CDBG Programs Facing Possible Cuts

Community Development Block Grant programs, used in many communities in many ways, including economic development, housing, assistance to older adults and persons with disabilities, youth programs, anti-graffiti, etc., may be facing cuts in the FY 2012 budget, either under the President's own budget request or under attacks from Representatives and Senators who consider it wasteful.

The potential loss of CDBG money comes at a time when — despite improving unemployment figures — many in the country still need to find work. Unemployment rates won't return to pre-recession levels until at least 2012 for an estimated 335 metro areas, according to a report released this week by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. And at least 32 metro areas won't see employment figures return until beyond 2025. Those conditions suggest that CDBG is needed now more than ever, local leaders argue.

In Waukesha County, the CDBG program funds activities, which can be seen in this report, which lists activities such as youth opportunities, outreach to older adults, parenting classes at Catholic Charities, homebuyer services, pregnancy support, transportation services in six communities, meal programs, and even a farmers market. 

Of course, Uncle Sam doesn't just hand out checks willy-nilly; they make sure communities plan to meet the needs in their area, and that they gather input from the residents of the community.  The current 2010-2014 Consolidated Plan  discusses this process.