City of Stanton launches ambitious five year housing plan

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the adoption of the City of Stanton's five-year Consolidated Plan for fiscal years 2024 through 2028, alongside the fiscal year 2024 Annual Action Plan and a substantial amendment to the fiscal year 2020 plan. This marks the fifth year the city has participated in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) entitlement program, which requires annual and five-year planning submissions.

Miss Joyce, a key figure in the planning process, outlined the extensive preparation that has gone into these plans, which began in January with the assistance of consultants M and L. The city engaged the community through a series of stakeholder meetings and public forums, including a combined session with the City of Waynesboro, aimed at gathering input on the plans.

The proposed plans set forth three primary goals for the next five years:

1. **Decent Housing**: This goal focuses on preserving and increasing the availability of affordable housing, reducing discriminatory barriers, and providing supportive housing for individuals with special needs, as well as transitioning homeless families into stable housing.

2. **Suitable Living Environment**: The city aims to enhance neighborhood safety and livability, promote the integration of low and moderate-income residents, and reinvest in deteriorating neighborhoods.

3. **Economic Opportunities**: The plan seeks to create more jobs with self-sufficient wages, expand homeownership opportunities, and support development activities that foster long-term community viability and empower low and moderate-income individuals.

While these goals echo those from the previous five-year plan, community feedback indicated a continued need for these initiatives. The meeting concluded with a vote to approve both the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan, paving the way for the city to continue its commitment to community development and support for its residents.