Township schedules CDBG hearing

By Kevin Elliott

The Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 8, to discuss the use of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds available to the township through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The CDBG program provides funds for housing, public facilities and public service activities that benefit low-income households and people with special needs. Oakland County receives CDBG funding as an urban county, with participating communities required to join.

Christine Tvaroha, senior services director, said Bloomfield Township has worked with Oakland County on the minor home repair program since 2009, and Meals on Wheels since 2014. Since 2009, CDBG funds have totaled nearly $674,000.

Under the CDBG guidelines, communities may spend up to 30 percent of their funds on public service activities, with at least $3,500 per activity, and no more than four activities.

Tvaroah said the estimated allocation to the township for 2022 is $51,875. The board will hold a public hearing for proposed uses during its regular meeting at Township Hall.

“The purpose of the public hearing is to review community development and housing needs, inform citizens of the availability of funds and eligible uses of CDBG funds, and receive comments on proposed activities, particularly from low- and moderate-income persons,” she explained.