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Council agrees to expand city utility‑assistance to renters, using remaining CDBG funds
Summary
City treasurer reported about $15,000 in remaining CDBG utility‑assistance funds and recommended extending eligibility to renters and making the benefit 50% of a utility bill (up to $75) for up to three months. Council approved staff moving forward under HUD restrictions and asked staff to explore additional funding sources.
City treasurer Aaron told council there is roughly $15,000 left in the utility assistance allocation that must be spent by the end of December. Staff proposed expanding eligibility beyond homeowners to renters, and broadening the benefit to cover 50% of a customer's city utility bill (water, sewer, garbage) up to $75 per month for a maximum of three months (HUD rule). Aaron said the change is intended to reach more households and to apply the assistance toward the utility bill first, then fees.
Council members asked operational questions—whether service could still be shut off if a portion remained unpaid, whether beneficiaries would need further help beyond three months, and whether other funds (affordable housing or donations) could be tapped in future years. Staff said three‑month limits are HUD requirements for this allocation but they will explore other funding sources for longer‑term assistance. Council agreed to proceed with the proposed eligibility expansion for the current funds.
