Travis County received public comment July 15 on the draft CDBG/HOME Program Year 2025 action plan, with callers urging greater transparency about project selection and use of funds, and asking how the plan addresses transportation access for low-income residents.

Speaker Zenobia Joseph questioned how the Creedmoor project was selected for $1.6 million in HOME funding and asked why a $100,000 line for "disaster response interim assistance" appeared while the court had just authorized a separate $3 million emergency transfer. Joseph asked the county to ensure the public notice and application process were accessible, including language about how to submit presentations and remote comments.

Monique Coleman, Supportive Housing Division director, told the court the HOME program had not yet launched and that staff would brief the court on the program July 24. She said the county has allocated $36 million to support Community First Village construction in partnership with Mobile Loaves and Fishes and that the HOME program is intended to provide down-payment assistance and homeowner assistance to income-eligible clients in the HOME service area.

Ngati Pedado, CDBG planning manager, opened the hearing and noted the public comment period runs through July 21. The court said it will include today's comments in the meeting minutes and in the final action plan package and asked staff to return to the court for approval on Aug. 5 before submission to HUD on Aug. 15.

Ending: County staff asked the public to submit written comments during the posted 30-day period and said staff will compile remarks into the final action plan for the court's August consideration.