IURA and city to explore compensated collaboration as federal HOME funding wanes

The IURA approved a resolution directing agency and city staff to identify opportunities for compensated collaboration after federal funding changes left the IURA with fewer HOME dollars. Staff said CVV funds are expected to continue to the city, but HOME funds may not — a projection described in the meeting as a best guess rather than a final decision.

The resolution asks IURA staff and city staff to explore possible reimbursable services the IURA could provide to the city, with the goal of formalizing arrangements so the IURA is compensated for services it currently provides informally. A staff presenter noted the 2013 agreement between the city and IURA contains language that requires IURA authorization for city activities when reimbursement is involved; the new resolution authorizes the chair to act within that framework.

IURA staff and the board discussed that some work could proceed without formal council approval (for example, when staff time can be charged directly to a capital project with city authorization), but that council approval would be required if the city proposed an expenditure out of the city budget that specifically reimburses the IURA. The resolution passed unanimously; the transcript records discussion but no specific service agreements or budget amounts.

The agency asked staff to return with specific proposals for collaboration and funding mechanisms during the 2026 budget process or sooner if opportunities arise.