Syracuse City board approves budget, adopts amended Neighborhood Block Challenge program

Syracuse City officials on an organizational board meeting authorized a budget that incorporates an expected first state disbursement of $2,000,000 from ESD and the city's $2.5 million contribution, and voted to adopt amended terms for a Neighborhood Block Challenge (BCP) matching-grant program.

The new budget assumes a total of about $4,500,000 available by the end of the board's organizational fiscal year, including a $2,000,000 first tranche from ESD and $2.5 million from the city. Michelle, Deputy Commissioner of Neighborhood Development, told the board that the city's contribution may cover up to 10% for indirect program administration and fringe (a cap of $250,000) and that ESD funds cannot be used for administrative expenses and will only be allowed for direct in-home expenses.

Why this matters: the decisions set how quickly neighborhood programs can be launched this fall and how much city staff time the programs may draw. Board members and residents pressed to move dollars into a small, weather-dependent matching grant program so work can start before the end of the season.

Board discussion and key program terms

Michelle said ESD's first disbursement is expected after ESD completes internal reviews and that the organization has been told the $2,000,000 tranche should be available around September.…