During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the allocation and impact of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, emphasizing the need for economic justice investments. The conversation highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by home repair programs, with a significant waitlist of over 1,200 applicants, up from 900 in the previous year. Despite an increase in funding and repairs completed, officials acknowledged the necessity for more local funds to meet the growing demand.

The meeting also addressed the Section 108 loan program, which has historically funded major projects in the city, including a hotel and community developments. Officials noted that while no new projects are currently funded through this program, there is a strong community push for prioritizing housing initiatives in future investments. The upcoming March Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) is expected to include applications for Section 108 loans, focusing on housing production and preservation.

Additionally, the administration is actively seeking increased federal funding for CDBGs, recognizing the long-term need for sustainable investment in community development. Officials expressed concern over the potential for scaling back programs once pandemic-related funding diminishes, stressing the importance of consistent support to foster neighborhood revitalization. The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency and ongoing communication with community members regarding the status of home repair applications and funding opportunities.