Norman council authorizes $1.33 million HUD application, adopts five‑year CDBG plan

The Norman City Council on May 13 authorized submission of the city’s five‑year consolidated plan and the fiscal 2025 action plan — a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME program application totaling $1,334,879 — to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The consolidated plan, required for HUD entitlement communities, sets the city’s priorities for affordable housing, housing rehabilitation, public services and limited economic development over the next five years. Lisa Craig, the city’s CDBG grants planner, told the council the submission assumes “level funding” and said the draft plan relies on citizen consultations and a 15‑member citizen advisory committee to set priorities.

Craig told council that the city expects a CDBG allocation roughly in line with last year — “a little over $944,000” — and a HOME program allocation of “almost $400,000.” She outlined program priorities that mirror HUD’s goals: decent housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities, and said the HOME program will be used to increase the supply of affordable housing.

Craig said the action plan includes administrative and planning funds, a housing rehabilitation program with two staff members, a $55,000 public‑services allocation to fund a housing navigator in partnership with the Affordable Housing Corporation, and funds for neighborhood projects and acquisition for partners such as Norman CHDO and Habitat. She confirmed the city will meet HUD requirements, including the CHDO set‑aside of 15 percent of HOME funds.

During the public hearing, resident Evan asked whether “tiny houses” were being researched as an affordable housing option. Craig responded that the city is evaluating small‑unit approaches but that single‑room‑occupancy (SRO) or attached small units are more economical than detached tiny houses because shared walls lower infrastructure and plumbing costs. She added that recreational vehicles are not being considered because they do not meet HUD minimum housing standards for HOME and CDBG‑funded activities.

Heidi Smith, a longtime participant in the city’s housing and homelessness work, praised Craig and the citizen process and urged council to move forward. “CDBG was the gateway to me talking about homelessness in the city of Norman,” Smith told council, and she said having a consolidated plan has helped the city secure additional funds, including more than $600,000 for permanent supportive and emergency shelter in prior cycles.

Councilmembers complimented the grants staff and indicated support for the plan. After the public hearing closed, the council voted unanimously to authorize submission of the consolidated plan and fiscal 2025 action plan to HUD.

City staff said they expect official award letters soon and will return to council with required certifications and contract approvals once funding amounts are finalized.