A point of discussion was the approval of the 2026 CDBG budget. The board was informed about the city’s expected budget of approximately $465,000 for the upcoming year, with additional carryover funds and program income from previous years pushing the total to over $1 million. The budget allocation will target various initiatives, including homeowner rehabilitation, acquisition and demolition of blighted properties, and public services. The board discussed the importance of programs like the Homeowner Rehab Loan Program and partnerships with organizations like Homes Within Reach, which help maintain long-term affordability through land trusts. The board also plans to increase the budget for public services to better address community needs.

Another matter was the advancement of the St. Mark’s affordable housing project. The board is applying for a grant to fund public infrastructure improvements such as cul-de-sac and storm sewer connections, which are important for the development. This initiative aims to fill the financing gap for the project, with previous funding primarily covering the structures themselves.

Additionally, the board announced progress in resolving issues related to a cell tower on the St. Mark’s site, indicating that they are on track to close by late March, thus moving the project forward. This development is anticipated to provide much-needed affordable housing options in Bloomington.