Council hears public testimony on 2026 CDBG action plan; human services recommendations move to Nov. 5
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Summary
At a required HUD public hearing, city staff presented the draft 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) action plan, including recommended funding for repair and shelter programs. Staff will accept written comments through Oct. 27 and bring a final action to the Nov. 5 council meeting.
Human Services Coordinator Layla Wilson presented the city’s draft 2026 Community Development Block Grant action plan during a HUD-required public hearing at the Oct. 21 meeting.
Wilson summarized priorities — economic development, affordable housing, homelessness prevention and suitable living environments — and presented staff and Human Services Commission recommendations for projects and funding. The draft plan includes program administration and public service allocations and recommended awards to multiple local providers.
Speakers from nonprofit partners urged support. John Gilliland, chief impact officer for Habitat for Humanity Seattle‑King County, described the affiliate’s repair program and urged the council to continue funding repairs that support aging in place and anti‑displacement work. Homeowner Elizabeth Cole described how Habitat repaired an unsafe electrical panel and plumbing at her older house. Megan (Meghan) Anderson of Fusion thanked the council for recommended funds that support Fusion’s job‑training cafe and housing programs. Kate Lemley, a Habitat project manager, said Habitat’s Federal Way repair pipeline includes an 18‑month wait list and that the recommended award supports senior‑targeted minor‑repair work.
The Human Services Commission recommended awards to eight agencies; Habitat for Humanity is recommended for $150,000 for critical home repair and $100,000 for minor home repair programs that serve seniors and low‑income homeowners. Staff will accept written comments through Oct. 27; council is scheduled to take final action Nov. 5.
Why it matters: the CDBG program is a federally funded grant administered by HUD that cities use for low‑ and moderate‑income housing, services and neighborhood improvements. The city’s funding decisions determine which local providers can deliver repairs, shelter, job training and other services in Federal Way.
Next steps: staff will close the second public hearing, accept written comments until Oct. 27, and return the draft 2026 action plan for final council action on Nov. 5.
