Consider and take appropriate action to approve the proposed Program Year 2026 (PY26) Action Plan projects for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs. (Judge Brown & Commissioner Gómez)
Staff Report & Agenda Item Details
Under the provisions of Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (42 USC 5301), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs to support the development of viable communities. These programs aim to provide decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities—primarily for low- and moderate-income individuals.<br data-pasted="true"><br>Since 2006, Travis County has received CDBG funds annually and began receiving HOME funds in 2024. Community engagement and public participation remain essential goals across both programs.<br><br>Each year, HUD requires grantees to prepare an Action Plan outlining the activities to be funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Programs for the upcoming program year. For Program Year 2026 (PY26), Travis County anticipates receiving approximately $1,775,869 in CDBG funds and $508,447.38 in HOME. The HOME allocation requires a 25% non-federal match. Prior figures were based on preliminary estimates available at the time of the spring needs assessment and public hearing. This Action Plan reflects the allocation amounts released by HUD recently.<br><br>The PY26 Action Plan covers the period from October 1, 2026, through September 30, 2027. Travis County’s CDBG service area includes the unincorporated areas of the county and the cities of Bee Cave, Creedmoor, Lago Vista, Lakeway, Manor, San Leanna, Sunset Valley, Webberville, and West Lake Hills.<br><br>CDBG regulations require that at least 70% of funds benefit low- and moderate-income persons, with no more than 20% allocated to Administration and Planning and no more than 15% to Public Services. HOME regulations require that at least 90% of funds be used for eligible housing activities, with up to 10% allowed for Administration and Planning.<br>During the PY26 Action Plan project proposal period, sixteen (16) new applications were submitted—twelve (12) from individual members of the public, three (3) from organizations, and one (1) from Travis County TNR. In addition, one (1) project was carried forward from the PY25 Action Plan proposal cycle, where it had been pending additional information. Because the carried-forward project is substantially similar in scope to one of the PY26 submissions, they were considered one (1) distinct project for review purposes. In total, sixteen (16) distinct project proposals were reviewed.<br> <br>Of these, two (2) infrastructure projects are eligible and recommended for funding, including the TNR Substandard Roads Program, which has been structured into multiple subprojects and may be implemented in phases. One project aligns with an existing PY25-funded effort; additional funding is recommended to support construction. Two (2) additional infrastructure projects are eligible and included in this Acti