Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

How do CDBGs affect Florida businesses?

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is a federally-funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support community development initiatives, including affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and economic development. In Florida, local governments use CDBG funds to incentivize economic development and attract businesses by investing in infrastructure improvements, job training, and revitalization projects that support business growth.

Florida businesses can benefit from CDBG funds in several ways. First, companies in areas targeted for development may see increased customer traffic and demand for their services due to infrastructure improvements and revitalization efforts. Second, businesses can take advantage of job training programs funded by CDBG grants, which help them access a skilled workforce. Finally, the economic incentives CDBG grants provide can help attract new businesses to Florida, spurring competition and innovation in the state’s economy.

Need help regarding economic development incentives? Schedule your consultation today with a top economic development attorney.

Which Florida and federal laws and regulations apply to CDBGs?

In Florida, the administration and allocation of CDBG funds fall under the Florida Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program, administered by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO). Under this program, eligible local governments can apply for funding to support various community development initiatives, including those aimed at economic development.

The Florida Small Cities CDBG Program follows federal regulations outlined in Title 24 of the CFR, Part 570. These regulations guide eligibility requirements, fund allocation, and reporting procedures for using CDBG funds. In addition to federal regulations, the Florida DEO has established state-specific policies and procedures for administering CDBG funds, which are in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 9B-43.

Which Florida entities qualify for CDBGs?

To qualify for the CDBG in Florida, local governments must meet specific requirements:

• Location: Local governments must be in eligible small urban or rural communities to receive CDBG funds. Funding is available for the Neighborhood Revitalization, Housing Rehabilitation, and Commercial Revitalization program areas.
• Alignment with Community Development Objectives: Projects undertaken by businesses must support community development goals, such as job creation, affordable housing, or infrastructure improvements.
• A Benefit to Low-and Moderate-Income Persons: At least 51 percent of the beneficiaries of the proposed project must be low- and moderate-income persons.
• Address an Urgent Need: The proposed project must alleviate a condition that poses a serious and immediate threat to those living in the area. The condition must have occurred within 18 months of application. In addition, the local government unit must demonstrate that it cannot finance the activity on its own and that other funding is not available.

When a set of facts is appropriate to meet the requirements of the community development block grant, there are many paths a claimant may take. We are value-based attorneys at Jimerson Birr, which means we look at each action with our clients from the point of view of costs and benefits while reducing liability. Then, based on our client’s objectives, we chart a path to seek appropriate remedies.

To determine whether your unique situation may necessitate litigation, please contact our office to set up your initial consultation.

What are the strategic benefits CDBGs for qualifying Florida entities?

• Infrastructure Improvements: CDBG funds can support infrastructure projects, such as roadways and utilities, which can enhance accessibility and attract customers to the business.
• Job Creation and Training: Businesses can use CDBG-funded workforce development programs to access a skilled workforce and foster job growth in their communities.
• Revitalization of Underdeveloped Areas: CDBG funds can help revitalize economically disadvantaged areas, creating new business opportunities and fostering local economic growth.
• Access to Affordable Housing: CDBG grants can help attract and retain a diverse workforce for local businesses by supporting affordable housing initiatives.

Please contact our office to set up your initial consultation to see what actions or defenses may be available for your unique situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can local governments in Florida apply for the Community Development Block Grant?

Florida local governments must apply through the DEO to receive a CDBG. The application process typically involves identifying eligible projects that align with community development objectives, demonstrating compliance with federal and state regulations, and showing the ability to leverage additional resources.

2. Are there any specific types of projects that are prioritized for CDBG funding in Florida?

Yes, CDBG funding in Florida prioritizes projects that address community development objectives such as affordable housing, infrastructure improvements, and job creation. Additionally, projects that foster economic growth, revitalize underdeveloped areas, and leverage public-private partnerships are more likely to receive funding.

3. Can nonprofit organizations in Florida also benefit from CDBG funding?

Nonprofit organizations can benefit from CDBG funding in Florida by partnering with eligible local governments that receive CDBG funds. The local government can allocate a portion of its CDBG funds to support nonprofit organizations’ projects if they align with the community development objectives and meet federal and state regulations.

Have more questions about an economic development-related situation?

Crucially, this overview of the community development block grant does not begin to cover all the laws implicated by this issue or the factors that may compel the application of such laws. Every case is unique, and the laws can produce different outcomes depending on the individual circumstances.

Jimerson Birr attorneys guide our clients to help make informed decisions while ensuring their rights are respected and protected. Our lawyers are highly trained and experienced in the nuances of the law, so they can accurately interpret statutes and case law and holistically prepare individuals or companies for their legal endeavors. Through this intense personal investment and advocacy, our lawyers will help resolve the issue’s complicated legal problems efficiently and effectively.

Having a Jimerson Birr attorney on your side means securing a team of seasoned, multi-dimensional, cross-functional legal professionals. Whether it is a transaction, an operational issue, a regulatory challenge, or a contested legal predicament that may require court intervention, we remain tireless advocates at every step. Being a value-added law firm means putting the client at the forefront of everything we do. We use our experience to help our clients navigate even the most complex problems and come out the other side triumphant.

If you want to understand your case, the merits of your claim or defense, potential monetary awards, or the amount of exposure you face, you should speak with a qualified Jimerson Birr lawyer. Our experienced team of attorneys is here to help. Call Jimerson Birr at (904) 389-0050 or use the contact form to schedule a consultation.