The Midland City Council held a public hearing on May 28 to discuss community requests for the allocation of more than $1.4 million in Community Development Block Grant Funds. Requests for the funding exceeded $2.8 million.
According to the Midland City Council's May 28 meeting agenda, at least 70% of the funds must be allocated to projects that benefit low and moderate-income people. Examples include housing rehabilitation, sidewalk and street improvements, park improvements, code enforcement, lot clearance, economic development, and public services. No action was taken on the requests.
Applicants include the city's Community Development Department, which requested $150,000 to continue the Homebuyer Assistance Program and $100,000 for a Minor Home Repair Assistance program. Casa de Amigos sought $70,000 for its SE Senior Center Nutrition program and another $60,000 for its Home Cleaning Program. Mission Center Adult Day Services asked for $41,000 for its Take Home Terrific Program, an evening meal delivery service.
The city's Parks & Recreation Department had multiple funding requests. According to the Midland City Council's May 28 meeting agenda, it requested $200,000 for a new restroom at Dunagan Park and $115,000 for the MLK Community Center and Washington Family Aquatic Center. Additionally, it sought $150,000 for architectural work for a new basketball gym and extended parking lot at the MLK gym and $70,000 for work on Washington Pool.
The West Texas Food Bank requested $81,000 for its drive-thru food distribution pantry. Thriving United would use the $180,880 it requested for a peer support specialist in its recovery resources for individuals struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and trauma. Midland Habitat for Humanity sought $500,000 for affordable housing infrastructure at Fairgrounds Road subdivision as part of a $4 million project. Midland Soup Kitchen requested $150,000 to upgrade its location at 1401 Orchard Lane.
Midland Memorial Hospital would use the $92,500 it requested for transportation assistance in its Mental Health & Wellness Department. The Salvation Army of Midland wants $200,000 for its nutrition programs. Senior Life Midland asked for $60,003 for its Share a Meal program. WeeCare would use the $88,000 it requested to provide support for home daycare providers. The Breaking Bread Ministries would use $23,000 to replace an existing floor.