02-26-2020 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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STAFF REPORT TO:Mayor Keis and Members of the City Council FROM:Chris Heineman, City Administrator Mark Kasma, P.E. DATE:February 26, 2020 RE:Resolution of Support for CDBG Funding for the Sidewalk on Allen Avenue ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: The City Council is asked to consider approval of a Resolution of Support for an application for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from HUD administered by the Ramsey County Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA). BACKGROUND: The Ramsey County Community & Economic Development Department administers the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for all cities throughout Ramsey County. The CDBG program provides Federal funds for creating affordable units in multi-family market rate properties, infrastructure and accessibility improvements, and property acquisition. Program funding may also support social service programs related to housing, including tenant counseling and employment training. CDBG funds are also used to provide first time homebuyer assistance and owner-occupied property weatherization/rehabilitation. City staff has been in communication with Community Development Specialist Mary Lou Egan from the Ramsey County Housing & Redevelopment Authority (HRA) regarding the availability of CDBG funds to assist with projects in Little Canada. One of the projects that we are seeking funding for is the proposed sidewalk extension with ADA accessible pedestrian ramps on the south side of Allen Avenue from Centerville Road to Desoto Street. The City will be submitting an application to the Ramsey County HRA for $205,585 in CDBG funds. As part of the application process, the City must pass a resolution in support of the application and funding. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council approval of the attached resolution of support.