Killeen staff propose reprogramming HOME funds, drop HUD-certified counseling requirement for TBRA

KILLEEN, Texas — City staff opened a public hearing June 3 to inform residents of a proposed substantial amendment to reprogram leftover HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funds toward tenant-based rental assistance (TBRA) and to remove the city's local requirement that TBRA beneficiaries complete HUD-certified housing counseling.

The change would be part of the city's consolidated plan cycle and is intended to speed assistance to eligible households, city staff said. "The substantial amendment occurs when there is a change in the purpose, scope, location, or beneficiaries of an activity or project," said Ms. McNair, a Community Development staff member leading the presentation. She said the amendments would open a 30-day public comment period from June 9 through July 15 and that council would be asked to take action at a July 15 meeting if the drafts are finalized.

The nut of the staff recommendation is to move previously allocated HOME funds into TBRA to meet…