasing 

covered charges are not required at this time.

Item Amount

a. Revenue-reducing Covered Changes $0

See Section C(11) on page 28 of the Reporting Guidance for additional information.

Additional guidance will be forthcoming for reporting requirements regarding the tax 

offset provision. 

For baseline revenue calculations, American Samoa used its audited financials from FY 

2019. Total local revenues for FY2019 were at $98,690,000. For FY 2021, ASG 

projects collecting $110,000,000 in total tax revenue. Since this figure was above the 

baseline year, ASG will not be using funds for reduction in revenue expenditures.

In keeping with the calculations required by the Interim Final Rule and the Compliance 

and Reporting Guidelines put forth by the US Treasury, American Samoa offers the 

following calculations:

Counterfactual revenue: $98,690,000[(1+.041)^(23/12)] = $106,591,104.46 

For FY2021, ASG collected $110,000,000 in total revenues, as noted above. Since this 

value exceeds the counterfactual revenue calculation, the resulting change is 

considered 0 per the Compliance guidance.

Generally, ASG has not experienced a reduction in the budget due to pandemic related 

reductions in revenue. In early 2021, tax revenues were decreased when the 2% Wage 

Tax was repealed, further reinforcing the decision to not pursue reductions in revenue 

spending to comply with ARPA. 

Since revenues did not decline, American Samoa has no attendant cuts in the budget 

that could be attributed to the pandemic.