We talked about this last Friday - Pierce County and Tacoma/Lakewood are recipients of federal funds from the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  HUD requires a specific five year plan called a Consolidated Plan along with a one year Annual Action plan and annual reports for the use of Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, and HOME Investment Partnership funds.

The cities of Tacoma and Lakewood join together  in one single application.  The Pierce County Consortium includes 18 cities and towns and unincorporated Pierce County and is a separate recipient.  This means two opportunities to comment but watch the deadlines:

Tacoma/Lakewood - April 30

Note:  the City of Tacoma will hold its public hearing April 16 at City Council

Pierce County - May 1

There is a process but you do not have to be a housing policy wonk or a housing planner to comment.  You do not have to represent an organization or local government to comment.  You can do this in your individual capacity.  Sometimes there is NO public comment!  Don't miss an opportunity to say how you think these important federal monies should be used.  

Here are some ideas - review the Annual Action Plan and see if you agree.  If so, say so.  If not, state what changes you think should be made.  For instance, I think there should be low-barriers shelters across the county and there should be safe parking places for women and for families with children.  

You get the drift - you can simply put down the type of housing that your clients need.  The staff will decide if your recommendations are eligible under these particular funds.

I'm attaching the Consolidated Plan basic information from the City of Tacoma and the links from Pierce County.  

Maureen
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