Council approves HUD consolidated plan and CDBG action plan; members press for clarity on 'substandard housing' and homeless counts

The Midwest City Council voted June 24 to approve the city’s 2025 consolidated plan and the 2025 action plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and authorized the mayor to sign related certifications and documents for submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Council members raised questions during the item about data in the plan showing a portion of residents living in what the plan labels “substandard housing” — often defined for census purposes as lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities. Staff explained that the plan relies on U.S. Census responses, meaning the designation is a self-reported condition and does not represent a professional inspection. Staff advised the metric should be interpreted with caution.

Council members also sought information on the city’s work with homeless providers. Staff said the city partners with local homeless-service providers and typically assists homeless families through transitional housing properties; single individuals are assisted on occasion. The city does not maintain a comprehensive count like Oklahoma City’s point-in-time counts and instead relies on referrals from police and community action officers. Staff said the city has operated a transitional-housing program for about 25 years and currently operates multiple properties, with individual stays ranging from one to three years depending on need.

Council members asked staff to circulate additional program details to all council offices so members can better understand eligibility, program duration, and how the city supports residents moving from substandard or unstable housing.

The motion to approve the consolidated plan and action plan carried by voice vote.