These COVID-19 pandemic relief funds have been distributed through the U.S. Treasury, and are meant to help the city to battle back against the hardships caused by the virus.

A third work session lasting just more than two hours was held remotely over YouTube on Monday, and it yielded some surprises, including Councilman Jon Mackey’s siren call to get the Brandon Park baseball fields playable again by a $1.5 million investment.

Another shocker was an estimated flood-control project cost of $3 million to $5 million to reduce flood risk posed by Grafius Run, by the acquisition of properties and building of retention basins.

“We can’t wait five more years,” Councilman Randall J. Allison said in addressing Grafius Run.

Little League fields in need of repair at Brandon Park on Tuesday. KAREN VIBERT-KENNEDY/Sun-Gazette

At least $2 million was needed to go toward pump house fixes and cross pipe draingage as part of the levee recertification, Mayor Derek Slaughter said. He said he’d also like to see about $2 million on up to $4 million invested in blight remediation and redevelopment through establishing a land bank authority.

Councilwoman Liz Miele said, after speaking to local real estate agents, the city could also amplify its home buyer program with a 0% revolving loan for first-time homebuyers.

Slaughter said he is looking at adding a splash pad and a bicycle trail at Shaw Place Park in the city’s East End, and adding bathrooms to various parks.

The city has a plan in place to make city parks accessible and is using state government grants that have been secured such as those for Lose and Youngs Woods parks.

Fire Chief Mark Killian said he was looking at an estimated $3 million on replacing two fire engines and a ladder truck.

Miele said investment in a comprehensive economic development plan and attention to small businesses impacted by the pandemic also should be considered.

Also, plans are in place as the city needs to replace water lines, improve stormwater management systems and add curbing in low-lying areas where water pools and ponds.

Under the treasury rules, the money can’t be used to pay down city debt or cover pensions.

Several of these proposed projects will be brought for council for further review.

Separately, council holds the first of two budget work sessions at 7 p.m. Monday and 7 p.m. Dec. 1.

A council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2.