The City is all set to host an important public meeting on Tuesday, January 28, to discuss the emerging needs and the future of housing and neighborhood development. This gathering, scheduled for 6 p.m. at the City’s Public Works Service Center, is crucial for anyone interested in how federal funds will be spent in the city over the next five years. An opportunity to ask questions and share feedback will be on the table for all who attend, as stated by the city's official website.
The plan at hand seeks to thoughtfully utilize federal grants provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These funds are a lifeline for implementing local strategies on affordable housing, homelessness, economic development, and even more initiatives aimed at assisting low- and moderate-income households. The upcoming session is a continuation of a dialogue kicked off last year with public meetings and consultations with service providers and community groups.
"More than 600 residents have been involved and let us know their priorities and which local needs they want to support," Housing and Neighborhood Development Director Kevin DuBose said, creating expectations for another productive conversation in the upcoming public meetings. The insights gathered from these talks are set to shape the 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, which will be drafted using collected data and public feedback, as per the City of Knoxville.
April will offer a window for residents to look over the draft Consolidated Plan and voice their perspectives, before the document's submission to HUD by May 15. Those preferring to not attend in person can still contribute via emailing [email protected] or writing to Linda Rust, City of Knoxville Housing and Neighborhood Development Department, P.O. Box 1631, Knoxville, TN 37901.
Engagement is not only welcomed but made accessible for all, with the City ensuring meaningful access to programs and services in accordance with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws, which include offering translation and other disability accommodations. Should these services be needed, they can be requested through [email protected] or by calling 865-215-3100 for language translation, and emailing [email protected] or calling 865-215-2034 for disability accommodations.
For more details on the meeting and the plan, please visit the City of Knoxville's official announcement.
