Mesa residents in search of progress on housing and community services can expect avenues to open soon. According to an announcement by the City of Mesa, the start of the FY2025/2026 funding application process for Housing and Community Development programs on September 11. These programs aim to address the systemic issues of slum and blight, prioritizing projects that benefit low-and-moderate income individuals and fostering the obliteration of deteriorating influences in the community.
The City of Mesa has scheduled a kick-off meeting for agencies interested in these crucial funds, the meeting, being held at City Council Chambers located at 57 E. First Street tomorrow, September 11 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., will focus on several critical components, details include the application procedure, potential funding sources, criteria for eligibility, and the city council’s priorities as well as providing a tutorial on the ZoomGrants application software, which is part of the process.
Various federal funding opportunities are available for non-profit organizations and affordable housing developers through HUD programs; the expected amounts for FY 2025/2026 include $3,095,005 for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), $329,288 for Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), and $4,961,105 for HOME Rental as well as $912,913 for HOME Investment Partnerships dedicated to Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDO).
In addition to federal funding, Mesa also offers local support, with $690,000 earmarked from the City’s general fund and the A Better Community program, this initiative supported by public donations received through utility bill payments, not only bolsters programs and services that are directly impacting community safety services but, also strengthens those designed to encourage resident self-sufficiency so they might seize economic and social opportunities to the fullest.
The window for applications remains open until October 2, 11:59 p.m., agencies aiming to apply can find the full schedule for the application process on the City's website. Post-application, the Mesa City Council will conduct a vote on the recommended allocations for funding after a 30-day public comment period, as part of a system that ensures community engagement in defining the destiny of its own development.
