City approves 2025 CDBG allocations of $411,100; public hearing set for July 16

City staff presented the City of Grand Junction’s recommended allocations for the 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program year and the City Council voted to approve the allocations and set a public hearing for adoption of the 2025 annual action plan on July 16, 2025.

The action matters because CDBG funds are federal dollars from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) intended to support housing, infrastructure and community services for low- and moderate-income residents. The approved allocation directs funds to local priorities including an affordable housing incentive program and potential emergency shelter-capacity expenses.

Kira Ald, identified in the meeting as the city’s new CDBG and housing project specialist, told council that Grand Junction’s 2025 HUD allocation is $407,684 and that the city expects to reallocate $3,416.22 in unspent prior-year funds, for a total estimated program-year funding of $411,100.22. Ald said the 2025 program year runs from Sept. 1, 2025, through Aug. 31, 2026, and reminded council that CDBG funds must meet one of HUD’s national objectives.

Ashley Chambers, the housing manager, presented staff recommendations for distributing the funds. Chambers said staff is recommending the maximum allowable 20% for CDBG administration to cover staff time, training, compliance and reporting; using CDBG funds as local match to pursue state grants and update the housing needs assessment and consolidated plan; allocating approximately $218,410 toward sewer and water tap fees for the city’s affordable housing incentive program (to support both for-sale units under 100% AMI and rental tiers under 60% AMI); allocating $50,000 to Parks and Recreation for an as-yet-unidentified park project in a low- and moderate-income census tract; and using the maximum allowable 15% (about $61,000) for in‑house services and capital, potentially including conversion costs, beds, or staffing for emergency shelter.

During the public hearing there were no public commenters on the item. Council then approved a motion to adopt the recommended allocations and to set the public hearing on the 2025 annual action plan for July 16, 2025; the motion passed with all council members recorded in favor.

The city will now proceed with steps required by HUD, including the July public hearing and final adoption of the annual action plan to obligate funds for the 2025 program year.