Pocatello council adopts CDBG program year 2026 plan as funding outlook tightens
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Summary
The Pocatello City Council adopted the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program year 2026 annual action plan, funding housing, public services and infrastructure with an estimated $370,600 in federal and program income; staff warned of reduced federal allocations and competition among applicants.
Pocatello City Council on Thursday adopted the city—ommunity Development Block Grant (CDBG) program year 2026 annual action plan and authorized submission to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Christine Howe, the city—DBG grants manager, told the council the plan covers the program year beginning April 1, 2026, and running through March 31, 2027, and said, "the city estimated the program year funding to be approximately $370,600," including about $25,000 in projected program income. Howe said the recommendations follow the priorities in the city—ive-year consolidated plan, emphasizing housing, public services, public infrastructure and public facilities.
Howe noted two HUD restrictions that shape allocations: public services are capped at 15% of the award and planning and administration at 20%. She told council members the advisory committee received about 15 statements of intent and reviewed eight public-service applications; the committee—ound requests exceeded available funding by roughly threefold, with public-service requests totaling more than $150,000 while available funding was just under $60,000.
On the program—unding trend, Howe said the overall CDBG program is likely to decline if Congress does not pass a budget that restores prior levels; preliminary estimates show an approximate 10% decrease overall for the program. "So we've anticipated an approximate, you know, 10% decrease," Howe said.
With no oral testimony in support or opposition during the hearing, Councilman Mangum moved to adopt the plan and authorize the mayor to sign required documents subject to legal review; Councilman Paulson seconded the motion and the council approved the plan on roll call.
The action allows staff to submit the annual action plan to HUD for final review and incorporation of any comments received. The city will return to the council for any material changes that exceed the program—udget thresholds outlined in the plan.