Oakland Park invites residents to participate in public hearing for Community Development Block Grant funding

Oakland Park, Florida – The City of Oakland Park is preparing to open the application process for the 51st Program Year (October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026) for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, with a public hearing and workshop scheduled for March 26, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. The City is seeking proposals from non-profit organizations that serve the local community. This funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Broward County Housing Finance and Community Development Division, aims to support local public service initiatives and potential capital improvement projects.

Funding Overview

A total of approximately $30,000 is available to be allocated to local non-profit or public service organizations in Oakland Park, with each organization potentially receiving up to $15,000. However, the funding availability is not guaranteed, as the City will need to review all applications and proposals before final allocations are made. This grant opportunity provides essential support for organizations dedicated to improving the lives of residents in Oakland Park through various services.

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The City of Oakland Park is also considering a City Capital Improvement Project, which would be funded through HUD’s funding for the same program year. The selected project for this year is the development of Glenwood Garden Park—a project designed to enhance public green spaces and contribute to the city’s ongoing efforts to improve local infrastructure.

Workshop and Public Hearing

A virtual workshop and public hearing will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting aims to inform residents and potential applicants about the funding process and provide an opportunity for public input. This will be a chance for the community to learn how the grant process works and to offer comments on the funding needs of the community.

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Community engagement plays a vital role in ensuring that the funding is distributed effectively. The public hearing is an opportunity for interested citizens to voice their opinions, ask questions, and suggest priorities for local development and services. The City encourages all residents to participate in this process to ensure that funding is directed where it is most needed.

Final Public Hearing and Approval

After the public hearing, the City Commission will consider the final recommendations for both the Capital Project funding and the non-profit organization funding during a City Commission meeting on April 16, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. This meeting will be held both in person and virtually, giving residents flexibility in attending and providing feedback. The Commission will review the proposals, hear from community members, and make final decisions regarding the allocation of funds.

How to Participate

Residents who wish to attend the virtual workshop and public hearing on March 26 can join via Zoom using the following meeting ID: 867 6092 0905. In addition, those interested in applying for the CDBG funding or learning more about the City Capital Improvement Project are encouraged to contact the City of Oakland Park or visit the city’s website for additional information on how to submit proposals.

For questions regarding the process or to get more details on the application requirements, citizens can reach out to the City’s community development office through email or phone. Participation in the public hearing process ensures that community members have a direct influence on how grant funding is utilized in Oakland Park.

As the city continues to grow and improve, funding through the CDBG program offers a valuable opportunity for local organizations and the broader community to come together in supporting initiatives that benefit Oakland Park’s residents. The workshop and hearing will provide essential insights into how these resources can be used to create lasting change within the community.

Conclusion

The City of Oakland Park is excited to open the doors for applications for the upcoming CDBG funding, offering critical resources to non-profits and public service organizations that contribute to the well-being of residents. With community input, the City hopes to make informed decisions that align with the needs of the people it serves. Residents are encouraged to engage in the process to ensure that Oakland Park’s growth and development continue in ways that benefit everyone.