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Adoption of Resolution Opposing the Elimination of the CDBG Program
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Whereas, the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program was enacted and signed into law by President Gerald Ford as the centerpiece of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974; and
Whereas, the CDBG program has as its primary objective "… the development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income;" and
Whereas, the CDBG program has considerable flexibility to allow communities to carry out activities that are tailored to their unique affordable housing, public service and neighborhood revitalization needs; and
Whereas, throughout its 30-year history, the CDBG program has developed a strong partnership among the federal, state and local governments, business and the non-profit sector which carries out activities that improve the lives and neighborhoods of low and moderate income families; and
Whereas, the City of Rochester Hills receives a formula share of CDBG funds through the Oakland County, Michigan urban county CDBG program and our residents participate in the Oakland County CDBG Home Improvement and Housing Counseling programs; and
Whereas, the City of Rochester Hills uses annual CDBG funds in the amount of $176,567 to benefit our low and moderate income residents by providing a Home Chore Program, a Minor Home Repair Program, Public Service funding support; and
Whereas, President Bush has proposed the elimination of the CDBG program in his fiscal year 2006 budget; and
Whereas, should such a proposal be enacted, it would severely diminish our community's capacity to address the necessary housing and public service needs of our low and moderate income residents and to revitalize our neighborhoods, public facilities and infrastructures for their benefit.
Resolved that the City of Rochester Hills, Michigan hereby calls on the Congress to preserve the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development and provide a FY 2006 funding of at least $4.7 billion overall, with no less than $4.35 billion in formula funding.
Be it Further Resolved that copies of this resolution be conveyed to the appropriate elected and appointed officials of the Federal, State and Local governments and national organizations.