Longview Times

The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) voted on the final version of the 2020 budget, which totals more than $58 million in spending. 

This year marked the council's 100th semi-annual board meeting, during which the organization approves the budget proposals and discusses other matters relevant to its mission and stated goals. As a virtual event on Sept. 24, the board reviewed these topics and more while allowing for suggestions and deliberations from members and leaders. 

The organization has long been recognized for providing guidance and support to elected officials from around East Texas. They also advise on the disbursement of grant funds and oversee grant funds for which they are a recipient. 

The ETCOG has been able to provide organizations and governments from around the region with grant funds that have been carefully distributed according to need and merit. This year, the budget of $58 million represents an increase of about $600,000. Most of this extra spending comes from CARES Act funding that the ETCOG received as a response to the coronavirus pandemic, which will be dispersed to relevant organizations.