Pandemic relief funding has allowed both Struthers and Warren to make some technology updates to meet remotely and still involve the public.

Struthers received about $509,000 in three installments, Mayor Catherine Cercone Miller said.

As a result, 15 new iPads and accessories have been purchased for $5,200.

One device each will go to city employees who routinely attend council meetings, Miller said.

The catapult into technology has been met with mixed feelings, she said, but overall everyone is on board with learning the new system, “open to changes.”

“We have some people from the younger generation who are used to technology and operating this way,” but some in the administration are apprehensive, Miller said.

“I really think after we go through this a couple times with Zoom everyone is going to understand more and be more excited about how easy it is,” she said.

The city uses GoToMeetings now, which are audio conference calls.

City officials also have decided to use a portion of the funds to update the city’s website, Miller said. Now residents will be able to make tax payments on the site.

The administration also is looking into a citywide all call and texting system, Miller said.

The benefits from the relief funds aren’t restricted to technology.

Relief funding has allowed for overtime as well as additional hours for an employee who checks temperatures as people enter the building, Miller said.

Updates to hardware within the building have been made, including to sinks, faucets and soap dispensers, as well as a touchless water fountain, Miller said.

Departments throughout the city will receive relief funds, Miller said, including the wastewater treatment plant and first responders.

“We have a lot that we’re doing with the money. We’re not putting it all in one place,” she said.

Everything the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act money is spent on will be related to COVID-19, Miller said, adding: “We’re using that money to adjust” to the pandemic.

In Warren, city council received iPads for each of its members and its clerk, in preparation for council to begin having Zoom meeting after the first of the year.

Council President Jim Graham expects the council to begin having its twice-monthly meetings, as well as any needed committee meetings, using internet meeting services.

“I expect some council members will continue to go to the council chambers during these meetings, but (there are) those that are uncomfortable meeting in person due to the coronavirus pandemic,” Graham said. “Residents wanting to present information to council or make a complaint will still have the opportunity to come to our regular meetings to speak.”

The iPads cost $429 each. They are being paid for with part of the more than $3 million the city received through the coronavirus relief funds.

Warren Auditor Vince Flask said the city ordered a total 62 iPads using the federal funds. Warren’s council and water departments each received 12 iPads, its Engineering, Planning and Building department received 10 iPads. Seven other departments also received the devices.

Council members will be trained on using the devices during a special session held prior to the Dec. 23 council meeting.

Councilwoman Helen Rucker, D-at large, suggested the council buy laptops or iPads in April, as people became increasingly concerned about in-person meetings during a pandemic.

Safety Service Director Eddie Colbert said department heads and other city employees will not attend council meetings in person. They will attend the meeting via the social media meeting place.