Question: What is the Community Development Block Grant Program?

Answer: 

The CDBG Program is a federal grant program funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The annual grant provides a flexible funding source for local governments to use for community improvement projects, such as revitalization of neighborhoods, reconstruction of streets, new sidewalks, public facilities, public service activities, affordable housing, and economic development opportunities.

Question: How does the County receive CDBG funds?

Answer:  

Lexington County is eligible under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, to automatically receive an annual CDBG allocation each year under the Grant Entitlement Program. Section 24 Part 570 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) regulates the CDBG entitlement program.

Question: How are CDBG funds being used in Lexington County?

Answer:

CDBG has a wide range of eligible activities that gives local governments the flexibility to meet their community’s needs. Some examples of eligible activities include, but are not limited to, public works projects, provision of neighborhood facilities, code enforcement, acquisition of real property, and rehabilitation of existing housing stock. Recent Lexington County CDBG projects have included public facilities improvements, infrastructure improvements, public safety projects, and public service projects. 

Question: What are some of the program requirements?

Answer:  

A majority of funds must be spent on projects that benefit low and moderate-income persons. Every project must meet one of the national objectives and must be consistent with the County’s community development goals and objectives.

Question: Who determines what projects will be funded each year?

Answer:  

Lexington County citizens are provided with opportunities at least twice a year to comment and make suggestions on CDBG-funded projects. The comments and suggestions received are reviewed and considered in making funding recommendations. County Council approves the CDBG budget and projects around May of each year. 

Question: What is the Consolidated Plan?

Answer:

The Consolidated Plan is a five-year plan that is submitted by Lexington County to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development outlining the goals and vision for community development actions to be accomplished with CDBG funds. It provides the opportunity to shape housing and community development strategies and creates an opportunity for strategic planning and citizen participation. The Consolidated Plan describes the County’s efforts to provide its citizens with decent, safe and affordable housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities. Annual goals and benchmarks for these goals are included in the Consolidated Plan.