Notice is hereby given by that City of Pittston will hold a public hearing on May 5, 2021 at 4:00 P.M. The hearing will be held virtually. To join the Zoom Meeting please go to the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81187623676?pwd=dTIzcWhUR2pRWjBWaG9tZkdkRS9vUT09
Or Call:
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Meeting ID: 811 8762 3676
Passcode: 344638
If you require special accommodations, please notify Joseph Chacke, Director of the Pittston Redevelopment Authority, at least 72 hours in advance to 570-654-4601 or jchacke@pittstonrda.com or TDD users 7-1-1 PA Telecommunications Relay Center.
The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in general, the needs of the community that can be met with CDBG funding, and performance under the previously funded CDBG program years and the Three-Year Community Development Plan. The hearing will also discuss the use of the CDBG CV funds allocated to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19.
The City of Pittston expects to receive an allocation of approximately $304,500 in FY 2021 CDBG funds from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. At least 70% of the funds must be used to benefit low- and moderate-income persons. The proposed activities must benefit at least 51% low-moderate income persons in the service area to qualify as an eligible project. The application submission deadline to the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) has not yet been announced but we assume it will be early November 2021.
The following types of activities may be eligible for funding under the CDBG Program: water and sewer line replacement and improvements; housing rehabilitation; construction or improvements to community facilities such as community centers, roads, sidewalks and recreational facilities; public services; removal of architectural barriers; code enforcement; economic development; acquisition of property in support of other activities; demolition; and general administration.
If activities undertaken with grant funds would result in the displacement of families or individuals, then the City’s Anti-Displacement and Relocation Policy, would be in effect. The City would be responsible for replacing all low- and moderate-income housing units that may be demolished or converted as a result of the use of CDBG funds.
In addition, the City may also receive additional allocation(s) of CDBG-CV funding authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES) of 2020. The City of Pittston will discuss unmet needs in the City and potential uses of CDBG-CV funding to prevent, prepare for and respond to coronavirus. CDBG Program regulations apply.
All interested parties are invited to attend the public hearing and give oral testimony at the Public hearing or present written comments concerning the needs of the community, proposed CDBG activities, CDBG-CV Program, the prior use of funds, as well as the CDBG program in general. Comments may be submitted by September 30, 2021 to the Pittston Redevelopment Authority, Attention Joseph Chacke at 35 Broad St. Pittston PA or jchacke@pittston.com.
By order of the City of Pittston
Michael Lombardo