Special Projects Division
GENERAL INFORMATION
Community Development
110 South Pine Street, Room 107
Santa Maria, CA 93458
Phone: (805) 925-0951, ext. 2118 Fax: (805) 928-0535
Staff:
Rosie Rojo, Community Programs Manager
Alicia Vela, Grants Specialist
Deisy Ruiz, Staff Aide
Responsibilities of Division
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Special Projects Division administers the Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, the HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program, and other related Federal and State grant programs. The Division implements many special projects and programs related to affordable housing, public services, public and non-profit facilities, economic development, and downtown revitalization. The Division provides support to the City departments in applying for grants to secure outside funding sources.
SUBPROGRAMS AND THEIR OBJECTIVES
CDBG Program
Administer the CDBG Program, in close coordination with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), including the supervision of a variety of programs and projects designed to build a stable economic environment, maintain suitable living conditions, and expand the supply of decent, affordable housing.
Public Services
Assist approximately 15 to 20 non-profit agencies annually in providing public services that prevent homelessness and address the critical emergency, housing, health care, and service needs of persons and families living in poverty, elderly, frail elderly, persons with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities, and persons living with diseases. Support and develop social services that prevent crime and provide positive educational and youth development opportunities needed by at-risk youth and families to achieve success.
Affordable Housing
Develop and support programs and projects to increase the supply of affordable housing for low- to moderate-income households, and maintain and upgrade existing low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. Administer a residential rehabilitation (minor home repair) program to preserve the affordable housing stock in the City. Administer the Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program to facilitate permanent housing for low-income households.
Revitalize Existing Neighborhoods
Revitalize existing neighborhoods in low- to moderate-income areas by increasing services such as supportive social services, and upgrading public infrastructure, such as street lighting, improved sidewalks, parks, and recreational public facilities.
Public and Non-Profit Facilities Program
Ensure funding to expand and upgrade City-owned public and non-profit facilities and improvements that benefit low- and moderate-income persons and neighborhoods in the community.
Grant Coordination
Seek and secure new grants and outside funding sources for the City to reduce financial burdens on General Fund departments. Also, provide technical assistance to City departments in grant writing and management.