Cities with a population of at least 50,000 people and urban counties with at least 200,000 residents are eligible for direct CDBG funding. Each city that receives an allocation must have a citizen participation plan. Through this plan, citizens help to identify needs, define objectives and express preferences about activities proposed in the Community Development Block Grant funding application, which as of June 1995, is contained in the annual City of Topeka HUD Consolidated Plan. At the neighborhood level, the CDBG process begins in August with the scheduling of individual neighborhood hearings. These hearing are conducted by a representative from the Housing and Neighborhood Development Department.
Information pertaining to the upcoming fiscal year is discussed.
The CDBG program year is from June 1 to May 31 of each program year. Every association has an opportunity each program year to apply for CDBG funds to finance specific projects that they selected. The CD Advisory Council and CED recommendations are reviewed by the City Council who then renders a final decision for project funding. Once the Consolidated Plan has City Council approval, it is sent to HUD for program approval. The Citizen Participation Plan in accordance with City ordinance is designed to achieve improved communication, understanding, and cooperation between citizens and city officials through a neighborhood and community structure.