North Kentucky News

COVINGTON, Ky. – The public has three ways to provide feedback on a draft proposal outlining the investment of nearly $1.5 million in Covington neighborhoods and over $700,000 on affordable housing in Covington and seven surrounding cities.

The funds represent the anticipated annual allocation from the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs. Public input can be provided through:

- A public hearing on the draft Annual Action Plan at 6 p.m. on June 11 in the Commission chambers at 20 West Pike St.

- Written comments accepted until June 21, addressed to Federal Grants Manager Jeremy Wallace via email at jwallace@covingtonky.gov or by mail at City of Covington, 20 W. Pike St., Covington, KY 41011.

- Verbal comments and questions submitted by calling (859) 292-2147.

Details of the proposed spending are available in the draft CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan on the City’s website or in a printed copy at City Hall during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Individuals with disabilities or those requiring information in an alternative format or special services for limited English proficiency should notify Jeremy Wallace by June 4 to make necessary arrangements.

The programs aim to provide decent housing, create suitable living environments, and expand economic opportunities. "The Annual Action Plan shows how the City intends to directly invest these funds in projects and programs that improve our neighborhoods and create housing opportunities for people without a lot of income," Wallace stated. "We really want these funds to improve the quality of life of our residents."

The CDBG program is designated for various services primarily in low- and moderate-income areas, including infrastructure improvements, crime prevention, parks and recreation enhancements, code enforcement, economic development initiatives, literacy programs, and housing rehabilitation. The City anticipates receiving $1,461,212 in new funds for the upcoming year with additional carryover funds allocated to ongoing and new projects.

Covington's participation in the HOME program includes a consortium with Ludlow, Erlanger, Independence, Florence, Newport, Bellevue, and Dayton cities. The HOME budget consists of $702,234 in new funds plus carried-over amounts from previous years. In Covington, this program typically supports homeownership initiatives such as down payment assistance and housing development through partnerships with external entities.