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Cape Girardeau opens public comment period for five‑year CDBG plan; Porch Initiative pledges partnership
Summary
City held a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) five‑year housing and community development needs assessment, announcing an estimated HUD allocation and soliciting public input through April 21.
The City of Cape Girardeau opened a public hearing April 7 to gather comments for its fiscal year 2025–2029 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program needs assessment.
City staff said HUD estimated the city’s FY2025 allocation at roughly $324,000; staff expects about $260,000 would be available for direct community investments in the first fiscal year after administrative set‑asides. The funds may be used to benefit low‑ and moderate‑income persons, prevent or eliminate slums and blight, address urgent needs that threaten health and welfare, and create suitable living environments and economic opportunities.
Tamara Zellers Buck, speaking for Porch Initiative, told the council the organization supports the city’s pursuit of CDBG funding and said Porch will “serve as a connector to the people and providers in South Cape.” Buck added, “We stand ready to work alongside you.”
A city staff member with prior CDBG program experience described the program as potentially “transformational” if properly managed, based on work in another city. City staff noted the program includes federal controls and reporting requirements and will be stakeholder driven; written comments will be accepted through April 21, and paper copies of the survey and details are available at City Hall and local community centers.
Council members who have worked on related efforts, including a gun violence task force, said housing, blight reduction and homeownership are among topics the city hopes to address with CDBG resources. The hearing was opened and closed during the April 7 meeting; staff will accept public comments until April 21 and use input to shape the five‑year plan ahead of the program start date October 1.
