By 1812Blockhouse
The City of Mansfield is preparing for its 2025 program year, offering significant opportunities for community and housing development through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME). With a combined estimated funding of $1.2 million and additional unused funds from previous years available for reallocation, the city invites applications through February 1 at 5:00 PM.
Interested applicants can access eligibility details, applications, and instructions for the Neighborly application portal on the City of Mansfield Community Development website. Questions can also be directed to Ann Ackerman at [email protected].
Public Meetings for Guidance and Transparency
Two public meetings will provide information about the programs, funding uses, and application process through the Neighborly portal. Both sessions will be held at the Mansfield Richland County Main Library, 43 W. 3rd St., in the Community Room:
- January 8 at 5:00 PM
- January 10 at 2:00 PM
These meetings will offer an opportunity to learn about program requirements and seek clarification from city representatives.
Understanding the CDBG and HOME Programs
The CDBG and HOME programs, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), aim to support community development and affordable housing projects, with distinct goals and eligible activities.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
The CDBG program focuses on enhancing the quality of life for low- and moderate-income individuals. Its objectives include:
- Ensuring decent housing.
- Providing a suitable living environment.
- Expanding economic opportunities.
Eligible Uses
- Housing rehabilitation.
- Infrastructure improvements, such as water, sewer, and street upgrades.
- Public facilities, including community centers.
- Economic development initiatives.
- Public services (with certain funding limits).
- Code enforcement and property acquisition.
HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)
The HOME program supports affordable housing development for low-income individuals. It provides funding for activities like:
- Building, buying, or rehabilitating affordable housing.
- Direct rental assistance to low-income families.
- Support for nonprofit housing providers.
Application and Timeline
Applications for the 2025 program year must be submitted by February 1, 2025, at 5:00 PM through the Neighborly portal. The city encourages potential applicants to attend the public meetings to ensure they understand program requirements and processes.
With over $1 million in combined funding, the CDBG and HOME programs offer vital resources to address housing needs, infrastructure improvements, and economic development in Mansfield.
