LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The City of Lima held its final public hearing on federal funding that will be invested back into the community.
The city saw slight increases in its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME funding. HOME funding supports housing projects throughout the city, while CDBG funding helps pay for housing programs, infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives and assistance for local nonprofit organizations.
A total of 31 agencies and organizations applied for a portion of the $158,000 available through the CDBG program. A review committee evaluated each application and recommended funding for seven organizations, with some receiving less than the amount they requested.
The public hearing gave organizations an opportunity to address city officials and explain why they should receive funding.
“We have to score those accordingly based on a number of criteria, things that in that criteria and some of those scored higher and some scored lower and they just didn't get it and so I want to make sure that I explain to the audience and for those folks that are applying that. don't be upset about it. There will be another opportunity, but there's only so much to go around, “says Carmillia Zion, Lima’s Director of Housing and Neighborhoods.
Lima City Council will review the proposed funding allocations before taking a vote. The city's CDBG and HOME funding plan must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development by mid-August.
