SUNBURY— The first public hearing for the Community Development Block Grant program was held at the Sunbury City Council meeting, Monday night. The city has received $272,958 for the 2016 fiscal year.
Chief of Community Development at SEDA-COG, William Seigel presented the 2016 program saying, “ The first hearing is really to talk about what kind of activities that are eligible. What the requirements of the program are, and to identify and solicit possible projects for consideration along with projects they are already aware of.”
At the meeting, the public proposed sidewalk improvements to be considered as a possible project. Under the federal guidelines, the project chosen must benefit lower to moderate residents or eliminate blighted properties with in the city.
The Chestnut street project was done through the 2015 program and Mayor David Persing says the city is invested in finishing that roadway, “Pretty much, the city is committed to finishing the Chestnut Street project. So, I’m not saying one hundred percent of the block grant money for the next term will go to Chestnut street, but most of it is going to go there, we need to get that Chestnut Street project done. “
Projects up for consideration by the board include adding funds to the Chestnut Street project, Sunbury Fire Department radio equipment and a hose washer, or continued assistance for the redevelopment authority. The projects will be decided on at the next meeting, Monday June 27. (Sarah Benek)
