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Supervisors direct staff to submit CDBG applications prioritizing library expansion, senior meals and youth services
Summary
After a staff presentation and extensive public comment, the San Benito County Board of Supervisors directed staff to prepare three Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications focused on a library expansion, senior nutrition, and youth programming, with final applications due at the end of March.
San Benito County supervisors on the record directed staff to submit three Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications after a staff presentation on program rules and an extended public comment period highlighting needs for senior nutrition, a library expansion and youth services.
County Executive Office staff explained CDBG eligibility and limits, and Health & Social Services staff outlined proposed applications: shelter or home‑services public‑service activities (staff cited figures in the neighborhood of $300,000 for some service requests), a youth enrichment program called Dreamcatcher (presenters estimated serving roughly 120 participants per year), and a major project request to expand the county library. Staff emphasized that applicants can typically submit up to three requests across categories (public services, planning, projects) and that certain paperwork such as single‑audit certifications can affect nonprofit eligibility.
Speakers from the community urged the board to prioritize senior nutrition and meal delivery programs, noting a waiting list for Meals on Wheels (one speaker cited "47 people on the waiting list"). Library advocates and a library‑friends president said an expanded library would serve as a community hub for digital access and children’s programming. Nonprofit and shelter operators warned the board that failing to apply could jeopardize operations; one shelter operator said the facility opened in December 2017 but relies on annual operating funds.
Board members debated how to allocate the three allowable applications — weighing a multi‑million‑dollar library project against smaller service requests that serve seniors, youth and people experiencing homelessness. Members urged maximizing community outreach, involving the Community Advisory Board (CAB), and ensuring grant readiness to meet federal requirements. Staff noted the program’s application deadline and said the board would be asked to approve required resolutions at the March 31 board meeting.
The board voted to direct staff to prepare and submit three CDBG applications focused on library expansion, senior nutrition/public services and youth services (Dreamcatcher or similar). The motion passed on the record; staff will return with final application materials and resolutions to meet the grant deadline.
