15:54A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to outlining the city’s strategies for tackling urgent housing and community development needs. Donna King, a senior project manager with MNL Associates, presented an overview of the five-year consolidated plan for housing and community development, spanning from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2029. The plan aims to address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness and includes stakeholder consultations, housing and homeless needs assessments, and a housing market analysis to inform strategic planning. The city anticipates receiving just under $4 million over the five-year period, with projects funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and HOME programs.

25:44Dr. Tara Butler, representing community organizations, expressed concern over the soaring rent prices in the city, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighting the exorbitant costs of renting, she urged the council to explore affordable housing solutions akin to those implemented in other cities, emphasizing that no one in Trenton should face homelessness. Dr. Butler also pointed out the bureaucratic hurdles faced by those seeking housing assistance, advocating for a streamlined application process to enhance accessibility.

28:59The discussion on housing extended to the topic of abandoned properties and insufficient code enforcement. A speaker noted the abundance of uninhabitable properties in areas like Chambersburg due to a shortage of inspectors. This lack of enforcement discourages potential homebuyers, as the presence of numerous abandoned properties detracts from the appeal of the neighborhoods. The speaker suggested a land bank initiative as a possible solution, enabling long-term residents to purchase and renovate these properties, thereby promoting homeownership among those who have invested in the city.

52:25Concerns were also raised regarding the process by which city contracts are awarded, particularly the involvement of local residents. A participant inquired about the selection criteria for vendors, especially those working in senior citizen homes, and whether there is an opportunity for community involvement in future selections. Another attendee suggested that the city explore training programs to grow the local pool of contractors, potentially funded by Community Development Block Grants.

The utilization of CDBG funds was a recurring theme throughout the meeting, with residents advocating for their use in supporting nonprofit organizations and job training programs. Chester Jones, representing a nonprofit, appreciated the city’s efforts in revamping parks but highlighted the need for programs in these spaces to engage youth. The suggestion was made to direct funds towards nonprofit initiatives and job training programs to enhance local contractor participation in city projects.

01:01:16Library services in Trenton also garnered attention, with discussions on repurposing and revitalizing underutilized locations. A council member expressed interest in establishing another library, despite current funding constraints, while efforts are underway to repurpose existing sites as community centers with library resources. The need for enhanced child care and youth programs was emphasized, with discussions on the potential allocation of CDBG funds to support these initiatives.

01:09:28The city plans to gather public feedback through a survey accessible via QR code, with results informing the goals and objectives of future city initiatives. The session concluded with a call for ongoing community involvement.