CUOMO ANNOUNCES $2 MILLION IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR ELMIRA, NEW YORK

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $2 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in Elmira, New York.

"These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges Elmira faces," 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 City of Elmira's 1998 Consolidated Plan for funding, which was approved by HUD, Elmira will receive $1.6 million in Community Development Block Grant funds; and $441,000 under the HOME Investment Partnership program.

Among the housing and community development efforts to be funded by the city this year are: economic development, public facilities improvement projects, housing rehabilitation and public services. The city will also work in targeted areas to provide other needed services.

The Consolidated Planning process, developed by Secretary 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.