2008 CDBG/ESG APPLICATION PROCESS:
The application period for 2008 funding is closed and the following instructions and applications are no longer valid.
The CDBG/ESG program conducts an annual, competitive funding process in which applicants may submit requests for funding of eligible activities. This process generally starts with the availability of applications in November. Two workshops are conducted during the month of November at which time county staff fully explain the process and the application form, answers applicant questions, and provide assistance as required. Completed applications are due the first week of December.
Applications may be submitted by cities, towns, community organizations, non-profit social service providers, service clubs, for-profit businesses, and individuals, any of which can implement an approved activity.
Staff reviews the applications for eligibility, compliance with the National Objectives, and timeliness of performance. Staff prepares a report on past performance and the applicant's proposed performance measures.
During this period, and based on the approval of the federal budget, HUD generally informs the county of the total grant it may expect to receive in July. Based on that figure staff prepares an operating budget for the program, deciding how much money is to be set aside for each of the various categories of expenditures (administration, services, physical improvements, housing, economic development and contingency).
In January, the Citizens Advisory Committee begins review of individual applications. In a series of public hearings, proponents may provide oral testimony to the CAB and answer any questions the CAB may pose. Following completion of all public testimony in March, the CAB adopts a proposed recommendation for allocation of funds. Following publication of that proposed recommendation, the CAB conducts a public hearing to gather comments, pro and con, relating to the proposed use of funds. Subsequently, the CAB reconsiders its proposed recommendation based on information provided in the public hearing and adopts a final recommendation.
The final recommendation is presented to the County Executive for his approval. Upon approval, staff prepares a One-year Action Plan outlining the proposed use of funds, changes to prior year allocations, amendments or changes to the County's 5-Year Consolidated Plan, and obtains the Executive's approval of the final document. The approved plan is submitted to HUD by the 15th of May.
Prior to the 1st of July, HUD informs the county that the plan is, or is not approved, or requires some modification. Then, on or about the 1st of July, issues a grant agreement authorizing the provision of the funds it earlier committed to provide. Staff then accomplishes environmental evaluations of each individual activity. Upon completion of the environmental process, the results are published and after federal approval, HUD issues a release to expend funds. Contracts are issued and entered into and projects may begin. Note: The environmental review of administrative and most service activities is relatively quick, allowing issuance of contracts by July, environmental review of physical projects is a much lengthier process, resulting in the delayed release of funding for those activities.
