Explanation
BACKGROUND: The Department of Finance and Management, Division of Grants Management has been awarded annual entitlement funds for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This ordinance is needed to appropriate a portion of the award for the Arts and Fitness Facilities Upgrades program managed by the Recreation and Parks Department. There will be subsequent ordinances submitted by other City departments to appropriate the remaining grant funds and authorize contracts and expenditures for various CDBG activities.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Entitlement Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
The proposed funding for the Program Year 2021 allocated by HUD includes expenditures for the expansion of existing programing and new programing to serve low to moderate income residents of Columbus. All expenditures must be consistent with the community needs, priorities, and strategies stated in the City’s 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan approved by HUD. The appropriations requested in this ordinance align with the 2021 Action Plan approved by City Council within Ord#0664-2021.
Emergency action is requested to allow the financial transaction to be posted in the City's accounting system as soon as possible. Up to date financial posting promotes accurate accounting and financial management.
FISCAL EMPACT: The CDBG program is primarily funded with entitlement awards by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. However, certain grant programs may generate revenue that must be spent on furthering CDBG programming as required by the grantor. The total amount of funding appropriated as a result of the passage of this ordinance is $2...
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