Council approves $798,000 HOME-ARP amendment to expand tenant-based rental aid

The Port Huron City Council voted unanimously May 26 to amend its 2021 Annual Action Plan and HOME-ARP allocation to reallocate $798,000 to tenant-based rental assistance administered by Bluewater Community Action.

Jasmine, a city subject-matter expert, told the council the funds would pay one year of rental assistance for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and that Bluewater Community Action is on an existing wait list and has experience running rental-assistance programs. "The total will be $798,000 for tenant based rental assistance," she said. She added that HUD rules limit new subrecipients, so the city prioritized a proven partner and that the funds must be spent by 2030.

Council members questioned why the city shifted money from previously proposed projects. Jasmine and staff explained that proposals for a non‑congregate shelter were cost‑prohibitive (HUD requires private bathrooms for each assisted household) and that an interested nonprofit withdrew its capacity to provide supportive services, leaving rental assistance as the most effective immediate use of the federal funds.

After discussion, Council member Moser moved to adopt the amendment and Mayor Pro Tim Archabal seconded. The motion passed on a roll call vote with all members present voting yes.

The council later approved a corresponding resolution to amend the HOME-ARP agreement with Bluewater Community Action to authorize the program transfer. The city said the move is intended to deliver immediate housing stability and connect clients with wraparound case management, including referrals to Michigan Works and other services.

Next steps: staff will finalize the amended agreement with Bluewater Community Action and begin program deployment; city documents indicate the funds must be obligated and spent under HUD timeframes and reporting requirements.