Council adopts CAPER; staff to reallocate HOME funds toward supportive services and rental assistance

The Port Huron City Council formally adopted the city’s Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for the 2024 program year to submit to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The resolution to submit the CAPER was moved by Council Member Pemberton and supported by Council Member Lam; the roll call vote was unanimous.

Jasmine, a city housing staff member, summarized accomplishments in the CAPER: two neighborhood cleanups (spring and fall) in low- and moderate-income census tracts, 29 housing rehabilitation projects across exterior and elderly repair programs, and seven down-payment-assistance awards through the Urban Pioneer program. She said the city will solicit nonprofit partners to provide credit-repair and other supportive services and that the 2025 grant agreement is secured.

Jasmine also told the council staff will seek a substantial amendment to reallocate about $400,000 that had been reserved for a non-congregate shelter. “We have found that the cost to try and turn any sort of structure into a non-congregate shelter is far beyond $400,000,” she said, and non-profits recommended shifting the funds to supportive services and rental assistance because rehabilitation and construction costs are much higher.

Council members asked about outreach and how residents learn about services; Jasmine said the city will post requests for proposals on the city website and BidNet, and staff are meeting with nonprofit partners to describe expectations.

Ending: The CAPER will be submitted to HUD by the September 30 deadline; staff will return to council if the proposed substantial amendment proceeds.