Public Hearing Launches Lock Haven’s 2024 Community Development Plans; City Planner Outlines $307K Grant Allocation Process
BY Emily Wright
LOCK HAVEN—In a crucial first step towards the 2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation, the City of Lock Haven held a public hearing led by City Planner Carter Simcox before its regular bi-weekly city council meeting. The purpose of the public hearing was to allow city residents to voice their thoughts about past projects and propose future projects for funding consideration.
“Tonight’s public hearing is the first step in the process of applying for the city’s 2024 Community Development Block Grant allocation,” Simcox said. “Funds for these grants come from the federal government through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the State of Pennsylvania,” he explained. These funds are then administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED).
“The city’s 2024 allocation will be $307,115.00, with 18%, or $55,280.00, to be used for administrative costs. Tonight, we’ll discuss the regulatory requirements associated with CDBG-funded projects, discuss the obligations of applicants, and any proposed projects,” Simcox said.
Simcox explained that the CDBG program aims to help municipalities improve community viability by focusing on projects that provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and opportunities for economic development, especially for low-to-moderate-income residents. Eligible projects can range from infrastructure improvements, such as roads and sewer systems, to community centers, historic preservation, and public service initiatives.
Simcox detailed the regulatory requirements CDBG-funded projects must meet, including federal and state guidelines. Every project must qualify under one of three national objectives: benefiting low-to-moderate-income persons, eliminating slums or blight, or responding to urgent needs under a formal declaration of a disaster or emergency.
Simcox encouraged public input regarding accessibility needs for persons with impairments and any concerns over potential projects’ historical or environmental impacts. He also asked for input regarding past projects in the city as well as ongoing and future projects. City Planner Abbey Roberts highlighted the need for road paving at the Spring Street and Bellefonte Avenue intersection due to increased traffic. She also noted the need for continued funding to complete improvements at Hanna Park and ongoing water and sewer projects throughout the city.
With no other comments, questions, or input from meeting attendees, the hearing marked the initial phase of updating Lock Haven’s three-year Community Development Plan, setting the stage for the allocation of future CDBG funds.
Nonprofits and authorities may apply to the city for funding to complete eligible and fundable projects. Anyone interested in funding is encouraged to submit their application to the city’s Planning Department. Applications are due by Monday, September 2, 2024. For more information about applying for CDBG funds, interested parties can contact the Planning Department by calling 570-893-5904.
