Livonia staff propose CDBG consolidated plan and $89,424 Live and Go credit; some funding contingent on Smart millage

Madison Birtness, executive director of the Livonia Housing Commission and staff for housing/community development, presented the city's 2026—2030 consolidated plan and the 2026-27 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual plan and budget. Staff said the anticipated HUD entitlement for the coming year is $359,489 and estimated program income at $650,000.

Among the notable budget items staff highlighted were $150,000 proposed for improvements at Hillcrest Park and $450,000 budgeted for accessible bathrooms at the Civic Center library. Staff also listed hold-harmless contracts proposed with local service providers, including Fair Housing Center of Metropolitan Detroit and other social-service partners, to continue mental-health counseling, domestic-violence victim assistance and senior transportation programs funded through CDBG public-service allocations.

On a related item, Birtness told council the Housing Commission seeks authority to execute a 2027 agreement allowing the Live and Go transit program to receive municipal and community credits totaling $89,424 to support operations. Council Member Tashnick asked whether the credit is contingent on passage of the proposed Smart millage; Birtness confirmed the credit depends on the millage passing, saying she could not guarantee the funding if the millage fails.

Council members asked technical questions about the Bennett Library ADA bathroom bidding status and the timing of bids; staff said some projects were put out to bid in parallel to have contracts ready if funding is confirmed. Several council members indicated support for moving both items to the consent agenda for the July 27 regular meeting for final adoption and appropriation if required.