RECOVERY PLAN

PERFORMANCE REPORT | 2021

RELEASED AUGUST 31, 2021

EL PASO COUNTY, COLORADO

AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT

RESPONSE . RECOVERY . RESILIENCY
EL PASO COUNTY, COLORADO
CONTENTS

Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................. 04

Uses of Funds........................................................................................................................................... 06

El Paso County Demographic Information ...........................................................................................08

Economic Recovery.................................................................................................................................. 10

Economic Development..............................................................................................................................12

Pikes Peak Workforce Center.....................................................................................................................26

Public Safety ............................................................................................................................................. 28

Office of the El Paso County Sheriff..........................................................................................................30

Pikes Peak Office of Emergency Management......................................................................................32

Office of the El Paso County Coroner......................................................................................................34

Public Health..................................................................................................................................................36

Community Response and Recovery.....................................................................................................38

County Budget Department.......................................................................................................................38

Water, Sewer, and Broadband ............................................................................................................... 40

Department of Public Works......................................................................................................................42

County Administration.................................................................................................................................44

Digital Technology & Strategy ....................................................................................................................46

Other Fund Uses ...................................................................................................................................... 48

Table of Expenses by Expenditure Category........................................................................................50

Revenue Replacement............................................................................................................................. 51

Promoting Equitable Outcomes............................................................................................................. 52
PAGE 04

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Response Recovery Resiliency Plan will make a measurable impact on the lives of our residents, keep 

El Paso County healthy, and grow our economy to make it stronger and more vibrant for years to come.

El Paso County intends to invest the first tranche of funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) in 

the following manner (in Millions):

Economic Recovery................................................................. $20 Million...................29%

Employees, business owners, and consumers all experienced economic pain due to COVID-19 closures and 

capacity restrictions. Funding in this allocation will grant money to businesses that need it most, put people back 

to work through workforce development programs, bring tourists back to the Pikes Peak region, and support local 

chambers of commerce. 

Public Safety ............................................................................ $17 Million...................24%

A recent spike in cases and a new variant serve as a reminder that COVID-19 still presents a danger to residents, 

first responders, and peace officers. Funds will go to the County Departments and Offices with direct COVID 

response expenses. 

Water Infrastructure ................................................................ $8 Million...................11%

Water is Colorado’s most precious resource. The county will partner with area water and sewer districts to identify 

and fund high-impact water infrastructure projects focusing on managing or mitigating pollutants, reducing the 

energy required to treat water, and reusing water where possible.

Public Health ............................................................................. $8 Million...................11%

El Paso County Public Health has been at the forefront of the county’s response, recovery, and resiliency to 

COVID-19. Funds will go to Public Health for the direct response to COVID-19.

Broadband Infrastructure ....................................................... $6 Million.....................9%

The home is no longer just a place to live; it’s the office, the restaurant, the marketplace, and the school. 

The demand for high-speed, reliable internet has never been higher. An estimated 200,000 residents live in 

unincorporated El Paso County, and many of those residents don’t have adequate internet services. By partnering 

with area providers, the county will focus on “middle-mile” projects to help serve the need.

Stormwater Infrastructure............................................ $5 Million...................7%

The Pikes Peak region has long sought to manage better the water produced through storm events. Funding in 

this area will address local stormwater demands, which have been exasperated by changing behavior among area 

residents. 

Unallocated .................................................................. $2.9 Million...................4%

Funds in this reserve will be used to address any newly identified or unanticipated needs.

Individual & Family Assistance...................................... $2 Million...................3%

Area residents need help with things like rent, utilities, and food. El Paso County will partner with local non-profit 

organizations to ensure no person or household is left behind.

Administration ................................................................ $1 Million...................1%

Funds in this allocation will administer, monitor, track, and oversee the plan implementation.

Total ARPA Funds................................................... $69.9 Million..............100%
PAGE 05
PAGE 06

USE OF FUNDS

INITIAL ALLOCATION - TRANCHE 1

El Paso County, Colorado Government—including elected officials and staff alike—are fully 

committed to the response, recovery, and resiliency to the COVID-19 pandemic. That steadfast 

commitment has been in place since El Paso County Public Health started monitoring the disease 

in December 2019. The Board of County Commissioners is proud to use funds available from the 

American Rescue Plan Act (“ARPA”) to combat the coronavirus, keep our citizens safe, and mitigate 

the devastating economic impacts of this global crisis. The Board also understands that the best 

way to allocate these funds is by adhering to all federal requirements, with a strategic focus on 

positively impacting as many residents as possible, and after a fair and collaborative process.

The El Paso County direct allocation of the ARPA includes $139.9 million in recovery assistance 

to be paid in two equal tranches. The first half of the county’s share was received in May of this 

year and totaled $69.9 million. The second installment of the funds will arrive in May of next year 

for the same dollar amount. The county’s Response Recovery Resiliency Plan (“the plan”) fully 

complies with the U.S. Treasury Department’s Interim Final Rule. The Board will obligate all funds 

before December 31, 2024, and will expend all funds by December 31, 2026.

The El Paso County Response Recovery Resiliency Plan will use funds wisely to help those that 

need it most: the businesses and industries impacted by closures and capacity mandates, the 

first responders and public health workers who keep our community safe and invest in the 

infrastructure strained by new demands. The plan will complement the efforts of other local 

governments which have likewise received direct funds under the law in 2021, such as the City 

of Colorado Springs ($76,039,132), the City of Fountain ($7,725,235), the City of Manitou Springs 

($1,354,775), the Town of Monument ($2,035,179), the Town of Palmer Lake ($752,290), the 

Town of Green Mountain Falls ($181,475), the Town of Ramah ($32,675), and the Town of Calhan 

($209,626). Likewise, the plan will also coordinate with private providers of services residents 

need which fall outside of the statutory scope of the county’s authority, such as broadband 

providers and local water districts. This collaboration with other area municipalities is important. 

Of the 730,000 people that live in El Paso County, around 70% live in one of the cities or towns 

which received a direct allocation of ARPA funds. Furthermore, all the county’s Qualified Census 

Tracts (“QCT”) are within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City of Colorado Springs. This means 

another jurisdiction is the only entity that can provide certain services designated as an allowable 

use of funds to residents within a QCT. 

This will also address the reality of unknown future needs. This is especially prudent as the Delta 

Variant reminds policymakers that this disease is far from eradicated. As fiscal conservatives, the 

Board will plan for unforeseen circumstances, cost changes, and new opportunities to positively 

impact the lives of county residents. 
PAGE 07

The Response Recovery Resiliency Plan will make a measurable impact on the lives of our residents, keep 

El Paso County healthy, and grow our economy to make it stronger and more vibrant for years to come.

Additionally, El Paso County follows all federal laws and regulations to ensure full compliance of the same. 

The county, as a recipient and sub-recipient of federal funds, will follow all requirements as set forth in 

42 USC Chapter 21—Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ensure that no one individual or business is excluded or 

denied the benefit of federal assistance or grants. El Paso County’s Title VI Plan shall be followed to ensure 

compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Economic Recovery....................................................................................................$20 Million...........................29%

Funding in this allocation will grant money to businesses that need it most, get workers back to work through workforce 

development programs, get tourists back to the Pikes Peak region, and support local chambers of commerce. 

Public Safety ...............................................................................................................$17 Million...........................24%

Funds will go to the County Departments and Offices with direct COVID response expenses. 

Water Infrastructure ................................................................................................... $8 Million...........................11%

The county will partner with area water and sewer districts to identify and fund high-impact water infrastructure projects with 

a focus on managing or mitigating pollutants, reduce the energy required to treat water, and reuse water where possible.

Public Health ................................................................................................................ $8 Million...........................11%

Funds will go to Public Health for the direct response to COVID-19. 

Broadband Infrastructure .......................................................................................... $6 Million.............................9%

An estimated 200,000 residents live in unincorporated El Paso County, and many of those residents don’t have adequate 

internet services. 

Stormwater Infrastructure......................................................................................... $5 Million.............................7%

Funding in this area will address local stormwater needs exasperated by changing behavior among area residents. 

Unallocated ...............................................................................................................$2.9 Million.............................4%

Funds in this reserve will be used to address any newly identified or unanticipated needs.

Individual & Family Assistance................................................................................... $2 Million.............................3%

El Paso County will partner with local non-profit organizations to ensure no person or household is left behind.

Administration ............................................................................................................. $1 Million.............................1%

Funds in this allocation will to administer, monitor, track, and oversee the plan implementation.

TRANCHE 1 | $69.9 Million
PAGE 08

DEMOGRAPHICS

EL PASO COUNTY, COLORADO

EL PASO COUNTY

Nestled below Pikes Peak, natures crown jewel of the Rocky Mountains, is El Paso County - America’s 

destination. 

El Paso County has a little something for everyone and is home to eight municipalities each contributing to the 

geographic, economic, and social diversity of the community. With mountains to the west, forest to the north, 

and plains to the east, you can hike, bike, kayak, and explore without ever leaving the county. 

With a population of over 730,000, citizens enjoy a thriving downtown, family-friendly suburbs, and vast rural 

expanses. El Paso County has historic charm, world-class restaurants and accommodations, a growing cultural 

scene, and plenty of shopping options.

El Paso County is incredibly important to our nation. The county is home to 5 crucial military installations, from 

the prestigious United States Airforce Academy to Fort Carson. Each base supports a crucial strategic mission 

for our nation’s defense. Over 100,000 active or retired military personnel call El Paso County home.

Within it all is the El Paso County government. Our county government is the gold standard of efficiency, 

transparency, and respect for its citizens. The county is led by various elected officials and senior county 

leadership. Together, they collaborate with regional partners to solve complex problems and protect our most 

vulnerable. 
PAGE 09
PAGE 10

ECONOMIC RECOVERY

DEVELOPMENT & WORKFORCE

EL PASO COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

In El Paso County, Colorado, we take a holistic approach to economic development. Our 

office is uniquely tasked with serving an ever-growing region with ever-changing needs. 

We navigate our dynamic economic landscape with a focused approach, by offering 

diverse incentives for businesses and leveraging federal and state resources for housing 

and community development. Our goal is to assist in creating a robust, diversified, and 

equitable economic ecosystem. To learn more about our work, please view the sections 

below.

PIKES PEAK WORKFORCE CENTER

The Pikes Peak Workforce Center (PPWFC) connects vital businesses with work-ready job 

seekers and employer-driven services. As a regional service provider the PPWFC is agile at 

responding to emerging needs of the diverse and growing workforce, changing the lives of 

job seekers with proven training and employment opportunities. Employer partners know 

and acknowledge the value PPWFC adds to their bottom line. PPWFC is a model for the 

responsible use of federal funds and a leader in workforce development, organizational 

effectiveness, and collaborative partnerships.
PAGE 11

ECONOMIC RECOVERY

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $10,570,442

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

PROJECT ID: ED-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Pre-Award

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Regional Business Relief Fund

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Colorado Enterprise Fund (“CEF”)

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

El Paso County administered a highly successful Business Relief 

Fund with CARES Act dollars in 2020. 

The ARPA funds allowed the county to fund the program again in 

2021. The program’s objective is to retain and bolster local small 

businesses that were negatively affected by COVID-19. Many small 

businesses and non-profits in El Paso County have continued to 

experience a decline in business activity and revenue. Without 

access to financial resources, many locally owned businesses 

may permanently close their doors. The El Paso County Regional 

Business Relief Fund provided up to $20,000 of grant funding 

assistance to adversely affected businesses in the region. 

The county opened a competitive grant application process for 

small businesses and non-profits to assist with business-related 

costs incurred due to the COVID-19 economic disruption such 

as rent/mortgage/utility payments, employee payroll, accounts 

payable and other fixed debt costs, personal protection equipment, 

and marketing costs associated with economic recovery. 

The Board of County Commissioners approved outlined project 

guidelines and measurements, and the application process 

launched on June 28, 2021. Following the application process, 

awards were announced in August with the financial awards being 

distributed immediately after.
PAGE 12

The eligibility requirements were as follows:

1. Small businesses structured as partnership, corporation, limited partnership, limited liability 

entity, sole proprietors, or independent contractors 

2. Non-profits registered under United States Tax Code § 501(c)(3) 

3. Less than 500 employees, including part-time workers (excluding 1099 contracted workers) 

4. Located in El Paso County, Colorado 

5. Business activities are legal under both The Federal Code and Colorado Revised Statutes 

6. Applicant business is currently operating 

7. The business was negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic 

8. Applicant business and business owner do not have any outstanding judgments, tax liens, or 

pending lawsuits against them 

9. Possess all applicable licenses and registrations

10. Applicant business or non-profit organization has hiring practices that are free from 

discrimination and hiring practices do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for 

employment because of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, disability or 

other handicaps, age, marital status, or status concerning public assistance 

The county structured the application to include sections depicting an introduction, business 

information, COVID-19 impact on business, grant assistance request, financial documentation, and 

signature. In addition, the county outsourced the evaluation process to the Colorado Enterprise Fund 

with oversight from the Economic Development Oversight Committee. 

Evaluation of awardees consisted of the following characteristics: 

• Business Size (Current number of employees, part-time included) 

• Years of operation 

• Annual gross revenues 

• Financial condition: loss of revenue due to COVID-19 

• Industry 

• Unique aspects to consider include community impact, adaptability and resiliency, 

sustainability, targeted ownership. 

In conjunction with the Colorado Enterprise Fund, El Paso County will conduct pulse check surveys with 

awardees every 90 days and will report on the findings. 

Additionally, the El Paso County Economic Development Department is partnering with the Pikes 

Peak Small Business Development Center (“SBDC”) and the Pikes Peak Workforce Center (“PPWFC”) to 

ensure that all grantees receive access to free long-term business and workforce development support 

services.

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

Ensuring that all eligible businesses had access to this recovery funding was of crucial importance. 

Through community partnerships and grassroots efforts, this program had extensive community 

outreach. Outreach included website and news releases, radio (English and Spanish), coordinating with 

minority and women targeted chambers of commerce, and diverse business leaders and advocates. 

This robust and holistic outreach resulted in 65% of the grantees identifying themselves as women, 

minority, or veteran-owned businesses. 
PAGE 13

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• 627 local small businesses and non-profits received a grant award 

• The average grant amount was $16,557 

• 65% of the awardees self-identified as women, minority, or veteran-owned businesses

Outcome Measures:

• Provide financial and business support services to aid in the long-term recovery of local small 

businesses and non-profits in our region 

• Retain and bolster small businesses in El Paso County that have been negatively affected by the 

COVID-19 pandemic 

• Increase number of businesses and non-profits accessing business support services through the 

Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center (“PPSBDC”) and the Pikes Peak Workforce Center 

(“PPWFC”) 


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PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $3,050,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

PROJECT ID: ED-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Other Economic Development Support

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

Economic Development plans to 

have available funding that will be 

used for small business development 

staffing and other business support 

as they are identified. Money can also 

be used in this portion to support 

minority chambers of commerce, 

assistance for the tourism industry, or 

other economic sectors whose need 

for assistance is yet unidentified.

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

El Paso County is welcome to all. As 

with other funds already allocated 

through economic development, 

funding decisions will reflect the 

community’s diverse needs. Diversity 

is a strength of our region.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Will be determined as future 

funding needs are identified

Outcome Measures:

• Will be determined as future 

funding needs are identified
PAGE 23

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $2,500,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

PROJECT ID: ED-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Tourism Support

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

In every sense of the word, El Paso County is America’s destination. The area has a mix of both 

natural beauty and man-made attractions. That mix of attractions brings millions of people—and 

billions of dollars—into the county each year. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has dramatically impacted 

the region’s tourism industry. Natural attractions, such as the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, have 

seen record attendance. But lodging occupancy, museums, sporting events, and other tourismrelated businesses struggled during the pandemic. 

The Response Recovery Resiliency plan will support the tourism industry through direct support to 

business league organizations driving tourism back to the region. The county may also offer direct 

support to key tourism, travel, and hospitality-related businesses in a particularly exigent state. 

Organizations will be required to apply for the grants through an application process. The 

applications will be scored and evaluated by a committee that will review the applications and 

application scores to decide which agencies should be awarded the Tourism Support Grants. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

El Paso County is welcome to all. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number of tourism-focused agencies financially assisted

Outcome Measures:

• Support safe reopening of businesses in the tourism, travel, and hospitality industries

• Assist with the long-term financial and economic recovery of our region’s crucial tourism 

ecosystem
PAGE 24

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $250,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

PROJECT ID: ED-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Small Business Development Center (“SBDC”)

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: The Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

The Pikes Peak SBDC and Colorado SBDC Network will help businesses 

affected by the COVID-19 global pandemic. Pikes Peak SBDC 

consultants and partners, including the Small Business Administration 

(“SBA”) and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and 

International Trade (“OEDIT”), provide services to assist with disaster 

loan applications, long term planning, insurance navigation, physical 

and economic loss estimations, business preparedness and more. 

ARPA funding will be used to support the SBDC personnel, marketing 

costs to ensure rural and under-served populations are aware of SBDC 

resources, business support programming for the Regional Business 

Relief Fund grant recipients, and supplies and program costs to 

strengthening rural and diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts for all. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

A portion of the ARPA funding will focus on ensuring under-served 

populations (rural and targeted ownership categories) have increased 

access to programming.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Increased Business Starts

• Increased Jobs Created or Retained

• Increased Sales/Contracts for Businesses

• Increased Consulting/Training for Clients

Outcome Measures:

• Provide assistance to ensure existing and new businesses grow 

and prosper in the Pikes Peak Region

• Increase businesses access to experts ready to help create 

and retain jobs, secure loans, increase sales, win government 

contracts, obtain certificates, and more
PAGE 25

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $200,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Economic Development

PROJECT ID: ED-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Imact

PURPOSE: Regional Chamber Support

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Chambers & Business League Agencies Offering Support to 

Unincorporated El Paso County & Targeted Ownership (women, minority, veteran-owned 

businesses)

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

Economic Development plans to offer regional chamber and business league support grants that 

were impacted by the pandemic. Chambers may use funds to implement COVID-19 mitigation 

and infection prevention measures, including improvements to ventilation, physical barriers 

or partitions, signage, PPE, or consulting with professionals to develop safe reopening plans. 

Additionally, funds may be used for their business operations to further support the business 

community. Eligible costs may include rent/mortgage/utility payments, employee payroll, 

marketing, and outreach. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

This activity is focused on serving the needs of our under-served populations (rural and women, 

minority, and veteran-owned businesses) through their business support leagues and chambers. 

The funding will go exclusively to racial equity and inclusion efforts in the region by serving these 

agencies that serve this targeted population.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number of targeted ownership business league agencies financially assisted

Outcome Measures:

• Support safe reopening of our chambers and business league organizations

• Assist with the long-term economic recovery of our region’s under-served business 

populations
PAGE 26

ECONOMIC RECOVERY

PIKES PEAK WORKFORCE CENTER

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Economic Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $3,500,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Pikes Peak Workforce Center (“PPWFC”)

PROJECT ID: PPWFC-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Employment

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the workforce in ways yet understood. The Pikes Peak 

Workforce Center (“PPWFC”) will be focused on getting people back to work. After a prolonged 

State-mandated lock down, many businesses in the area had to lay off employees as they closed 

their doors and reduced their hours of operations. This result was a large number of citizens 

finding themselves in the ranks of the unemployed. The Pikes Peak Workforce Center plans to 

change this by investing in the workforce by using American Rescue Plan funds for the following 

uses: 

1. Upskilling employees to provide new skills that will help them perform new job functions 

required by their employers

2. Temporary pop-up Pikes Peak Workforce Center site for unemployment support and 

trainings

3. Workforce Development grants to help small businesses attract and hire employees

4. Marketing materials for outreach

5. Training for in-demand industries provided through the Colorado Department of Labor 

and Employment

6. Hiring staff that will work with high school seniors or graduates whose workforce careers 

were negatively impacted by COVID-19

7. Funding of program staff to manage Incumbent Worker Training (“IWT”)

Furthermore, the pop-up PPWFC site is well-situated to serve those in QCTs. Located at Galley Rd. 

and Academy Blvd. in the City of Colorado Springs, the location is within a mile of nine area QCTs. 

The site is also on major area bus routes to help remove the transportation barrier. The PPWFC 

is well equipped to meet all federal reporting requirements. Although the organization is used 

to tracking data based on Lower Living Standard Income Level (“LLSIL”) for most federal grants, 

future reports will include services provided to those living in a QCT.
PAGE 27

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

The PPWFC is one of a few county services the county provides to all residents regardless of 

municipal boundaries. Since the onset of COVID-19, the organization has helped 18,501 non-white 

(self-identified), unemployed workers with unemployment information and documentation, job 

search activities, workshops related to resume writing and interview preparation, job coaching, 

and employment navigation services. The organization will continue its work with all communities 

throughout the ARPA process.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number served

• Number served by zip code

• Number of trainings completed

• Number of employees upskilled by their employer

Outcome Measures:

• Improve employment situations for impacted El Paso County residents

• Improve skills needed for the underemployed or unemployed El Paso County residents

• Increase number of skilled workers in El Paso County
PAGE 28

PUBLIC SAFETY

SHERIFF & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 

& CORONER & PUBLIC HEALTH

The Office of the El Paso County Sheriff (Sheriff’s Office) patrols a landmass roughly the size of 

Rhode Island. If the population of unincorporated El Paso County were to become a city, that city 

would be the fourth largest in the state. Within that diverse geography, the Sheriff’s Office serves 

both urban areas and sparsely populated rural communities. 

After much effort and collaboration, El Paso County and the City of Colorado Springs formed the 

Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management (“PPROEM”) in 2019. The timing proved 

fortuitous for the global COVID-19 pandemic. The PPROEM activated in March, 2020 and has 

supported El Paso County, the City of Colorado Springs, and Public Health since that time. The 

office has coordinated COVID-19 testing, staffing, and housed the Joint Information Center (“]IC”) 

throughout much of the pandemic.

The Office of the El Paso County Corner investigates and certifies sudden, unexpected, and 

violent deaths within the County. The office also provides forensic pathology, toxicology, or 

histology services for 25 Colorado counties whose elected coroners do not possess the technical 

expertise or resources to complete the work themselves. Dr. Leon Kelly also served as the 

elected coroner and as the Public Health deputy medical director for much of 2020, where he 

used his health background to advise local jurisdictions how best to limit the spread of COVID-19.

El Paso County Public Health (“Public Health”) has been at the forefront of the county’s response, 

recovery, and resiliency to COVID-19 since they began monitoring the novel coronavirus in 

December 2019. They have successfully led the sharing of credible information on prevention 

strategies, conducting epidemiological investigations, contact tracing, establishing testing sites, 

and distributing the vaccine. Additionally, Public Health provided expert advice and technical 

assistance to businesses and entities who experienced outbreaks, including quarantine and 

isolation recommendations, case investigation, and cleaning and disinfecting guidance.
PAGE 29

• Largest single jail facility in the state

• Every person arrested in El Paso County 

including local municipalities, is processed 

through the county jail

• Prepare inmates for reintegration into society

and reduce recidivision and jail populations 

through inmate work and substance abuse 

programs that generate economic benefits for 

the community

• Preparation for emergencies considers all 

potential hazards, natural or human-caused

• A central coordination point for all emergency 

support functions, communication, and public 

information in a disaste

• Mitigating the impact of a disaster and 

coordinating efforts to restore the community

• Designated Emergency Response Authority 

(DERA) for unincorporated El Paso County

• Investigate and certify cause and manner for 

sudden, unexpected, or traumatic deaths in El 

Paso County

• Service provided impact criminal 

investigations, insurance payouts, and identify 

public health dangers

• Perform forensic autopsies for 25 other 

counties in Colorado as the only certified 

toxicology lab in the state

• Provide health services to residents in El 

Paso County and local municipalities with no 

additional funding

• Promote public health and environmental 

quality in El Paso County through prevention, 

partnerships, and educations

• Ensure access to preventative services 

immunization nutritional educational and 

counseling to achieve optimal health
PAGE 30

PUBLIC SAFETY

EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Public Safety

FUNDING AMOUNT: $15,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Office of the El Paso County Sheriff

PROJECT ID: SHR-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Ongoing

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 1 - Public Health

PURPOSE: Sheriff’s Office Jail Operations

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

The Office of the El Paso County Sheriff (Sheriff’s Office) patrols a landmass roughly the size of 

Rhode Island. If the population of unincorporated El Paso County was to become a city, that city 

would be the fourth largest in the state. Within that diverse geography, the Sheriff’s Office serves 

both urban areas and sparsely populated rural communities. 

The Sheriff’s Office also operates one of the largest jails in the country. The maximum capacity of 

the jail is around 1,800 people and was often over-capacity before the pandemic. 

Providing a safe environment for deputies and citizens housed in the jail is a paramount goal for 

the Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff’s deputy Jeff Hopkins lost his life after contracting COVID-19 in the line 

of duty early last year. 

The proper jail administration is always crucial for public safety, but operating a jail during a 

global pandemic requires additional policies, procedures, and large expenditures. COVID-19 

related jail spending demands include frequent testing, quarantine needs, and other costs 

associated with adding a person to the jail population whose infection status is unknown. Jail 

deputies are COVID tested at the end of each shift week. The congregate setting of the jail and 

the public nature of their work is a constant source of danger for deputies. Like many other 

jurisdictions, the county jail and Sheriff staff experienced outbreaks within their ranks. COVID-19 

dramatically increased the cost to operate the jail during the pandemic.

This portion of the Response Recovery Resiliency Plan will provide the Sheriff’s Office with the 

resources necessary to operate the jail as safely as possible. 
PAGE 31

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

The Sheriff’s Office regularly engages in positive outreach to area minority communities. However, 

these outreach activities are not funded through the ARPA allocation and will not be discussed in this 

report.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• The number of inmates who test positive for COVID as they enter the jail

• The number of employees who test positive for COVID

• The amount of money spent on PPE

Outcome Measures:

• The number of hospitalizations among the inmate population due to COVID
PAGE 32

PUBLIC SAFETY

PIKES PEAK OFFICE OF

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Public Safety

FUNDING AMOUNT: $1,500,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Pikes Peak Office of Emergency Management

PROJECT ID: OEM-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Ongoing

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 1 - Public Health

PURPOSE: Regional COVID-19 Response

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: N/A

DESCRIPTION:

El Paso County has had its fair share of natural disasters. The region has survived devastating 

wildfires, catastrophic floods, severe snowstorms, and massive hail events. In the past, each area 

agency would respond with its own emergency management apparatus. However, individual 

agency responses lacked the efficiency needed to best serve residents during a crisis. Regional 

leaders recognized that an effective response must move as fluidly between jurisdictional lines 

as the natural disasters themselves. After much effort and collaboration, El Paso County and 

the City of Colorado Springs formed the Pikes Peak Regional Office of Emergency Management 

(“PPROEM”) in 2019. 

The timing proved fortuitous for the global COVID-19 pandemic. The PPROEM activated in March 

2020 and has supported El Paso County, the City of Colorado Springs, and Public Health. In 

addition, the office has coordinated COVID-19 testing, staffing, and housed the Joint Information 

Center (“JIC”) throughout much of the pandemic. 

Funds from this section will cover the costs of vaccination sites, testing sites, and personal 

protective equipment for first responders. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

The Pikes Peak Office of Emergency Management will partner with Public Health to provide 

vaccine services to minority communities wherever possible.
PAGE 33

MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number of vaccines administered

• Number COVID-19 tests administered

Outcome Measures:

• Percentage of population vaccinated

• Percentage of positive tests
PAGE 34

PUBLIC SAFETY

EL PASO COUNTY CORONER

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Public Safety

FUNDING AMOUNT: $500,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Office of the El Paso County Coroner

PROJECT ID: COR-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Ongoing

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 1 - Public Health

PURPOSE: Death Investigations

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: N/A

DESCRIPTION:

The Office of the El Paso County Corner investigates and certifies every sudden, unexpected, 

and violent death within the county. The office also provides forensic pathology, toxicology, or 

histology services for 25 Colorado counties whose elected coroners do not possess the technical 

expertise or resources to complete the work themselves. Dr. Leon Kelly also served as the elected 

coroner and as the Public Health deputy medical director for much of 2020. He used his health 

background to advise local jurisdictions how best to limit the spread of COVID-19. 

The Coroner’s Office has reviewed the Death Certificates on all COVID-19 related deaths in El Paso 

County and completed 51 COVID-19 related autopsies for El Paso and surrounding counties from 

March 2020 through April 29, 2021. The office’s work in this area will continue throughout the 

pandemic. 

Similar to the Sheriff’s Office, staff safety is a paramount concern for the Coroner’s Office. The 

virus can transmit from a deceased person under certain conditions. 

Funding for this area will cover personal protective equipment for staff and pathogen testing 

required to accurately determine whether COVID-19 was the primary cause of death for a person. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

The Office of the Coroner serves as dictated by demands outside of its control. The Office of 

the Coroner engages in community health efforts which have a racial and equity inclusion 

component, such as suicide prevention. However, outreach activities are not funded through the 

ARPA allocation and will not be discussed in this report.
PAGE 35

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Track the number of other coroner’s offices assisted with COVID related work 

• Track the number of people autopsied whose cause of death was primary COVID related 

Outcome Measures:

• The dollar amount spent on COVID related supplies 
PAGE 36

PUBLIC SAFETY

EL PASO COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Public Safety, Health, and COVID Response

FUNDING AMOUNT: $8,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: El Paso County Public Health Department

PROJECT ID: PH-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Ongoing

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 1 - Public Health

PURPOSE: Public Health Support

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: N/A

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: N/A

DESCRIPTION:

El Paso County Public Health (“Public Health”) has been at the forefront of the county’s response, 

recovery, and resiliency to COVID-19 since they began monitoring the novel coronavirus in 

December 2019. They have successfully led the sharing of credible information on prevention 

strategies, conducting epidemiological investigations, contact tracing, establishing testing sites, 

and distributing the vaccine. Additionally, Public Health provided expert advice and technical 

assistance to businesses and entities which experienced outbreaks, including quarantine and 

isolation recommendations, case investigation, and cleaning and disinfecting guidance. Public 

Health staff helped businesses deploy PPE, cleaning agents, and best practices to implement 

social distancing. Public Health also opened a satellite office in Fountain, Colorado, which serves 

hard-to-reach populations. 

And, as another agency that serves all 730,000 county residents without support from any local 

municipality, Public Health simultaneously completed much of their non-pandemic related 

mission of Women, Infants, and Children (“WIC”), immunizations, restaurant inspections, and 

containing other diseases. 

Public Health did all of this while remaining committed to its core values of collaboration and 

community partnerships. 

Funding allocated towards Public Health will go to the continued direct response to an everevolving and persistent disease. Efforts will include mobile vaccination clinics to reach people in 

a jurisdiction the size of Rhode Island, addressing COVID-19 related food insecurity issues, direct 

staffing requirements, and keeping Public Health facilities safe for essential staff and residents 

alike. 
PAGE 37

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

Public Health is one of three agencies affiliated with the county that serve areas with measurable 

minority populations without interfering with a jurisdiction that received its own direct ARPA funds. 

Public Health took great care to disseminate multi-lingual communications, outreach to minority 

communities, and operate in socioeconomically diverse areas throughout the pandemic. Public Health 

will continue to operate with the same level of care and sensitivity with these funds. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number of people vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine 

• Number of individuals and families served by WIC 

• Number of individuals served and pounds of food distributed through local Farmer’s Markets 

and food pantries 

Outcome Measures:

• Increase community health protection and reduce the spread of COVID-19 

• Increase access to healthy foods and nutritional education 

• Reduce food insecurity and increase access to healthy foods in underserved areas 
PAGE 38

COMMUNITY REPONSE 

& RECOVERY

COUNTY BUDGET DEPARTMENT

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Community Response & Recovery

FUNDING AMOUNT: $2,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Budget

PROJECT ID: FIN-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 2 - Negative Economic Impact

PURPOSE: Individual and Family Assistance

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: Local Non-Profit Organizations

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Unknown at this time

DESCRIPTION:

The El Paso County Individual Assistance Grant program will provide gap funding while residents 

apply for other aid to ensure no individual or household is left behind. Funding through the 

Individual Assistance Grant program will provide money to local non-profits organizations, who 

will then provide direct assistance to those financially impacted during the COVID -19 pandemic. 

Some of the planned uses of the funds are as follows: 

1. Rent, mortgage, and utilities

2. Food, clothing, and transportation

3. Counseling, medical, dental, hearing, eye care, and prescriptions

4. Home repairs, weathering, heating and cooling repairs/service, water heater repairs/

service, remediation of lead paint, or other lead hazards

The local non-profits can also use the Individual Assistance Grants to hire and pay staff who will 

provide services such as:

1. Counseling

2. Substance Abuse

3. Mental Health

4. Behavioral Health

5. Suicide Prevention

6. Employment Assistance

7. Financial and Debt Counseling or Budgeting

8. Legal Aid to prevent eviction or homelessness
PAGE 39

Local non-profit organizations will be required to apply for the grants through an application process. 

The applications will be scored and evaluated by a committee that will review the applications and 

award scores. These scores will be used to decide which non-profits will administer the Individual 

Assistance Grants. 

The non-profits will compile and provide monthly reports that communicate the number of people or 

households assisted with the funds.

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

This assistance will help low-income and struggling residents of El Paso County with funds to help while 

they await additional help. There is a high likelihood that many of the applicants for this assistance will 

reside in a qualified census tract. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Number of individuals & families assisted

• Age, race, and gender of participants

Outcome Measures:

• Number of individuals & families seeking assistance
PAGE 40

WATER, SEWER & BROADBAND

PUBLIC WORKS, ADMINISTRATION

& DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY & STRATEGY

EL PASO COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

El Paso County Department of Public Works owns and maintains the county highway 

network for the most populous County in Colorado. The County’s transportation network 

consists of more than 4,000 lane miles of paved and gravel roads and related right-of-way 

assets. The road network is one of the most critical assets owned and maintained by El 

Paso County. All aspects of the transportation system, including policy and standards, 

planning, and construction project execution, are handled by the Engineering Division’s 

Traffic Engineering, Design, Construction Management, Real Estate, and Infrastructure 

Planning sections. The Operations Division’s Highway Section handles in-house 

maintenance and repair of County roads and bridges, drainage, signs and signals, and 

right-of-way.
PAGE 41

EL PASO COUNTY ADMINISTRATION

El Paso County Administration is overseen by the County Administrator on behalf of the 

Board of County Commissioners. El Paso County Administration encompasses nonelected offices/departments which provide beneficial, efficient, and effective service to 

residents, businesses, visitors, volunteers, and employees of El Paso County. El Paso 

County administration is motivated by respect for citizen services and doing what’s right. 

Administration encompasses budget and finance, economic and community development, 

planning, public works, community services, parks and recreation, human services, 

veteran services, and justice services. Over 2,500 El Paso County employees are dedicated 

to providing the citizens of El Paso County with essential and recreational services.

EL PASO COUNTY DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY & STRATEGY

El Paso County Digital, Strategy, & Technology (DST) Department enables the strategies 

and delivers the technology services that propel the success of County Offices and 

Departments. DST inspires the transformation of citizen service delivery through digital 

government initiatives, enterprise strategy, and traditional information technology 

services.
PAGE 42

WATER, SEWER & BROADBAND

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Investments in Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure

FUNDING AMOUNT: $5,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Public Works

PROJECT ID: PW-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 5 - Infrastructure

PURPOSE: Investment Stormwater Infrastructure

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Unknown at this time

DESCRIPTION:

All levels of infrastructure have seen increased demands during COVID-19, and stormwater is no 

exception. El Paso County plans to invest in allowable stormwater infrastructure programs that 

have a regional and long-term impact. All projects will meet federal climate change requirements 

as outlined in reporting and project selection guidance. The funds will only be used in the vast 

unincorporated area of the county, in coordination with another municipality or jurisdiction, or on 

county-owned property. The main objective of the stormwater projects is to manage stormwater, 

subsurface drainage and to manage potential sources of pollution of stormwater as it is returned 

to creeks and waterways. 

All water and stormwater infrastructure programs undertaken with American Rescue Plan 

funding will have the goals to produce high-quality infrastructure, avert disruptive and costly 

delays, promote efficiency, and should strive to address climate change. Finally, all projects will 

comply with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (“EPA”) Clean Water State Revolving Fund 

(“CWSRF”) or the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (“DWSRF”). Information regarding the 

CWSRF can be found at https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf, and information regarding the DWSRF can be 

found at https://www.epa.gov/dwsrf. 
PAGE 43

LABOR PRACTICES:

El Paso County will promote and require strong labor standards with all contracts for any water, sewer, 

and broadband projects funded using American Rescue Plan funds. El Paso County will include in our 

contracts project labor agreements and community benefits agreements that offer wages at or above 

the local prevailing rate and will include local hire provisions as required by the American Rescue Plan. 

However, it is essential to note that the Davis-Bacon Act requirement does not apply to infrastructure 

projects funded solely with American Rescue Plan funds unless the infrastructure project receives 

additional funding from another federal program that requires the use of the Davis-Bacon Act. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

While there are no QCTs or large minority populations in the unincorporated portions of El Paso 

County, large areas within the county’s jurisdiction qualify as low to moderate-income under the 

Community Development Block Grant Program guidelines. Rural populations also often have an 

unrecognized lack of access to support services, homelessness issues, or economic disadvantage. The 

COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues. Therefore, the county will pay special attention to these 

areas when making project or grant funding decisions to ensure additional services are provided to 

underserved populations.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• The project is designed to maintain permit compliance or meet any new permit effluent limits

• Projects are compliant with the County Municipal Seperate Storm Sewer System (“MS4”) Permit, 

and if it crosses jurisdictional boundaries, they are completed in coordination with partner 

jurisdictions

• Projects apply Best Managment Practices (“BMPs”) to mitigate against stormwater impacts, 

including but not limited to erosion, sedimentation, pollution runoff

Outcome Measures:

• The number of impacted residents whose water quality or access has improved through project 

implementation or completing planning documents

• The project improves or maintains the water quality of the body of water

• The project includes collaboration with municipalities and community stakeholders to address 

the stormwater management within the region
PAGE 44

WATER, SEWER & BROADBAND

COUNTY ADMINISTRATION

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Investments in Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure

FUNDING AMOUNT: $8,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: County Administration

PROJECT ID: WATER-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 5 - Infrastructure

PURPOSE: Investment Area Water Projects

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Unknown at this time

DESCRIPTION:

Water is Colorado’s most precious—and scarce—natural resource. El Paso County needs water 

to sustain its 730,000 residents, five major military installations, a landmass larger than Rhode 

Island, and a robust agricultural industry, including farms and ranches. Water is supplied to the 

region through a complex network of up to 27 different utilities, water, and sanitation districts. 

Colorado water law is a deep niche subject in which only a select few specialize. The same is true 

of those that possess the knowledge to properly vet project requests. 

Given that reality, El Paso County will follow all proper procurement policies to contract with 

competent legal counsel and a firm to help the county develop a project application and select 

recipients. The consistent goal will be to select projects which improve the drinking water 

infrastructure, upgrade facilities, distribution, storage, replacement, or sustainability efforts, and 

address climate change. Additionally, the county will be mindful that recipients must complete 

any projects within the timeframe allowed by law. 

Pre-project development includes costs tied to an eligible project, and those reasonably expected 

to lead to a project. For example, the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (“DWSRF”) allows for 

planning and evaluations uses, as well as numerous pre-project development costs, including 

costs associated with obtaining project authorization, planning and design, and project start-up 

training, and warranty for equipment. Likewise, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (“CWSRF”) 

allows for broad pre-project development, including planning and assessment activities, such 

as cost and effectiveness analyses, water/energy audits and conservation plans, and capital 

improvement plans. 

El Paso County also intends to solicit applications to fund wastewater projects by providing grant 

funding to local wastewater providers. Local wastewater providers can use this grant funding to 

meet objectives like those stated above. 
PAGE 45

The current plan only allows for grant recipients outside of the boundaries of Colorado Springs 

Utilities, which services roughly 470,000 area residents. 

LABOR PRACTICES:

El Paso County will promote and require strong labor standards with all contracts that will be entered 

into for any water, sewer, and broadband projects funded using American Rescue Plan funds. El Paso 

County will include in our contracts project labor agreements and community benefits agreements 

that offer wages at or above the local prevailing rate and will include local hire provisions as required 

by the American Rescue Plan. However, it is essential to note that the Davis-Bacon Act requirement 

does not apply to infrastructure projects funded solely with American Rescue Plan funds unless the 

infrastructure project receives additional funding from another federal program that requires the use 

of the Davis-Bacon Act. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

While there are no QCTs or large minority populations in the unincorporated portions of El Paso 

County, large areas within the county’s jurisdiction qualify as low to moderate-income under the 

Community Block Grant Program guidelines. Rural populations also often have an unrecognized lack of 

access to support services, homelessness issues, or economic disadvantage. The COVID-19 pandemic 

exacerbated these issues, therefore the county will pay special attention to these areas when 

making project or grant funding decisions to ensure additional services are provided to underserved 

populations. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• The county will fill these measures in after identifying and collaborating with the consultant

Outcome Measures:

• The county will fill these measures in after identifying and collaborating with the consultant
PAGE 46

WATER, SEWER & BROADBAND

DIGITAL STRATEGY & TECHNOLOGY

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Investments in Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure

FUNDING AMOUNT: $6,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Information Technology

PROJECT ID: IT-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 5 - Infrastructure

PURPOSE: Investment in Broadband Infrastructure

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Unknown at this time

DESCRIPTION:

The infrastructure component most strained by the COVID-19 pandemic is internet connectivity. 

During the height of the pandemic, the home became the office, school, restaurant, church, 

marketplace, healthcare facility, and the gym. Internet connectivity became a person’s link to the 

outside world, commerce, and many creature comforts. However, the pandemic exposed how 

even those within well-served areas could see interruptions in speed and reliability based on the 

massive demands placed on the system. 

While U.S. Census reports show 90% of El Paso County residents are connected to the internet, 

the region’s geography and size make delivering high-speed internet to everyone a unique 

challenge. For example, in county the size of Rhode Island, many residents in the eastern and 

southern portions of the county do not meet the standard delivery speeds contemplated in the 

ARPA. In addition, private providers have long struggled with the costs required to lay miles of 

fiber to relatively few residents. 

Thankfully, ARPA funds allow the county to help overcome this problem. The Response Recovery 

Resiliency Plan will fund “middle mile” projects connecting county facilities in a way that will 

provide the capacity to allow private providers to build and deliver “last mile” broadband services 

directly to residents. Furthermore, the county will create an open and competitive process 

to solicit and evaluate proposals from private providers to partner on initiatives that lead to 

increased quality and availability of broadband for our underserved residents in alignment with 

the 2019 El Paso County Broadband Strategic Plan. The overarching goal is to meet or exceed 

symmetrical upload and download speeds of 100Mbs. This effort is crucial to keep school 

children from falling behind, and keep rural communities competitive with their urban neighbors. 
PAGE 47

The county will pay special attention to project timelines and costs to ensure all work is completed 

by the legal deadline and all expenses fall within an allowable use. For example, pre-project costs 

associated with planning and engineering for broadband infrastructure build-out is considered an 

eligible use of funds, as well as technical assistance and evaluations that would reasonably be expected 

to lead to the commencement of a suitable project (e.g., broadband mapping for the purposes to find 

an area for investment). 

LABOR PRACTICES:

El Paso County will promote and require strong labor standards with all contracts that will be entered 

into for any water, sewer, and broadband projects funded using American Rescue Plan funds. El Paso 

County will include in our contracts project labor agreements and community benefits agreements 

that offer wages at or above the local prevailing rate and will include local hire provisions as required 

by the American Rescue Plan. However, it is essential to note that the Davis-Bacon Act requirement 

does not apply to infrastructure projects funded solely with American Rescue Plan funds unless the 

infrastructure project receives additional funding from another federal program that requires the use 

of the Davis-Bacon Act. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

While there are no QCTs or large minority populations in the unincorporated portions of El Paso 

County, large areas within the county’s jurisdiction qualify as low to moderate-income under the 

Community Block Grant Program guidelines. Rural populations also often have an unrecognized lack of 

access to support services, homelessness issues, or economic disadvantage. The COVID-19 pandemic 

exacerbated these issues . Therefore, the county will pay special attention to these areas when 

making project or grant funding decisions to ensure additional services are provided to underserved 

populations. This is especially crucial given that during the height of the pandemic, the home 

became the office, school, restaurant, church, marketplace, healthcare facility, and the gym. Internet 

connectivity became a person’s link to the outside world, commerce, and many creature comforts. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• The number of organizations with which the county partners to provide increased broadband 

speeds to underserved populations

• The number of “middle mile” projects the county completes to its facilities positively correlate 

with the efforts of others

Outcome Measures:

• The number of underserved residents who gained access to quality broadband through county 

partnerships

• The number of residents whose number of available providers increased as a result of the 

county partnership

• The number of residents whose price for quality broadband declined as a result of more 

competition in the market
PAGE 48

OTHER FUND USES

ADMINISTRATION

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Grant Administration

FUNDING AMOUNT: $1,000,000

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Administration

PROJECT ID: FIN-ARPA-2021-01

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: 7 - Administrative

PURPOSE: Administrative

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Unknown at this time

DESCRIPTION:

A minor portion of funds will be reserved for program administration. Program administration costs 

may include outside legal counsel, staffing needs, or other unanticipated needs. All funds used from 

this category will only support ARPA administration work and not regular county functions. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

El Paso County is an equal opportunity employer. The county does not discriminate against 

persons because of their genetic information, age, gender, color, race, religion, national origin, 

marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or political affiliation in making employment decisions, 

including determining suitability for employment, compensation, promotion, transfers, education, 

or discharge. Selection decisions will be made in a non-discriminatory manner consistent with this 

policy and EEO principles. 

Additionally, El Paso County follows all federal laws and regulations to ensure full compliance of the 

same. The county, as a recipient and subrecipient of federal funds will follow all requirements as set 

forth in 42 USC Chapter 21—Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ensure that no one individual or business is 

excluded or denied the benefit of federal assistance or grants. El Paso County’s Title VI Plan shall be 

followed to ensure compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Will be measured through the program to which additional funds are allocated

Outcome Measures:

• Will be measured through the program to which additional funds are allocated
PAGE 49

PRIORITY CATEGORY: Unallocated Funds

FUNDING AMOUNT: $2,964,919

MANAGING DEPARTMENT: Administration

PROJECT ID: N/A

PROJECT STATUS: Planning Phase

EXPENDITURE CATEGORIES: To Be Identified

PURPOSE: Administrative Support

COMMUNITY PARTNERS: To Be Identified

IN A QUALIFIED CENSUS TRACT: Tracking

DESCRIPTION:

The plan outlined above will undoubtedly require additional funds to fully implement. However, this 

portion of unallocated funds will allow El Paso County to meet new needs and react quickly to the 

changing COVID-19 environment without sacrificing other strategic goals. 

RACIAL EQUITY & INCLUSION:

El Paso County follows all federal laws and regulations to ensure full compliance of the same. The 

county, as a recipient and subrecipient of federal funds, will follow all requirements as set forth in 

42 USC Chapter 21—Civil Rights Act of 1964 to ensure that no one individual or business is excluded 

or denied the benefit of federal assistance or grants. El Paso County’s Title VI Plan shall be followed 

to ensure compliance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

Any new allocations of funding drawing from this portion will go into a pre-defined allowable use 

and will comply with racial equity and inclusion guidelines. 

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

Output Measures:

• Will be measured through the program to which additional funds are allocated 

Outcome Measures:

• Will be measured through the program to which additional funds are allocated 
PAGE 50

TABLE OF EXPENSES

BY EXPENDITURE CATEGORY

EL PASO COUNTY EXPENDITURES

As of July 31, 2021

1

1.1

1.2

1.6

Expenditure Category: Public Health

COVID-19 Vaccination

COVID-19 Testing

Medical Expenses

Including Alternative Care Facilities

1.9 Payroll Costs

Public Health, Safety

Other Public Sector Staff Responding to COVID-19

CUMMALITIVE 

EXPENDITURES TO DATE

AMOUNT SPENT SINCE 

LAST RECOVERY PLAN

EXPENDITURES

CATEGORY

$31,482

$108,985

$17,972

$4,560,581

$31,482

$108,985

$17,972

$4,560,581

Total: Public Health $4,719,020 $4,719,020

2

2.11

2.13

Expenditure Category: Negative Economic Impacts

Aid to Tourism, Travel or Hospitality

Other Economic Support

$500,000

$51,490

$500,000

$51,490

Total: Negative Economic Impacts $551,490 $551,490

Total Expenditures for all Categories $5,270,510 $5,270,510
PAGE 51

REVENUE REPLACEMENT

FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 2020

The American Rescue Plan Act allows for Counties to use State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds 

(“SLFRF”) to offset revenue losses due the COVID-19 pandemic. El Paso County has not experienced 

a loss in revenue because of the COVID-19 pandemic and, therefore, will not be utilizing any of the 

funds for revenue replacement in 2021. The following chart shows the revenue replacement amounts 

required to be reported regarding revenue during the COVID-19 pandemic.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES:

FISCAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2020

*Average annual growth rate based on the years: 2017, 2018, and 2019

**Estimated 2020 revenue based on the growth rate

Base Year Revenue 2019 .....................................................................$350,825,531

Growth Rate*.......................................................................................................5.1%

Counterfactural Revenue**................................................................$368,588,610

Actual Revenue 2020 ...........................................................................$377,292,977
PROMOTING 

EQUITABLE OUTCOMES

El Paso County is committed to promoting equitable outcomes with ARPA funds. Given the 

statutorily mandated division of responsibilities between state, county, and city governments 

within Colorado, the areas in which the county can impact equitable outcomes most are through 

economic development, the Pikes Peak Workforce Center, and Public Health. Those entities 

can operate within any area municipality without impacting that jurisdiction’s plans for their 

direct ARPA funding. Other county services, such as stormwater, water projects, and broadband 

infrastructure, will operate in areas where little or no direct ARPA funds were directly awarded 

to a recipient. There are no qualified census tracts in unincorporated El Paso County, but this 

division of labor allows each citizen to receive a benefit from these funds. 

As noted above, the most diverse areas of El Paso County are concentrated within a jurisdiction 

that received direct ARPA funds.

PAGE 52

RESPONSE . RECOVERY . RESILIENCY