Essex County accepts HUD grants totaling more than $6.8 million, extends projects delayed by federal timing

Essex County commissioners voted to accept U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grants for the 2025 program year and to grant time extensions for several existing projects.

John Suarez, director of Housing and Community Development, told the board the county prepared a consolidated 2025–2029 plan and a one‑year action plan that details proposed uses for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds. He said the county would use the federal dollars for housing rehabilitation, public facilities, homelessness assistance, public improvements and public services. The amounts presented were $5,216,482 (CDBG), $1,199,356.09 (HOME) and $464,006 (ESG).

Suarez also requested multiple extensions for projects from program years 2023 and 2024 to allow municipalities and agencies time to complete work; he said delays stemmed from HUD timing, federal cuts and previous shutdowns that postponed approvals. Commissioners asked whether any of the extensions reflected unusual circumstances; Suarez said they were routine timing issues and that some 2025 programs (resolutions 5–7) represent the current program year. The board approved the grant acceptances and extensions on a series of roll calls.

Suarez said the county will ensure municipalities and agencies complete projects within the revised schedules and will provide the board with required matrices and documentation when needed.