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Benton Harbor holds public input on shrinking CDBG allocation, priorities for housing and services
Summary
City staff presented a draft five-year consolidated plan and annual action plan, noting HUD—s CDBG award has declined about 10% annually to roughly $382,893; residents urged prioritizing home rehabilitation, demolition of blighted properties, and workforce training during a 30-day public comment period before HUD submission.
CITY OF BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — City staff held a public input session May 26 to solicit comment on the draft five-year consolidated plan and the annual action plan for federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, outlining program limits, local needs and a timeline for public review.
The presenter told attendees the city—s HUD 2025 CDBG allocation was $382,893 and that the jurisdiction has seen roughly a 10% reduction in funding in recent years, leaving a smaller pool for public improvements, housing rehabilitation, economic development and public services. "The purpose of this meeting is to provide an opportunity for public input regarding the CDBG program," the presenter said.
Why it matters: The consolidated plan sets priorities that guide how the city spends limited federal funds for the next five years. With smaller annual awards, officials and residents must choose among competing needs such as demolition, home repairs for seniors, public nutrition services and workforce training.
City data cited at the meeting show population and household declines: the presenter said the city…
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