COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN NEEDS COMMITTEE TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING ON THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION AND TAKE ACTION ON AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ITEMS
April 28, 2021
County Board Supervisor Elizabeth Doyle, (608) 616-0698
County Board
Dane County’s Health and Human Needs Committee will meet again on Thursday, April 29 at 5:30pm in a virtual meeting.
The agenda includes an overview presentation from County staff on the Dane County Department of Human Services Housing Access and Affordability division, including Community Development Block Grants, COVID response update, and the Affordable Housing Development Fund.
"Dane County’s Human Services Department provides so many critical programs to the residents of Dane County. Hearing about the variety of services and programs the County provides helps inform future decisions and innovations," said County Board Supervisor Elizabeth Doyle (District 1), who is also Chair of the Health and Human Needs Committee.
Following the presentation, the Committee will hear an update on the American Rescue Plan, and take up a resolution that authorizes a contract with Dane Buy Local Foundation Inc. to administer an emergency small business grant program. Additionally, the Committee will consider resolutions to commit to provide rental assistance, housing search assistance, and case management over the next two years. The funds for these services will also come from the American Rescue Plan.
"I can attest as a small business owner to the pandemic having made business operations really tough, and the worry about making payroll and delivering on promises. The American Rescue Plan funds provide Dane County an opportunity to provide relief to help small businesses recover during this still challenging time. I look forward to our consideration of how we can best provide equitable and impactful relief," said County Board Supervisor Mike Bare (District 32).
The Committee will also be holding a public hearing on the Affordable Housing Development Fund application. Members of the public interested in attending the hearing are asked to provide public comment on the application, especially on housing needs and strategies for addressing racial disparities in housing and homelessness.
"As we continue to grow our housing fund, we need to make sure we are successful in tackling racial disparities, prioritizing housing for people experiencing homelessness, and developing permanently affordable projects," said County Board Supervisor Heidi Wegleitner (District 2).
Information to register to speak and attend the virtual meeting can be found on the top of the agenda, available here.