Goldsboro council approves CDBG-CV reallocation to Bridal Multi Sports lighting over resident objections

Planning Director Miss Wood told the council that HUD requires a formal amendment whenever previously unallocated CDBG-CV funds are assigned to a new eligible activity. Staff proposed assigning $292,378.83 (remaining funds from a $427,303 2020 allocation) to a lighting and public-facility project at the Bridal Multi Sports Complex to improve trail safety and broaden recreation opportunities.

Resident Phyllis Merritt James urged the council to prioritize investments inside the city and in neighborhoods lacking grocery and basic services, calling the Bridal complex “on the outskirts” and less accessible to residents without transportation. "I wish we would have allocated it where the people in the city who really need access to expanded services and walking trails ... should have been considered," she said.

Council members and staff responded that the proposed site qualifies as an LMI (low- to moderate-income) area and that parks-and-recreation staff had identified likely benefits to children and families who attend events there. Council member comments requested increased public-facing information about how the decision was reached and a fuller summary at the next public meeting.

The council moved to approve the substantial amendment; the minutes record the vote as five affirmatives and one abstention. Staff said the public meeting on the amendment would be held the following day and the amendment must be drawn down by Sept. 10 before HUD submittal.