The CED Steering Committee voted Nov. 25 to transfer $158,206.52 in unspent FY22‑23 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the completed 205213 Main Street demolition and a downtown Phase 4 project to the Gardner Community Action Committee (CAC) and the Massachusetts Veterans Outreach Center for public social services.

Assistant Director (Speaker 2) told the committee staff opened an application process and received requests from both agencies. "We've been working to reallocate the little over 158,000 we have available from the 205213 Main Street demolition project and the downtown improvement phase 4 project," she said, noting both projects finished under budget and the city obtained an extension to spend FY22‑23 funds through June 30.

The CAC requested money to cover a gap in funding for a part‑time staff position until FY25 funds arrive, purchase and install a new freezer and refrigerator, buy a cargo van to replace recurring rental costs for food pickups from the Worcester food bank, add shelving and a food‑prep table, restock perishable and nonperishable food, and support a heating assistance program. The packet also included requests for mobility aids, mattresses for transitional housing and keypad door locks from the other applicant (listed in materials as MBAC/AMPOC), plus veteran reintegration activities.

Speaker 1 said, "A $110,000 about is going directly to the CAC, while about 38,000 is going to MBAC," and noted the cargo van would expand weekly transport capacity and reduce rental spending. Committee members emphasized quick execution: staff recommended entering agreements immediately because both agencies confirmed they could expend funds promptly and understood procurement requirements.

Speaker 3 moved to accept the proposed transfer; Speaker 1 seconded. The motion passed by voice vote with no recorded opposition and the public hearing was closed. The committee recorded no roll‑call tally in the transcript; staff will execute agreements and disburse funds per CDBG rules.

Next steps: staff will draft agreements and start procurement and expenditure work to move the funds into service delivery.