"...  meetings with local businesses to encourage participation and to gain financial support."

I am not encouraged. This participation and financial support should have been locked in before ARM went to the City Council. There is no point in spending even "only .05 percent of the city’s budget" if this program cannot be self-supporting.

"... there won’t be time to meet the Oct. 31 deadline for 2018 ..."

How much time does it take? ARM approached the City Council in June of this year asking for funding. At that time, according to the July 4 issue of the Daily World, ARM was still working on a business plan. It doesn't sound like it's ready.

I hope the City keeps finger on the 60-day button.