CUOMO ANNOUNCES $3.6 MILLION IN HUD FUNDS FOR SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $3.6 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in San Luis Obispo County.

Cuomo announced the funds - more than $281 million in HUD grants for 55 Southern California cities and counties - during a visit to San Bernardino as a guest of U.S. Representatives George Brown and Jerry Lewis. Congressman Lewis is the chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee, which funds these programs.

"These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges San Luis Obispo County communities face," Cuomo said. "We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, help homeless individuals become and remain self-sufficient, and increase homeownership."

Under the 1998 Consolidated Plans for community development funding, which were approved by HUD, assistance received by San Luis Obispo County is as follows:

• $2.5 million in Community Development Block Grant funds.

• $1 million in HOME Investment Partnership program.

• $100,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant funds.

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 funding process gives communities maximum local flexibility, while reducing burdensome regulatory requirements. Local HUD staff are empowered to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.