Council reviews CDBG notification process and recommends expanded outreach

Marcella Zuniga, the city’s grants administrator, summarized how the city notifies potential Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applicants: email to a stakeholder list, notices in the Madera Tribune, posts on the city website and social media, and notifications to council and the block grant commission. Zuniga said the city is an entitlement agency required to submit a five-year consolidated plan to HUD and an annual action plan; HUD limits were reviewed (administration capped at 20% of annual entitlement, public services capped at 15%, remainder eligible for public improvements).

Zuniga outlined possible improvements to increase participation from nonprofits and new applicants: maintain and extend the stakeholder distribution list (including nonprofits that hold city business licenses), add clearer Q&A materials to the online application, host community forums or one-on-one assistance for applicants, and consider extending the application period (typically open 30–45 days). She said staff offers one-on-one consultations to help applicants navigate nuanced eligibility questions and that an attachment to the application includes program descriptions and examples of eligible costs.

Councilmembers raised examples and concerns about outreach: Mayor Pro Tem (role) noted local nonprofits such as Holy Family Table need clearer guidance on eligibility and allowable uses; Zuniga said staff can advise on eligible expenditures (staff time, utilities, rent) but noted some purchases—such as equipment—are commonly ineligible for CDBG. Councilmembers suggested community workshops (including separate sessions for Spanish speakers and virtual options) and stronger outreach to newly formed nonprofits to improve equity and application quality. The item was received as an informational report; staff will return with recommendations as they work on outreach plans.