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Council hears plan to pursue $26–27 million Neighborhood Choice funding; schedules economic development committee meeting
Summary
Council members heard that roughly $26–27 million may still be available through a Neighborhood Choice program and agreed to convene an economic development committee meeting for Jan. 13, 2026 to receive presentations and coordinate letters of support.
Council discussion on Dec. 18 centered on a Neighborhood Choice economic development opportunity that Mr. Gorman said could bring roughly $26–27 million for eligible projects if the city meets program requirements and submits letters of support on a tight January–February timeline.
“Is still in the hunt for the money. It's only going to be a maximum of 26 or 27 million,” Mr. Gorman said while describing outreach by Melody McClurg. Council member Mr. Mayo responded that earlier estimates had been higher (he referenced a $30–50 million range) and suggested the city could borrow up to $2.9 million against future Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds as local leverage to secure the award. Ms. Hoover clarified that, according to Mr. Gorman’s account, McClurg was not asking the city for direct grant funds but instead sought the city's practical support on infrastructure and letters of support.
Council agreed to hold an economic development committee meeting on Jan. 13 at 6:00 p.m. Mr. McManamon said he invited Cassandra and Vickie Maple-King to present year-end 2025 results and 2026 priorities; he encouraged presenters to provide letters in advance if possible. The meeting minutes do not record formal votes on borrowing or commitments of matching funds; the record indicates follow-up and coordination will occur in committee and with department heads.
