CUOMO ANNOUNCES $14.4 MILLION IN HUD FUNDS FOR IDAHO

Pocatello to Receive $606,000

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $14.4 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in Idaho, including $13.8 million for the State of Idaho and $606,000 for Pocatello.

"I am pleased to announce these important funds are approved for Idaho," Cuomo said. "This funding will go a long way toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges facing Idaho. HUD is moving forward with a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, help homeless people become self-sufficient, and increase homeownership in Idaho."

Under HUD's more effective Consolidated Plan for funding states, cities and localities, the State of Idaho will receive $9.2 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds; $4.1 million under the HOME Investment Partnership program; and $450,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) funds for homeless programs. In addition, Pocatello will receive $606,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.

Among the housing and community development efforts to be funded by the State of Idaho this year are: developing activities benefiting low and moderate income persons; preserving and increasing the supply of affordable rental housing; expanding homeownership; promoting independent housing options for Idaho's special needs populations; improving the quality of existing shelters; and make available additional shelter.

Pocatello plans to use their CDBG funds to provide housing, homeless assistance and public services to create better living environments for Pocatello's low- and moderate income families.

The Consolidated Planning process, developed by Cuomo when he served as HUD Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development, ensures that local residents have strong input into the creation of comprehensive, community-based housing and economic development plans. The streamlined process gives communities maximum local flexibility, while reducing burdensome regulatory requirements. The improved funding system empowers local HUD staff to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.