Brookline plans $6.5M CDBG funding for affordable housing and community services

The Brookline Select Board convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss critical community development initiatives, particularly focusing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. This meeting served as a platform for town officials to outline plans for the upcoming five-year consolidated plan, which is essential for securing federal funding aimed at addressing housing and community needs.

The meeting featured presentations from key figures in the planning department, including Ijuana Linda Smith, the housing and community planning director, and Jacob Collins, the community planner. They emphasized the importance of public input in shaping the CDBG allocations, which are projected to total approximately $6.5 million over the next five years. This funding is crucial for supporting affordable housing, public services, and infrastructure improvements in Brookline.

A significant takeaway from the discussions was the community's strong demand for affordable housing. Collins noted that feedback from residents highlighted the need for both new affordable units and the modernization of existing ones. The CDBG advisory board, which plays a pivotal role in recommending how funds should be allocated, has already identified affordable housing as a top priority based on extensive consultations with community stakeholders.

In addition to housing, the meeting addressed the pressing issue of food insecurity, which has become increasingly relevant due to rising costs. The board acknowledged the need for enhanced support for vulnerable populations, particularly as they age, and discussed strategies for economic development aimed at low and moderate-income youth.

The board also outlined the timeline for the CDBG program, indicating that a draft of the consolidated plan would be available for public comment until May 13, 2025. This timeline is critical as it leads up to a vote on the annual action plan, which is necessary for the town to submit its funding application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Overall, the meeting underscored Brookline's commitment to addressing community needs through strategic planning and public engagement. As the town prepares for the upcoming funding cycle, the emphasis on affordable housing and community services reflects a proactive approach to enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The Select Board's next steps will involve finalizing the action plan and ensuring that community voices continue to shape the town's development priorities.