The town of Kent has been awarded $821,855 in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to be distributed from the federal government this year and next.  The money must be used to aid in recovery from COVID-19.  The Kent Board of Selectman has established a Needs Assessment Committee to determine how best to use the ARPA funds. The Committee includes First Selectman Jean Speck, the town's Treasurer, and 4 community volunteers.  During the first two meetings the group discussed needs of various groups of Kent residents.  Two surveys will be released by the group soon for taxpayers and business owners to weigh in on the allocation priorities.  The Committee will be organizing a series of focus groups to hear specific needs.