CUOMO ANNOUNCES $12.3 MILLION IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR THE STATE OF VERMONT

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $12.3 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in Vermont.

“These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges the state faces,” Cuomo said. “We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, and help homeless individuals become self-sufficient.”

Under the State of Vermont's 1998 Consolidated Plan, which was approved by HUD, the State of Vermont will receive $8.4 million in Community Development Block Grant funds (CDBG); $3.5 million under the HOME Investment Partnership program; and $371,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) funds for homeless programs.

The State of Vermont will use their funds to: preserve its existing housing stock; expand homeownership opportunities; address the needs of homeless individuals; encourage the start of micro enterprise and small businesses; foster expansion in high technology manufacturing; and support sustainable agricultural opportunity.

Governor Howard Dean said: “These grants will help meet the needs of Vermont cities and towns, whether it's for housing, economic development, or even disaster relief. This will go a long way toward assisting Vermonters in building stronger communities.”

Senator Patrick Leahy said: “The CDBG program is all about matching federal resources with local problems. From opening opportunities for economic development to financing affordable housing, the program has touched just about every community in Vermont.”

Senator James Jeffords said: “These grants will provide a smorgasbord of services to low income Vermonters, from assistance for homeless shelters to rehabing housing units. I strongly support Community Development Block Grants which help communities help themselves.”

Congressman Bernie Sanders said: “This support from HUD is essential to continue community revitalization efforts, and to address Vermont's vital community development needs. These funds will be utilized to supplement ongoing efforts to build much-needed affordable housing, create decent paying jobs, and to generally create a more livable community for the citizens of Vermont. I am confident that the State will use these resources to address some of our communities' most pressing needs.”

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. Local HUD staff are empowered to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.