City of Enid Community Development Block Grant

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in the City of Enid, Oklahoma, is a federally funded initiative administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The City of Enid utilizes these funds to support local projects that address underserved needs within the community. Eligible projects must align with CDBG National Objectives and the priorities outlined in the City’s Five-Year Consolidated Plan. The City releases funding on a competitive basis to qualifying organizations, primarily nonprofit 501(c)(3) entities. Funding is allocated for a wide range of community development activities, including public facility improvements, housing rehabilitation, economic development, mental health and substance abuse programs, and neighborhood cleanups. The purpose of the grant is to enhance the quality of life for low-income residents in Enid by addressing critical community needs. The program aims to support projects that foster decent housing, improve public infrastructure, provide essential services, and reduce poverty. Specific goals of the CDBG program include removing obstacles to meeting underserved needs, developing institutional structures, improving coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies, and evaluating and reducing lead-based paint hazards. Funding may be used for a variety of purposes, including public facility improvements such as parks, recreation centers, and youth facilities; housing and homelessness prevention initiatives; street and sidewalk enhancements; clearance, demolition, and code enforcement projects; rehabilitation of residential and commercial properties; and economic development efforts, including technical assistance and micro-enterprise support. Program administration costs are also eligible. However, the City of Enid does not provide grants to individuals or for-profit businesses. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. All funded projects must primarily benefit low-income individuals. The application process begins with a public hearing in January to gather input on community needs, followed by the release of the Request for Applications (RFA) later that month. In February, a training and technical assistance workshop is provided to assist applicants with the submission process. Applications must be submitted by February 24, 2025. In March, a second public hearing is held for applicants to present their projects. Applications are reviewed and ranked by the CDBG staff and Funding Committee in April, followed by a 30-day public comment period. Final funding decisions are made by the Mayor and Board of Commissioners in May. Applicants are required to submit a detailed proposal outlining the project scope, budget, and expected outcomes. The evaluation process considers factors such as project feasibility, alignment with community priorities, cost-effectiveness, and potential impact. Once awarded, recipients must comply with federal regulations before initiating projects, and funds may not be spent until formal authorization is received from the CDBG Coordinator.