PHILADELPHIA, PA — Allegheny County has agreed to pay more than $629,000 to settle allegations that it failed to meet federal cost-sharing requirements tied to AmeriCorps grant funding, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced Tuesday.
The settlement addresses claims that, between 2018 and 2020, the county misrepresented the value of in-kind contributions it was required to provide as part of its agreement to receive federal support for its AmeriCorps program. Specifically, the county was unable to produce documentation for $314,521 in claimed contributions, which included items such as classroom space and employee salaries.
Of the total $629,043 settlement, $314,521 is designated as restitution for unsupported claims.
“When receiving federal funds, grantees must meet the terms of the agreements tied to those funds,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf. “This settlement is a reminder that organizations receiving federal grant funds must adhere to grant compliance requirements.”
Acting AmeriCorps Inspector General Stephen Ravas added that such requirements are critical to ensuring the success of AmeriCorps initiatives, and that oversight will continue for organizations that fail to meet their obligations.
The settlement resolves civil claims under the False Claims Act. The case was investigated by the AmeriCorps Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony St. Joseph handling the matter. The government made no determination of liability.
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