CUOMO ANNOUNCES $1.3 MILLION IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $1.3 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in Fort Smith, Arkansas. "These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges Fort Smith faces," Cuomo said. "We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, and help homeless people become self-sufficient."

Under Fort Smith's 1998 Consolidated Plan, which was approved by HUD, the city will receive $915,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds; and $385,000 under the HOME Investment Partnership program.

Among the housing and community development efforts to be funded by the city this year are: public services; housing rehabilitation; public facilities; planning and administration; and a first-time homebuyer assistance program.

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.