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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006 04 24 Consent Item 406 Resolution 2006-24 COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM 406 Public Hearing Regular Consent X Informational April 24. 2006 Regular Meeting Mgr. / Dept. Authorization REQUEST: Mayor John F. Bush is requesting that the City Commission approve Resolution number 2006-24 and sending letters of endorsement to our Legislators regarding Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. PURPOSE: Information has been sent to Mayor John F. Bush from the United States Conference of Mayors requesting support for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. Mayor Bush is asking for the City Commission to support this effort via letters of Support and a Resolution. CONSIDERATIONS: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding is a very valuable resource for the City and has helped us in such areas as community development and our parks system. Recently, the United States Conference of Mayors has requested cities support Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 24, 2006 CONSENT AGENDA ITEM 406 PAGE 2 0F 2 RECOMMENDATION: The City Commission is asked to approve Resolution 2006-24 which offers our support for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding; and to approve Mayor Bush to sign the attached letters to our Legislators requesting their support for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. A TT ACHMENTS: A. Request from the United States Conference of Mayors B. Resolution 2006-24 C. Letters to our State Legislators COMMISSION ACTION: ATTACHMENT "A" Apr 13 2006 89:34:51 Via Fax 407 327 4753 Mayor Bush Page 881 of 885 1620 EYE STREET NORTHWEST WASHINGTON. D.C. 20006 TELEPHONE (202) 293-7330 FAX (202) 293-2352 CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK TO: The Mayor FROM: Tom Cochran , Executive Director SUBJECT: Grassroots Campaign In Support of CDBG Congress will soon begin to consider FY2007 appropriations. As we approach this process, we are continuing our effort to build congressioIlll support for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Our goal is to restore FY2007 formula funding for CDBG at no less than $4.3 billion. Attached are sample letters, a resolution, and an Op-Ed piece for your use and adaptation. We are requesting that you send the letter and resolution to your House and Senate members by no later than May 1. Please fax copies of your letter and resolution to Conference Assistant Executive Director Gene Lowe at (202) 293- 2352 or email to glowe@usrnayors.org. If you have any questions, call Gene at (202) 861-6710. As you know, National Community Development Week takes place this year during April 17 - 23. Cities across the nation will celebrate the accomplishments of the CDBG program. We are encouraging you to contact your House and Senate members while they are home during the Congressional Recess with the message to support CDBG. Thank you for your help, Apr 13 2006 89:35:24 Via Fax 487 327 4753 Mayor Bush Page 882 Of 885 Sample Letter for Entitlement Communities (Please email or fax; call 202-225-3121 [House] or 202-224-3121 [Senate] and ask to be connected to your Senator's or Representative's office to get fax number or email address) DO NOT MAIL Date The Honorable (first and last name here) U.S. Senate OR U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 205101 (Senate) 20515 (House) Dear Senator OR Representative (last name here): We need your help in restoring FY 2007 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY 2007 formula funding for CDBG to $2:7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY 2004. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities. counties, and states meet their unique community developnent. affordable housing, and economic development needs. In March, the Senate voted overwhelmingly for a floor amendment urging the Appropriations Committee to fund COBG at $4.3 billion and the report accompanying the House version of the FY 2007 budget resolution states that the Committee-approved bill adds $1.3 billion to the President's budgeted amount of $2.9 billion to restore funding for CDBG. In (name of city/county) County/City alone, COBG has been used to (list activities). With the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no long,~r be able to fJnd the following services and programs (list) and (enter number) number of people will no longer be assisted. Moreover. we will be forced to layoff (enter number) number of employees. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic lossto our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has been, and continues to be, a critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tool for communities. While providing essential services to citizens nationwide, COBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone. CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities. assisting over 23 million persons and households. COBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems. libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children. homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services. crime awareness, business and jot, creation. In fact, according to HUD. more than 78.000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY 2007 funding level of no less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FV05. A copy of a resolution adopted by (name of the governing body) is enclosed. Sincerely, /s/ Chief Elected or other appropriate elected official Apr 13 2006 89:36:82 Via Fax 407 327 4753 Mayor Bush Page 883 Of 885 Sample Letter for Subrecipients (Cooperating Jurisdictions and Others} (Please email or fax; call 202-225-3121 [House] or 202-224-3121 [Senate] and ask to be connected to your Senator's or Representative's office to get fax Number or email address). DO NOT MAIL Date The Honorable (first and last name here) U.S. Senate OR U.S. House of Representatives Washington, DC 20510 (Senate) 20515 (House) Dear Senator or Representative (last name here): We need your help in saving the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and restoring its funding. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1billion cut, or 25 percent. in COBG. This is on top of a 15% cut in formula funding since FY 2004. COBG has served communities for 30 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and States meet their unique community development. affordable housing. and economic development needs. The (name of entity) receives funding from (name of grantee) to (list activities). Activities such as these allow us to serve low and moderate income households and/or their neighborhoods in the following ways: (quantify such things as jobs created, public facilities constructed/rehabilitated, housing units assisted, public services provided, etc.) Many have characterized CDSG as the best federal domestic program ever enacted because of its flexibility and adaptability in meeting the needs of a diverse America. I urge you to intercede with your colleagues and restore funding in FY 2007 for this vital program at no less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. Attached is a copy of a resolution adopted by (this governing body of the jurisdiction). Should you require further assistance please contact (name and telephone number). Sincerely. Chief Elected or other appropriate elected official Apr 13 2006 89:36:38 Via Fax 407 327 4753 Mayor Bush Page 884 of 885 SAMPLE RESOLUTION SUPPORTING $4.3 BILLl0N IN FY 2007 FUNDING FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM WHEREAS, The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program was enacted, and signed into law by President Gerald Ford. as the centerpiece of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974; and WHEREAS, The CDBG program has as its primary objective "the development of viable urban communities. by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income;" and WHEREAS. The CDBG program has considerable flexibility to allow communities to carry out activities that are tailored to their unique affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization needs; and WHEREAS, Throughout its 32-year history, the CDBG program has been a partnership among the federal, state and local governments. business, and the nonprofit sector which carry out activities that improve the lives and neighborhoods of Low and moderate income families; and WHEREAS. (name of jurisdiction) with CDBG funds in the amount of ($ ) since (year it became an entitlement) has provided (quantify some of the key activities undertaken); and WHEREAS, (name of jurisdiction) will receive ($ in Fiscal Year 2006, a cut of approximately ( ) percent to continue these activities for the benefit of the low and moderate income community and WHEREAS. The President's FY 2007 budget proposals to reduce CDSG formula grants by $1 billion or 25 percent; and I WHEREAS, Should such a proposal be enacted, it would have a devastating effect on (name of jurisdiction) COBG program by eliminating (provide iJJustrative examples); NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BYTHE (BOARD OR COUNCIL) OF (name of jurisdiction) That it hereby calls on the Congress to provide a FY 2007 funding level of no less than $4.35 billion in formula funding. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the (name of chief elected official and Board or Council) designate the Week of April 17 through April 22 as "Community Development Block Grant Week" in (name of jurisdiction) in support of this valued program that has made a tremendous contribution to the viability of the housing stock, neighborhoods and infrastructure in (name of jurisdiction). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the (chief elected official and Board or Council) encourage all citizens to join together in expressing support for the Community Development Block Grant Program. Apr 13 2006 89:37:85 Via Fax 407 327 4753 Mayor Bush Page 885 Of 885 SAMPLE COBG OP.ED On February 6th of this year, President Bush released his FY 2007 budget to the Congress, and one of the nation's most vital discretionary programs - the Community Development Block Grant - was handed a 25 percent cut. The Administration proposed eliminating the program last year but was rebuffed by both republicans and democrats in Congress who fought hard to keep the program. The program has suffered a 15 percent cut in the last two years and the 25 percent cut proposed by the Administration for FY 2007 would be a certain death knell for the program in some communities. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) was en~lcted into law in 1974 by President Gerald Ford. The program provides direct federal funding to all 50 States and over 1,100 communities across the country _ rural, suburban, and urban - to fund a wide range of community development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization, affordable housing, and economic development. In the last year, communities have directed over 95 percent of the funds to the neediest in our community -Iow- and moderate-income households - for activities such as meals and services for the elderly, after school programs for children, home repair, assistance in purchasing a home, start-up funds for new businesses, and many other vital services. Activities have also been directed to lower-income neighborhoods in the community, such as road and sidewalk improvements, seW.3r and wastewater facilities, and libraries and fire stations. Communities decide through a citizen participation process which activities to fund in any given year. In our city/community of (name of city/commt.mity) we have used COBG to fund such needed activities as (list some important activities funded by CDBG) . In a hearing before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Treasury, the Judiciary, HUD and Related Agencies on March 2, Chairman of the subcommittee, Senator Christopher "Kit" Bond (R-MO) told HUD Secretary Alfonso Jackson. I am concerned over the proposed reduction to CDBG by some $1.15 billion in FY 2007. This [program] is supported by every mayor and governor in the nation and reflects the important principle of deferring to state and local decision making in how to address local housing and community development needs, instead of relying on some nameless bureaucrat in a cubical in Washington. This is an important program and I am troubled by the Administration's continuing efforts to whittle this program into almost nothing." Recently, 351 communities that receive COBG funding responded to a survey conducted by the COBG Coalition that asked them to project what they wilt be able to achieve with their FY 2006 funding as compared to the results they achieved using their FY 2004 grants. The results of the survey suggest that the almost 15 percent reduction to the program over the last two years - 5 percent in FY 2005 and 10 percent in FY 2006 - is having a substantial negative impact on these communities. These communities project that 5,843 fewer businesses will be assisted, 14,881 fewer jobs created. and 3,345 fewer jobs retained. They also project that 5,843 fewer households will be assisted in purchasing a home. Finally, the respondents project that 5,064,408 fewer lower and moderate-income persons will be served nationally through the program. Imagine if all of the 1,100 plus communities that receive COBG funding had responded to the survey? The numbers would be astounding. Even more astounding is the fact the survey results do not reflect the proposed 25 percent cut to the program. If that occurs, the program would cease to be viable in many communities. In our city/community of (name of city/community) a 25percent cut to the program would result in (provide lower examples of the impact of the cut). Just a few months ago, the Administration and Congress recognized the effectiveness of the program by delivering $11.5 billion in targeted CDBG funding to the GLilf Coast for reconstruction activities after the 2005 hurricane season. Another $5.2 billion in COBG funds to the Gulf Coast region is included in a supplemental spending bill currently being debated by Congress. We believe $4.3 billion in COSG formula funding is necessary to ensure that communities across the country can provide good jobs, safe neighborhoods, affordable housing, and public services to meet the needs of all Americans. We ask Congress to grant our request. ATTACHMENT "B " RESOLUTION NUMBER 2006-24 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING $4.3 BILLION IN FY 2007 FUNDING FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM. WHEREAS, The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program was enacted, and signed into law by President Gerald Ford, as the centerpiece of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974; and WHEREAS, The CDBG program has as its primary objective "the development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons oflow and moderate income;" and WHEREAS, The CDBG program has considerable flexibility to allow communities to carry out activities that are tailored to their unique affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization needs; and WHEREAS, Throughout its 32-year history, the CDBG program has been a highly successful partnership between the federal, state and local governments, business, and the nonprofit sectors carrying out activities that improve the lives and neighborhoods of low and moderate income families; and WHEREAS, The City of Winter Springs with CDBG funds in the amount of ($606,000) since 2001 has provided badly needed recreational facilities for the youth of low and moderate income families and ADA compliance in existing facilities serving low and moderate income residents; and. WHEREAS, The City of Winter Springs will receive ($855,000) in Fiscal Year 2006 for expansion of the City's Senior Citizen Center, including a new Therapy Pool, extending recreational services to low and moderate income seniors in our community; and WHEREAS, The President's FY07 budget proposes to reduce CDBG formula grants by $1 billion or 25 percent; and WHEREAS, The President's proposed reduction in funding will seriously curtail the City's efforts to provide services and facilities to Seniors and other low and moderate income groups in our City. City of Winter Springs Resolution 2006-23 Page 1 of 2 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS That it hereby calls on the Congress to provide a FY07 funding level of no less than $4.35 billion in formula funding. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Commission designates the Week of April 17 through April 22 as "Community Development Block Grant Week" in the City of Winter Springs in support of this valued program that has made a tremendous contribution to the viability of the housing stock, neighborhoods and infrastructure in the City of Winter Springs. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Commission encourage all citizens to join together in expressing support for the Community Development Block Grant Program. PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS APRIL, 2006. DAY OF In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused this seal to be affixed. JOHN F. BUSH, MAYOR ATTEST: CITY CLERK DATE: City of Winter Springs, Florida Resolution Number 2006-23 Page 2 of 2 ATTACHMENT "C" CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Corrine Brown 2444 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Brown: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Tom Feeney 323 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20037 Dear Representative Feeney: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Mel Martinez 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20500 Dear Senator Martinez: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable John Mica 313 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Mica: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Bill Nelson 716 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Nelson: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment RESOLUTION NUMBER 2006-24 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING $4.3 BILLION IN FY 2007 FUNDING FOR THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM. WHEREAS, The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program was enacted, and signed into law by President Gerald Ford, as the centerpiece of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974; and WHEREAS, The CDBG program has as its primary objective "the development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income;" and WHEREAS, The CDBG program has considerable flexibility to allow communities to carry out activities that are tailored to their unique affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization needs; and WHEREAS, Throughout its 32-year history, the CDBG program has been a highly successful partnership between the federal, state and local governments, business, and the nonprofit sectors carrying out activities that improve the lives and neighborhoods of low and moderate income families; and WHEREAS, The City of Winter Springs with CDBG funds in the amount of ($606,000) since 2001 has provided badly needed recreational facilities for the youth of low and moderate income families and ADA compliance in existing facilities serving low and moderate income residents; and. WHEREAS, The City of Winter Springs will receive ($855,000) in Fiscal Year 2006 for. expansion of the City's Senior Citizen Center, including a new Therapy Pool, extending recreational services to low and moderate income seniors in our community; and WHEREAS, The President's FY07 budget proposes to reduce CDBG formula grants by $1 billion or 25 percent; and WHEREAS, The President's proposed reduction in funding will seriously curtail the City's efforts to provide services and facilities to Seniors and other low and moderate income groups in our City. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS That it hereby calls on the Congress to provide a FY07 funding level of no less than $4.35 billion in formula funding. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Commission designates the Week of April 17 through April 22 as "Community Development Block Grant Week" in the City of Winter Springs in support of this valued program that has made a tremendous contribution to the viability of the housing stock, neighborhoods and infrastructure in the City of Winter Springs. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the City Commission encourage all citizens to join together in expressing support for the Community Development Block Grant Program. PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 24th DAY OF APRIL, 2006. In withness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused this seal to be affixed. F. BUSH, MAYOR ATTEST: DATE: April 24, 2006 City of Winter Springs, Florida Resolution Number 2006-24 Page 2 of 2 CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Corrine Brown 2444 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Brown: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327.4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Corrine Brown 2444 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Brown: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Tom Feeney 323 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20037 Dear Representative Feeney: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327.4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Mel Martinez 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20500 Dear Senator Martinez: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable John Mica 313 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Mica: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsft.org The Honorable Bill Nelson 716 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Nelson: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Tom Feeney 323 Cannon House Office Building Washington, DC 20037 Dear Representative Feeney: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Mel Martinez 317 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20500 Dear Senator Martinez: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable John Mica 313 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Representative Mica: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA April 24, 2006 1126 EAST STATE ROAD 434 WINTER SPRINGS. FLORIDA 32708-2799 Telephone: (407) 327-1800 Fax: (407) 327-4753 Website: www.winterspringsfl.org The Honorable Bill Nelson 716 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Dear Senator Nelson: We need your help in restoring FY07 formula funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program to no less than $4.3 billion. The Administration's FY07 budget proposes a $1 billion cut, or 25 percent, in FY07 formula funding for CDBG to $2.7 billion. This is on top of cuts totaling 15 percent since FY04. CDBG has served communities for 32 years as a resource to help cities, counties, and states meet their unique community development, affordable housing, and economic development needs. In the City of Winter Springs alone, CDBG has been used to expand and upgrade recreational facilities serving children of low and moderate income families. Additionally, it has provided restrooms, storage and ADA electronic doors for the City's Senior Citizen Center and Civic Center. Moreover, with the proposed reduction that the FY 2007 budget calls for, we will no longer be able to fund services like the Senior Citizen Center Expansion and Therapy Pool that benefit the low and moderate income community. This cut will also affect contractors and businesses which we utilize in the program, resulting in an overall economic loss in our community. Since its enactment in 1974, the program has helped provide critical affordable housing and neighborhood revitalization tools for communities. While providing essential services to citizens, nationwide, CDBG also improves local economies. According to HUD, in FY04 alone, CDBG provided funds for thousands of activities, assisting over 23 million persons and households. CDBG funds a broad spectrum of activities, including: Expanding homeownership opportunities, elimination of slums and blight, improved infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer systems, libraries, fire stations, community centers, adult day care and after school care for children, homeless facilities, employment training, transportation services, crime awareness, business and job creation. In fact, according to HUD, more than 78,000 jobs were created by CDBG in FY04 alone. We need you to fight on our behalf and ask that you support a FY07 funding level of not less than $4.3 billion in formula funding. This would fund the program at its FY04 level and restore the unwarranted cuts made to the program in FY05. A copy of a Resolution adopted by the City of Winter Springs is attached. Sincerely, Mayor John F. Bush City of Winter Springs Attachment