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Ceres council amends HUD plan to let CDBG funds pay for a code‑enforcement officer
Summary
After reopening the HUD annual action plan, the Ceres City Council approved using up to 50% of the city's CDBG allocation to fund a code‑enforcement officer’s salary, a move proponents said would target blight and encampment issues in low‑income neighborhoods; the motion passed 4‑1.
Councilors reopened the City’s HUD annual action plan on April 27 and voted to direct a portion of the city’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation toward code enforcement work.
Economic development manager Julian told the council the City’s CDBG allocation for FY2026–27 is $260,115 and that CDBG rules allow funding of activities that benefit low‑ and moderate‑income areas, including infrastructure and some salaries tied to eligible anti‑blight efforts.
Council discussion focused on whether the funds could be used for a code‑enforcement officer and how much to commit. Council Member Otto asked staff for the approximate full cost of a code officer; staff estimated about $125,000 with salary and benefits. After discussion council moved to approve the annual action plan with "up to 50% of the CDBG funds to be used to fund a code enforcement officer salary." The motion passed 4‑1 (Council Member Casey opposed).
Supporters said directing CDBG money to code enforcement would help the city address illegal dumping, encampments and unsafe housing in lower‑income neighborhoods without drawing on the general fund; opponents warned about tying federal dollars to recurring personnel costs and urged a forensic review of spending practices.
The county and HUD must accept the modified allocation; staff said the council’s motion provides direction to take to the consortium and to HUD. Staff will return with a program definition and implementation details, and the city will coordinate with the county on eligible activities and environmental review requirements.
Ending: The council’s direction must be incorporated in the consortium submission to HUD and any city use of those funds will be subject to federal eligibility and reporting rules.
