Yuma Seeks Community Input on Housing Grant Application

June 10, 2024

The City of Yuma is actively seeking public participation as it prepares an application for a substantial housing grant. The grant, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), is旨在 addressing critical housing needs in the community.

To ensure that the application reflects the most pressing concerns and priorities of Yuma residents, the city is hosting a series of public input sessions and workshops. These sessions will provide a platform for residents to share their insights, experiences, and suggestions regarding housing issues.

Housing Needs in Yuma

The city has identified several key housing needs that the grant application will strive to address:

Affordable housing shortage: Yuma faces a significant shortage of affordable housing options for low- and moderate-income families. This shortage drives up rents and makes it difficult for many residents to find suitable and stable housing.
Homelessness: The city has witnessed a rise in homelessness in recent years. The lack of affordable housing and support services exacerbates this problem.
Aging housing stock: Many homes in Yuma are aging and in need of repairs. This can pose health and safety risks for residents and contribute to declining property values.
Lack of accessible housing: Yuma lacks adequate accessible housing options for individuals with disabilities. This can limit mobility and independence for those who need it most.

Grant Application Details

The city is applying for a competitive HUD grant that could provide up to $20 million in funding. The grant funds would be used to develop and implement a comprehensive housing plan that addresses the identified needs.

Potential uses of the grant funds include:

Construction or rehabilitation of affordable housing units: This would provide more housing options for low- and moderate-income families.
Homeless prevention and supportive services: These services would assist individuals and families at risk of homelessness.
Targeted repairs to aging housing stock: This would improve living conditions and enhance property values.
Development of accessible housing options: This would provide safe and suitable housing for individuals with disabilities.

Public Input Sessions

The City of Yuma places great importance on community input in the grant application process. Public input sessions will be held on the following dates and times:

Session 1: June 20th, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Yuma Civic Center
Session 2: June 27th, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Yuma Public Library

During these sessions, residents will have the opportunity to:

Learn about the housing needs in Yuma
Provide their insights on housing challenges
Share their ideas for addressing these challenges
Review and provide feedback on the draft grant application

Online Survey

In addition to the public input sessions, the city is conducting an online survey to gather feedback from residents who may not be able to attend the in-person events. The survey can be accessed at www.yuma.gov/housingsurvey.

Importance of Community Input

The City of Yuma is committed to creating a housing plan that truly meets the needs of its residents. Community input is essential in ensuring that the plan is tailored to the specific circumstances and priorities of the Yuma community.

By sharing their experiences, concerns, and ideas, Yuma residents can help shape the future of housing in their city. The city encourages all residents to participate in the public input process and contribute to the development of a comprehensive and effective housing plan.

Additional Information

For more information about the housing grant application and public input process, please visit www.yuma.gov/housinggrant. Residents can also contact the City of Yuma Housing Department at (928) 782-1001 or email housinggrant@yuma.gov with any questions or concerns.

Conclusion

The City of Yuma's initiative to obtain a housing grant is a significant step towards addressing critical housing needs in the community. Through public input and collaboration, the city aims to develop a comprehensive plan that will provide more affordable housing options, reduce homelessness, improve housing conditions, and create a more inclusive and equitable community for all Yuma residents.