Carson approves CDBG allocations for FY2026-27, adds Office of Samoan Affairs with spending deadline

The City Council approved a staff recommendation for the Citys Community Development Block Grant allocation for fiscal year 2026-27, approving a package that continues funding to existing public-service subrecipients and adds a fourth subrecipient with conditions.

CDBG presenter Wayne told the council Carson anticipates receiving $708,906 in CDBG funds for the upcoming program year. He summarized fund allocations and caps: the CDBG program requires 15% toward public services, a 20% cap for program administration and the remainder for physical development activities. Wayne said that translates to approximately $460,789 for the Neighborhood Pride Program, $141,007.81 for program administration, and a bit over $106,000 for public services.

Staff recommended three options. The council adopted Option 2 (the four-provider option) by motion: Fair Housing Rights Center ($36,534), Boys and Girls Club ($36,534), Venice Family Clinic ($18,267), and the Office of Samoan Affairs ($15,000), with the caveat that the Office of Samoan Affairs must meet spending benchmarks and monthly invoicing and quarterly check-ins; if funds are not expended within the agreed deadlines staff will reallocate to other applicants such as the Boys and Girls Club.

Council members emphasized the importance of the housing-rights services (noting the Fair Housing Rights Center historically serves roughly 225to 250 people) and asked staff to ensure monitoring and timely invoicing; staff confirmed contract terms would include monthly invoices and administrative check-ins and quarterly performance reviews.

Outcome: Motion carried; council approved the recommended allocation and directed staff to require monthly invoicing and to reallocate funds from the Office of Samoan Affairs if benchmarks are not met.

Vote: Motion carried (unanimous).