Last updated on May 3rd, 2024
We are always on the lookout for funding and advocacy opportunities to benefit our HUD clients and prospects. Following is information about a funding opportunity for community revitalization efforts and a proposed rule to reduce barriers to HUD-Assisted Housing. Here are the highlights…
FY24 Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant
On April 9, the FY24 Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant opened for applications. This funding opportunity is designed to support the development and implementation of a neighborhood revitalization strategy (a.k.a. Transformation Plan) with a focus on housing, people, and neighborhoods. The strategy/plan can then be used to guide the revitalization of assisted and/or public housing and the surrounding neighborhood to have a positive impact on families.
What’s more, grant recipients earn additional points and are given priority for future Choice Neighborhood Implementation Grants, which provide up to $50 million to implement a Transformation Plan.
The application is open to communities of all sizes. $10 million in funding is available, with a maximum grant of $500,000. About 20 communities will be selected for funding. The deadline for applications is June 10 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. For additional information, here is the notice of funding opportunity.
Proposed Rule to Reduce Barriers to HUD-Assisted Housing
On April 9, HUD posted a proposed rule – “Reducing Barriers to HUD-Assisted Housing” – and is seeking public comment by June 10.
The rule proposes that people with a criminal record cannot be automatically terminated from or denied access to HUD-assisted housing, including Housing Choice Vouchers, public housing, and multifamily housing. Instead, owners of HUD-assisted multifamily housing and public housing agencies (PHAs) would be required to use an individualized assessment that considers criminal records relevant to endangering the health and safety of residents and staff, while also giving full consideration to mitigating factors and circumstances.
As a result, PHAs and assisted housing owners would have more discretion and provide direction for fair, effective, and comprehensive admission and termination policies. Ultimately, the proposed rule would help minimize unnecessary exclusions while maintaining a healthy and safe environment.
HUD invites all members of the public and interested parties to submit views, comments, and suggestions by June 10. As per the notice of proposed rulemaking on the federal register, comments can be submitted electronically through the Federal eRulemaking Portal at http://www.regulations.gov or via mail to the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street SW, Room 10276, Washington, DC 20410-0500.
While you consider grants and proposed rules, please remember RBT CPAs is here to help with all of your accounting, tax, audit, and advisory needs. Give us a call today.
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