Hickory council approves $461,188 CDBG plan prioritizing housing rehabilitation and neighborhood infrastructure

Annabeth Walker, the cityCommunity Development specialist, told the Hickory City Council on May 19 that the city would receive $361,188 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for its 2026 CDBG allocation and expected about $100,000 in program income, for a total program budget of $461,188.

"The City of Hickory will receive $361,188 through its CDBG allocation," Walker said as she ran through the planbudget. The proposal allocates $175,000 to a housing rehabilitation purchase program and $150,000 to public infrastructure and facility improvements in low-to-moderate-income neighborhoods. Other line items include $4,000 for small business assistance, $59,000 for public service activities, $61,200 for administration, $1,800 for fair housing outreach and education, and a $10,188 contingency.

Councilmembers asked no substantive questions and no one spoke in opposition during the public hearing. After the presentation the council moved and unanimously approved the Annual Action Plan on voice vote.

The plan, Walker said, was developed using HUDrequired templates and public input gathered at neighborhood meetings on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5 plus meetings with nonprofit providers and staff. Walker highlighted recent projects that used CDBG funding, including ongoing renovations at Hickory Optimist Park and home rehabilitation work that replaced HVAC systems, electrical wiring and windows and addressed lead paint hazards for qualifying homeowners.

With approval, staff will proceed with the budget allocations described and follow HUD reporting requirements for program delivery.