HUD 5-Year Consolidated Plan Community Consultation, Nov 12, 2024, at 6 pm

 Consultations with community groups and organizations are required as part of the City of Springfield's 2025-2029 HUD Consolidated Plan. Residents of the Seminole Holland neighborhood are invited to join other southeast Springfield residents at this meeting at Unity Church, 2214 E Seminole St. The meeting is open to the public.

The HUD 5-Year Consolidated Plan is a strategic document required by the HUD for entitlement communities like the City of Springfield. As an entitlement community, Springfield receives direct funding from HUD through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs, which support housing, community development, and economic revitalization efforts.

The purpose of the 5-Year Consolidated Plan is to:

• Assess Community Needs: The Plan identifies Springfield's housing, homelessness, and community development needs through data analysis and public input. Priorities are focused on low- and moderate-income residents and issues such as affordable housing and homelessness.
• Set Priorities and Objectives: Based on the assessment, the Plan sets goals for the next five-years to guide the use of CDBG and HOME funds, such as increasing affordable housing, improving public infrastructure, and reducing homelessness.
• Coordinate Resources: The Plan outlines how federal funds will be used in conjunction with local resources to address community challenges, ensuring a strategic and effective use of public funds.
• Promote Public Participation: Springfield engages residents and stakeholders through public hearings and consultations to ensure the plan reflects the community’s needs and priorities.
• Track Measurable Outcomes: The Plan includes clear goals with measurable outcomes, tracked through Annual Action Plans and performance reporting (CAPER), ensuring accountability and transparency in how funds are used.

The City of Springfield's 5-Year Consolidated Plan serves as a roadmap for using CDBG and HOME funds to improve housing, public services, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents, creating a more equitable and resilient community.