DuPage County committee approves CDBG assignment so Almost Home Kids can join Lurie Children's

The DuPage County Community Development Committee Executive Committee voted July 7 to approve the assignment and assumption of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) agreement for project CD21-08 so Almost Home Kids can legally become part of Lurie Children's Hospital while preserving the county's CDBG restrictions on beneficiary use.

Julie, a DuPage County staff member, told the committee the county funded capital improvements for Almost Home Kids in 2021 and was asked to approve the assignment and assumption to allow the organization to be absorbed into Lurie Children's. "We reviewed their request, documentation, [and] financials and are bringing this recommendation forward so that we can continue same use, same service to those beneficiaries for the required length of time, which is, until 11/17/2027," Julie said.

The staff explanation emphasized that federal CDBG capital funds must continue to serve the same purpose and beneficiaries for five years after disbursement. A committee member asked what the "associated need" referenced in the staff report was; Julie answered the county places a lien on properties when it provides CDBG capital funding.

Another committee member asked whether Lurie Children's planned new facility in Downers Grove, expected about 2029, would change the county's obligation. Julie replied the assignment and assumption apply only to the Naperville property; any future funding for a new Lurie Children's building would require a separate application through the county's open application process.

The committee moved, seconded and voted in favor of the recommendation. The chair announced the motion passes.