INTRODUCTION

The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has designated the Town of Amherst a Mini-Entitlement Community that is eligible to apply for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Each year the Town can apply to receive federal funds administered by the DHCD, which are awarded primarily to projects, programs, and services that improve the lives of Amherst's low and moderate income residents (defined as individuals or families whose annual income does not exceed 80% of the Area Median Income as determined by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - HUD), and be located in an identified neighborhood or target area.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Amherst must apply each year to DHCD to receive the funding with applications typically due in September or March. The CDBG Advisory Committee, with assistance from Town staff, oversees the public input process by holding Public Hearings and Public Meetings so that Amherst residents and Boards & Committees have an opportunity to discuss priorities and target areas. The CDBG Advisory Committee also solicits proposals from the community to help determine which projects receive funding. These proposals can be submitted by various parties, including but not limited to a single individual (i.e. a developer), a Town Board / Committee, or a non-profit organization. Those interested in making a funding request are encouraged to contact Town staff.

An RFP announcment will be made once funding is made available. 

During the application process, Amherst residents have an opportunity to discuss the following components of the Town's application to DHCD:

1. Community Priorities: A summary of community development goals that will have a positive impact in Amherst, especially low and moderate income residents. 
2. Map of Target Areas: A map that identifies areas in Town that are a priority to receive funding.
3. Project Proposals: Proposals are submitted to the CDBG Advisory Committee for review and prioritization as part of the Town's CDBG application.  

 PROJECT PROPOSAL SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

National Objective: All projects social service activities receiving CDBG funds are required to serve a majority low and moderate income population.

• Location: Non-social service activities are required to be located in a Target Area
• Detailed Budget: An itemized budget for the project including total budget and all other sources of funding.
• Feasibility: A project timeline showing that the project can be completed within 12-18 months
• Project Description: A narrative description that summarizes the project
• Project Need: A statement that clearly outlines the need for the project
• Project Impact: Description of positive impact of project on identified needs of community
• Community Involvement: Demonstrate the support of other Amherst Town Boards and Committees with responsibility over relevant public interest 
• Demonstrate consistency with the Community Priorities
• Demonstrate consistency with Amherst's Master Plan
• Provide supporting documentation as necessary