The Special City Council Meeting held on October 23, 2024, in Soledad focused on the public hearing for Resolution Number 6,166, which pertains to the submission of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for the 2024 funding cycle. The meeting aimed to discuss the details of the grant application and its potential impact on the community.

Beatriz Trujillo, the Health Unit Analyst, presented the staff report, highlighting the city's eligibility for CDBG funds under the small cities program. This year, the state of California has made $34 million available for various projects aimed at benefiting low and moderate-income individuals, addressing blight, and meeting urgent community needs. The city plans to apply for a total of $3.6 million, which includes $2.1 million for community facility improvements and $1.5 million for a homebuyer assistance program.

The homebuyer assistance program is particularly significant, as it aims to help 4 to 6 families secure affordable housing by providing gap financing for those who qualify for a primary mortgage but still face a financial shortfall. The program is designed to ensure that housing costs do not exceed 35% of a household's gross monthly income. The community center renovations will also enhance local facilities, with funding allocated for equipment, site improvements, and contractor labor.

During the public hearing, no comments were received from the public, and council members expressed their support for the grant application. Councilwoman Bananos inquired about how residents could access the homebuyer program, to which it was noted that a marketing plan would be developed to promote the program within the community. The council emphasized the importance of transparency and communication with residents regarding the grant's benefits.

The timeline for the grant submission is crucial, as the application portal opens on October 29, 2024. The council anticipates receiving notification of the funding awards by December or January, depending on the state’s timeline. The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism about the potential impact of the grant on the community's housing needs, underscoring the critical nature of affordable housing in Soledad and beyond.