Federal Grants

Community Development Agency



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 Para leer esta página en español desplácese hacia arriba y haga clic en el enlace que dice "Select Language" (seleccionar idioma) y elija "Spanish" (español).

 
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The Federal Grants Program provides Marin County organizations resources to address community needs. The Program distributes funds to support low- and moderate-income households in Marin County. Funds support affordable housing projects, community facility improvements, and a variety of services. The Countywide Priority Setting Committee (PSC) oversees the Federal Grants Program. The PSC includes County community members and local elected officials.
 

Updates and Announcements

The Addendum with responses to questions from the Request for Proposal for an experienced community development firm or individual to assist the Housing and Federal Grants Division in preparing its next 5‐year Consolidated Plan (FY2025‐2029) and the Annual Action Plan (FY2025‐2026) is NOW POSTED. Please select the "Consolidated Plan" tab below for more information. 

Regular office hours with County staff are now offered the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month to help answer your questions. Please select the "Funding Applications and Process" tab below for information on how to join.

 

Consolidated Plan

2025-29 Consolidated Plan

The County of Marin is planning to kick-off the 2025-29 Consolidated Plan process in June 2024. On Tuesday, March 26th the Marin County Community Development Agency issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for experienced community development firms or individuals to assist the Housing and Federal Grants Division in preparing its next 5‐year Consolidated Plan (FY2025‐2029) and the Annual Action Plan (FY2025‐2026). 

Request for Proposal

*NEW - Addendum - Response to Questions

Proposers may submit written questions regarding this RFP. The proposer’s questions must be emailed and received by April 8, 2024 no later than 4:00 p.m. PT. All questions shall be submitted via email to the Marin County Community Development Agency’s Housing and Federal Grants staff. Phone calls and faxed questions will not be accepted.

An RFP addendum, including answers to all written questions will be posted on this webpage and the County of Marin Contracting Opportunities webpage on April 12, 2024 by the end of the business day. It is the responsibility of all interested proposers to access the website for this information.

Proposal packages must be received by email May 3, 2024, 5:00 p.m. PT.

Marin County 2020-24 Consolidated Plan (English)
Due to limited available translation services, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

Background on Consolidated Planning for Federal Funding Allocations

The Consolidated Plan (ConPlan) is a 5-year strategy and budgeting document mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It describes the community development needs of the County’s low- and moderate-income residents and lays out priorities and strategies for meeting those needs. HUD funds Marin County and other jurisdictions through block grant programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program. The ConPlan provides a framework for identifying funding priorities and eligible programs to address affordable housing, community development needs, and public services for extremely low- to moderate-income families, persons with disabilities, seniors, and youth. 

Every five years, the County submits a new ConPlan to HUD. In addition, every year, the County also submits 1) an Annual Action Plan (AAP) that summarizes how federal funds will be used to address specific goals, and 2) a Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) that provides metrics on each year's achievements. Ultimately, this process of setting goals and reporting on progress fosters community partnerships and facilitates an ongoing community dialogue.

Public Review Process for 2020-24 Consolidated Plan

Over the course of a six-month period in 2020, the County of Marin’s Housing & Federal Grants division conducted a community outreach campaign to gather feedback on the 2020-24 ConPlan, the current five-year plan for nearly $2 million in annual grant funding from HUD. Marin County made the draft 2020-24 ConPlan available for public review in April 2020. Subsequently, the County submitted the ConPlan to HUD for approval. 

The ConPlan process was conducted in partnership with the Marin County Department of Health & Human Services. This collaboration provided a unique opportunity to reach a broader audience and reduce the burden on low-income and underrepresented communities for participating in multiple planning processes. The outreach process engaged communities in multiple ways: through community meetings; a community survey (available online and hard copy in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese); a service provider survey; presentations at community and nonprofit partner events; and interviews with local governments and agencies. Read a summary of findings from the community outreach campaign. 

Countywide Priority Setting Committee and Upcoming Meetings

Committee Meetings

The County of Marin invites community members to attend and participate in all the Countywide Priority Setting Committee meetings. Currently, all committee are held virtually.

The meeting schedule for Spring 2024 is now available. To view meetings from prior years, select the "Prior Year Meetings and Reports" tab below.

General Notice for 2024 Spring Meetings: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt   

Priority Setting Committee – Application Review Workshop
    Date and Time: Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
    Location: Virtual via Zoom - Registration required   
    Purpose: Workshop to review all funding applications
    Agenda: AgendaEspañolTiếng Việt   
    Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt   

Novato City Council Meeting
    Date and Time: Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
    Location: In person at Novato City Council Chambers: 901 Sherman Ave, Novato
    Purpose: Hearing to review and approve funding recommendations for projects serving Novato.

San Rafael City Council Meeting
    Date and Time: Monday, May 6, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ***UPDATED TIME***
    Location: In person at San Rafael City Council Chambers: 1400 Fifth Ave, San Rafael
    Purpose: Hearing to review and approve funding recommendations for projects serving San Rafael.

Priority Setting Committee – Funding Allocation Hearing
    Date and Time: Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
    Location:
Virtual via Zoom - Registration required   
    Purpose: Hearing to review and approve all funding recommendations.

Marin County Board of Supervisors Public Hearing
    Date and Time: Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. or thereafter
    Location:
Hybrid - Virtual via Zoom, marincounty.gov/bos or in person at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 330, San Rafael
    Purpose: Hearing to issue final approval of funding recommendations.
     

Committee Roster

The committee is comprised of representatives from the Board of Supervisors, City/Town Councils, and community members from the protected classes.

Name

Affiliation

Cathy Cortez

At-Large Community Representative

Vacant

Lower Ross Community Representative

Jaime Yan Faurot

Novato Community Representative

Darlene Goins

San Rafael Community Representative

Ida Green

Southern Marin Community Representative

PJ Feffer

Upper Ross Community Representative

Jennifer Kerrigan

West Marin Community Representative

Peter Mark

City of Belvedere Councilmember

Kevin Carroll

City of Larkspur Councilmember

Stephen Burke

City of Mill Valley Councilmember

Mark Milberg

City of Novato Councilmember

Rachel Kertz

City of San Rafael Councilmember

Melissa Blaustein 

City of Sausalito Councilmember

Eric Lucan

County of Marin Board of Supervisors

Rosa Thomas

Town of Corte Madera Councilmember

Barbara Coler

Town of Fairfax Councilmember

Vacant

Town of San Anselmo Councilmember

Holli Their

Town of Tiburon Councilmember

Funding Applications and Process

Applications Received for 2024-25 Funding Cycle

The Housing and Federal Grants Division received ­­35 applications for the 2024-25 application cycle for Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and State Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) matched by local Marin County Affordable Housing Fund (HTF) funds.

Here are the funding requests submitted for the 2024-25 application cycle:

List of 2024-25 Applications Received by Type

Regular Office Hours

If you are a current Federal Grant recipient or potential applicant, office hours are available to help answer your questions. Join County staff on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month from 1:00-2:00 PST.

Join by computer or mobile device

Join by phone

  • Dial (669) 444-9171
  • Meeting ID: 822 5057 4342 #
  • Attendee ID: #
  • Password: 324253 #

Application Process

Notice of Funding Application

Applications for 2024-25 for funding for affordable housing, community infrastructure, and public services projects opened on Monday, January 22nd, 2024 and were accepted until Friday, February 16th, 2024 at 5:00 P.M. Funding sources include:

  • Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG),
  • Federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and
  • State Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA) matched by local Marin County Affordable Housing Fund (HTF)

Application Materials

Housing Application Content:

Application Prep Tool
Pro Forma Budget  
Notice of Funding Available and Application Guidelines     

Public Services and Community Infrastructure/Capital Improvements Application Content:

Application Prep Tool   
Project Budget  
Notice of Funding Available and Application Guidelines  

Application information sessions were held via Zoom on Wednesday, January 24th, 2024 for potential applicants to learn more about the application process and types of eligible projects. Additionally, staff held Office Hours on Thursday, February 1, 8, & 15th, 2024 via Zoom and were available throughout the application process to consult with organizations one on one. 

Information Sessions Materials

Wednesday, January 24th, 2024 via Zoom.
11:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. - Community Infrastructure (Capital) and Public Service Projects
    
Recording of Information Session     
     Materials  

1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. - Housing Projects
    
Recording of Information Session    
     Materials   

Background Information

The Marin County Community Development Agency awards grant funds only to eligible nonprofits and local government agencies. Private individuals and families are not eligible for direct funding.

Each grant cycle, Marin County receives roughly $1.5 million in CDBG funds and $800,000 in HOME funds. After subtracting administrative expenses, the CDBG funds are divided so that at least 40% funds housing, no more than 15% funds public service projects, and the remaining funds can be used for either housing or capital improvements for community infrastructure.

Together, the applications for CDBG funding typically request more than three times the amount of funds available. Because of the competition for limited funds, many applicants cannot be funded and many others are funded at less than the amounts they requested. Competition is most intense in the Public Services category.

Each February, Federal Grants staff review applications for the upcoming grant year, request additional information as needed, and make recommendations about which projects should be funded.

Recommendations go before the Countywide Priority Setting Committee, Novato City Council, and San Rafael City Council for review and adoption. The San Rafael and the Novato City Councils serve as the Local Area Committees for the their Planning Areas. The Countywide Priority Setting Committee consists of one County Supervisor, a representative from each City and Town Council, seven (7) community members representing six (6) regions spanning Marin, and an at-large community member representing the County.

In May, the Board of Supervisors typically hold a final public hearing on all the recommendations provided by staff and the Countywide Priority Setting Committee. In May, the County sends its annual list of funded projects to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Plan (CAPER)

*Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report*

Public for Public Comment Period: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt   

The draft 2022-23 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)'s required comment period opened Monday, September 11, 2023 and closed at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 26.  

2022 Draft Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report

Translation services available upon request. Please contact Housing and Federal Grants Division to receive materials in Español and Tiếng Việt.

Background

The Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) is a report that details the housing and non-housing needs of extremely low, very low, low, and moderate-income persons in the County, and sets forth priorities and strategies for addressing these needs. It provides metrics on each year's achievements to be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 

HOME-ARP Funding

HOME-ARP Allocation Plan

Final Plan

Marin County submitted its final HOME-ARP Allocation Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on February 27, 2023. Please email any comments to Federal Grants staff by no later than 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Translation of the final plan into other languages is available upon request.

PDF Notice: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Draft Plan

The draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was available for public review and comment between November 15 and December 16, 2022. To access the draft HOME-ARP Allocation Plan materials in Español, Tiếng Việt, or other language, Google translate versions are available.

PDF Notice: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Background on HOME-ARP: A New Funding Source to Benefit the Most Vulnerable Marin County Residents

HOME-ARP funds arose from the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act, which became law on March 11, 2021. The ARP appropriated $5 billion to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program to provide housing, services, and shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable populations. The federal government allocated $2,902,549 of this HOME-ARP funding to the County of Marin. The grant funds are available for expenditure through September 2030. HOME-ARP funds can be used to support Affordable Rental Housing, Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Supportive Services, and/or Non-Congregate Shelter. HOME-ARP funds must be used to primarily benefit these “qualifying populations:”

  • Homeless
  • At Risk of Homelessness
  • Fleeing/Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Stalking, or Human Trafficking
  • Other Populations where assistance would:
    • Prevent the family’s homelessness; or
    • Serve those with the Greatest Risk of Housing Instability

The County must amend its 2021 Annual Action Plan to reflect the HOME-ARP allocation. The Annual Action Plan establishes priorities for grant funding and is a component part of the County’s 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan, a 5-year strategy and budgeting document mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It describes the community development needs of the County’s low- and moderate-income residents and lays out priorities and strategies for meeting those needs. The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan presents a revised budget that incorporates the use of HOME-ARP funds and is consistent with the Consolidated Plan priorities. For more information on the Consolidated Plan, please refer to the "Consolidated Plan 2020-2024" dropdown below.

Public Hearing

The HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was approved in substantially the form provided at the County Board of Supervisors hearing on January 10, 2023.

Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

You may find additional information on the Board of Supervisors meeting webpage.

Next Steps: Fund Distribution

Marin County's HOME-ARP funding allocation was made available for applications from affordable housing developers on February 8, 2023. The application period closes on March 17, 2023. HOME-ARP will be included as part of a combined Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) that leverages several different local, state, and federal funding sources for housing. Please refer to the "Funding Applications and Process" tab above for more information. 

Reporting Forms and Grant Compliance

Reports Required From Funded Projects

All funding recipients who have executed contracts will be required to submit the following documents for approval:

  • Semi-annual Reports
  • Affirmative Marketing Plan

Capital and Housing projects with executed contracts have additional reporting requirements including:

  • Contractor/Subcontractor contracts - submission for approval prior to going under contract. 
  • Davis-Bacon Prevailing Wage compliance - applies to all Capital projects and some Housing projects meeting certain thresholds (CDBG - more than 7 units, HOME - more than 11 units).
  • Minority Owned Business and Woman Owned Business engagement - report using HUD Form 2516.
  • Section 3 reporting for projects of $200,000 or more. 

Reports must be submitted with the required level of detail in a timely manner. Failure to comply with reporting requirements may result in the discontinuation of funding.

Report Forms

Semi-annual Reports

These reports are due January 31st (covering July 1st - December 31st) & July 31st (covering January 1st - June 30th) unless otherwise indicated by staff.

Affirmative Marketing Plans

There are four (4) Affirmative Marketing Plan templates to choose from. Please select the template that matches your project type and service area. If you have an approved Affirmative Marketing Plan on file from a previous funding cycle, complete the Affirmative Marketing Plan - Annual Evaluation. Contact staff if you have questions.

Davis-Bacon

For subject projects, Davis-Bacon documentation is required before a project places contractors under contract and throughout the construction process. For more information regarding Davis-Bacon requirements review the Davis-Bacon Compliance Steps document and HUD's Davis-Bacon Basics presentation. There are additional resource documents under the "Resources" section below.

Contact staff to determine if your project is subject to Davis Bacon compliance.

Forms
Resources

Minority Owned Business and Woman Owned Business report HUD Form 2516

Form 2516 is required for all Capital and Housing projects and is due July 31st (covering the 12 months of July 1st - June 30th) unless otherwise indicated by staff.

HUD Section 3 Data Collection Form

The Section 3 Form is required for any Capital or Housing project that is funded with $200,000 or more.

Marin County Income Limits

 

COVID-19 Pandemic Response

*The Draft Amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan has been submitted to HUD and is awaiting approval*

CARES Act and Amendment to the 2019 Annual Action Plan

In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was signed into law on March 27, 2020 by the Federal Government. The CARES Act appropriates $5 billion in additional CDBG Program funding (CDBG-CV) to state and local governments. Marin County will receive $938,065 in CDBG-CV funding that will be administered through the Housing and Federal Grants Division.

All activities recommended for funding with CDBG-CV funds are consistent with the County's priorities as reported in the 2015-2019 Consolidated Plan and have been prioritized through the County's ongoing community needs assessments conducted throughout the emergency. In order to distribute CDBG-CV funds during the 2019-20 fiscal year the County is required to amend the 2019 Annual Action Plan, which serves as the fiscal year budget for the use of Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. The amendment process is designed to communicate substantial changes in funding and allocation, and to address public comments received during public hearings and the comment period.

Amendment: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Federal funding for the CDBG-CV program will be voted by the Marin County Board of Supervisors for final approval at the meeting on May 12, 2020. All interested parties are encouraged to participate virtually.

The 14-day comment period for the draft amendment opened on Wednesday, April 29th. Please submit comments by email to the Housing and Federal Grants Division. Hard copy comments will be accepted at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308, San Rafael, CA 94903. However, due to COVID-19 response, staff will not be checking this regularly.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Notices

Golden Gate Village Section 106 Projects

Analysis of Impediments 2020

2020 Marin County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI)

The Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI) identifies barriers to fair housing choice by:

  • Assessing conditions, both public and private, affecting fair housing choice for all protected classes
  • Reviewing the jurisdiction's laws, regulations, and administrative policies, procedures and practices
  • Assessing how those laws, etc. affect the location, availability and accessibility of housing
  • Assessing the availability of affordable, accessible housing

The 2020 Marin County AI identifies four (4) key impediments to fair housing choice in the county:

  1. Community opposition to affordable housing
  2. The cost of developing affordable housing
  3. Lack of affordable housing sites
  4. Lack of opportunities for home ownership by people of color and on-going concerns of gentrification

On February 11th, 2020, the AI was presented to the Marin County Board of Supervisors for final approval.

2020 Marin County AI: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Presentation

Affirmative Marketing

Understanding Affirmative Marketing

What is Affirmative Marketing (AM) and why do we do it?

To answer that question we first must understand the word affirmative. In this context it means to promote fair housing and to empower and give special assistance to groups that have historically been disadvantaged. It is simply not enough to not discriminate; we must also take assertive steps aimed at reversing historical trends and discriminatory patterns.

The County is committed to affirmatively furthering fair housing in all aspects of its operations. The AM and Affirmative Marketing Plans (AMP) are one part of that effort. To this end, all subrecipients of Community Development Block Grants and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds through the County of Marin are required to submit an AMP.  The purpose of the AMP requirement is to promote a condition in which individuals of similar income levels in the same housing market area have available to them a like range of choices in housing and services regardless of their race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability or familial status.

Historically, traditional residential marketing practices have conditioned people to view certain neighborhoods or groups as undesirable or that certain locations are not available to all due to past discrimination or other factors. Through an affirmative marketing plan, a housing and service providers indicate what special efforts they will take to reach out to potential tenants and clients who might not normally seek benefit from the project of program due to this mindset. This requires that the provider study the market area, learn the target population, and design methods to reach out to the target population. Affirmative marketing does not limit choices; it expands choices by actively seeking to reverse the patterns of the past and truly provide for an open and fair market where the individual is free to live where they choose.

Affirmative marketing does not include specific goals or quotas. However, quantitative data and analysis are essential to planning and monitoring affirmative marketing program effectiveness. The County is committed to partnering with all housing and service providers to develop, implement, and annually review and assess their AMP.

Affirmative Marketing Plan Templates

Affirmative Marketing Plan for Housing Providers

Affirmative Marketing Plan For Public Service and Capital Projects Serving Novato

Affirmative Marketing Plan For Public Service and Capital Projects Serving San Rafael

Affirmative Marketing Plan For Public Service and Capital Projects Serving County Other and Countywide

Other Marin County Housing Resources

Housing Information

There are many sources of assistance for people who need affordable housing in Marin County. The programs include public housing, apartments for seniors and people with disabilities, nonprofit rental housing, shared rental housing, rental assistance you can use in a private apartment, emergency rent or security deposit assistance, and even affordable homeownership. Many programs are small, have long waiting lists, or have special eligibility requirements, but it's a good idea to apply and get yourself on the waiting list. Since there is not enough affordable housing available to meet the need, getting into affordable housing takes time.

Some programs give preference to special categories of people. Some of the categories that qualify for special assistance in some programs are:

  • people with disabilities, including mental illness
  • people with substance abuse problems
  • seniors
  • single parents
  • people who have lost their housing through no fault of their own
  • homeless people
  • people living in substandard housing, a homeless shelter, or transitional housing
  • people paying more than half their income for rent and utilities
  • victims of domestic violence, and
  • people living with HIV or AIDS

For further information, download the Housing Resource Guide or call the Marin Housing Authority at (415) 491-2525, TDD (800) 735-2929. Tell them if you fall into any of the special categories. The Assist line can send you a list of affordable housing developments in Marin. Call any affordable project in which you are interested at the end of the month to see if the waiting list is open. Finding housing will take time! You will need to keep making phone calls to get on waiting lists. This won't be fun, but it's worth a try. It will take time to find the right program for you, and you may have to wait until there is a vacancy. Be patient, be flexible, and be persistent.

For information on below-market-rate homeownership, please call the Marin Housing Authority at (415) 491-2550.

Fair Housing Protection

Housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, the presence of children in your family, age, sexual orientation, or disability is illegal. If you think that you may be a victim of housing discrimination, please call Fair Housing of Marin at (415) 457-5025. Fair Housing of Marin is a nonprofit agency which processes fair housing complaints. Their services include counseling, investigation, mediation, and referral to enforcement agencies.

Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program

The Residential Rehabilitation Loan Program makes low-interest housing improvement loans of up to $25,000 to qualified low-income homeowners for correction of substandard housing conditions and elimination of health and safety hazards. Examples of eligible work include:

  • foundation, termite damage, and dry rot repairs
  • plumbing, electrical, and heating system repairs
  • roof work
  • door and window repair
  • stairs, deck, and railing repair
  • disaster-related repairs
  • energy conservation measures
  • remodeling for wheelchair accessibility

Loans may be made for the rehabilitation of owner-occupied single-family houses or for approved "second units" within these homes. Loans are also available for houseboats in approved berths. The program operates throughout Marin County. For further information, please call the Marin Housing Authority at (415) 491-2550.

Prior Year Meetings and Reports

Fiscal Year 2023-24 

Committee Meetings

The County of Marin invites community members to attend and participate in all the Countywide Priority Setting Committee meetings. Currently, all committee are held virtually.

The meeting schedule for Fall 2023 is now available. To view meetings from prior years, select the "Prior Year Meetings and Reports" tab below.

General Notice for 2023 Fall Meetings: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt   

Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
     Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
          Location: Virtual via Zoom -
Registration is required  
    
Meeting Materials:
      Agenda  
      Staff Report 
  
      Attachments

Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. - *CANCELLED*
     Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
          Location: Virtual via Zoom

Committee Recruitment

The County of Marin invited residents to apply to be members of the Countywide Priority Setting Committee. Applications were accepted through 4:00 PM on Friday, October 13, 2023.

The Countywide Priority Setting Committee oversees the distribution of federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Programs (HOME), and state funds through the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA). The Committee establishes funding priorities and reviews applications from local nonprofit and public agencies.

PLHA funds support the development and preservation of affordable housing. CDBG and HOME funds are used to support a variety of community-based programs, including affordable housing, community facilities, and public services, such as childcare scholarships and services for individuals with disabilities. All funded projects must serve low-income households. Priority is given to projects that affirmatively further fair housing and serve members of the protected classes.

There are three (3) openings on the PSC for community members representing the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities. Upon selection, committee member terms will go through Fall 2025. This year the openings are for community members from the following regions including neighboring unincorporated areas of:

  • Fairfax, Ross, San Anselmo, and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • Belvedere, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Marin City and Tam Valley
  • Countywide, at-large member
Announcement: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

 

Applications for 2023-24 Funding Cycle

Super-NOFA Application for Affordable Housing Funds

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW CLOSED.

For the 2023-24 grant year, the County of Marin is leveraging several different local, state, and federal funding sources by combining them into a single Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) totaling over $5 million for affordable housing. As a result of this “Super-NOFA,” affordable housing developers could apply for several different funding sources in a single application. For reference, the guidelines and application link are below. The deadline to apply was 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 17, 2023.

Super-NOFA & Application Guidelines
Online Application

Resources:
Application Prep Tool
Sample Pro Forma Spreadsheet
CDBG Project Budget Template
3/1/23 Applicant Workshop Presentation

The available funding includes roughly $2.3 million in County Affordable Housing Funds (including a one-for-one match from the State Permanent Housing Allocation), $2.4 million in new HOME-ARP funds through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and $600,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds specific to housing projects, also allocated by HUD.

The funds can be used for acquisition, rehabilitation, and new construction projects, although eligibility differs among the funding sources. The Super-NOFA guidelines provide more details about the different types of funding and criteria for project eligibility.

Below are the funding applications under consideration for the 2023-24 funding cycle:

Fiscal Year 2023-24 Committee Meetings

General Notice for Winter/Spring 2023 Public Meetings: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt
Applications for affordable housing funds were discussed and voted on for the 2023-24 fiscal year at the Countywide Priority Setting Committee meetings, Novato City Council meeting, and San Rafael City Council meeting. Recommendations from these meetings were then sent to the Marin County Board of Supervisors for final approval. Meeting dates are listed below. These meetings were open to the public and we encouraged all interested parties to participate.

Marin County Board of Supervisors Public Hearing
Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. or thereafter
Location: Virtual via Zoom (refer to Board website), or in person at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 330, San Rafael
Purpose: Hearing to issue final approval of funding recommendations.
Refer to the Notice (Español,Tiếng Việt) for more information about the Board hearing.DRAFT 2023 Annual Action Plan for Public Comment. 30-day comment period will close on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 5pm.

Priority Setting Committee – Funding Allocation Hearing
Thursday, May 18, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Agenda: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

San Rafael City Council Meeting

Monday, May 1, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. (Rescheduled)
Agenda and Staff Report: City of San Rafael Website
Purpose: Review the funding applications for projects located in San Rafael.


Novato City Council Meeting
Tuesday, April 25, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Agenda and Staff Report: City of Novato Website
Purpose: Review the funding applications for projects located in Novato.


Priority Setting Committee – Application Review Workshop
Thursday, March 30, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Agenda: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt
Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

General Notice for Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Meetings: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
Board of Supervisors HOME-ARP Allocation Plan Public Hearing
Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt
You may find additional information on the Board of Supervisors meeting webpage.

Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.
Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Agenda & Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Thursday, November 3, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.
Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Agenda & Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Fiscal Year 2022-23 Committee Meetings

General Notice for February-May 2022 Meetings: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Tuesday, May 10, 2022, after 9:00 A.M.
Board of Supervisors Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
   Notice: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
   Staff Report:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Thursday, April 7, 2022 at 6:00 P.M.
Countywide Priority Setting Committee Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
   Agenda and Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Tuesday, March 22, 2022 at 6 P.M.
Novato Planning Area Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
   
Agenda and Staff Report (City of Novato Website)

Monday, March 21, 2022 at 7 P.M.
San Rafael Planning Area Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
   Agenda and Staff Report (City of San Rafael Website)

Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 6 P.M.
The Countywide Priority Setting Committee reviewed and discussed the proposed CDBG and HOME project applications for FY 2022-23 funding.
   Agenda and Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

General Notice for the Sept-Nov 2021 Meetings: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Thursday, November 4, 2021 at 6 P.M. 
Topics include: Approve funding priorities & grant cycle timeline, discuss HOME American Rescue Plan funding, and discuss CDBG Timeliness
   Agenda: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt 
   Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Thursday, September 30, 2021 at 6 P.M.
Topics include: Conduct interviews for PSC, introduce funding cycle priority review, and discuss the Lead Safe Housing Rule
   Agenda: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt 
   Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

Thursday, September 2, 2021 at 6 P.M.
Topics include: Discuss Permanent Local Housing Allocation (State funding), HUD Audit, Racially Restrictive Covenant Project, and AB686
   Agenda: English, Español, Tiếng Việt 
   Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

2022 Federal Grant Application Cycle

The Housing and Federal Grants Division received ­­45 completed applications for the 2022-24 application cycle for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. Applications for HOME funding for the 2022-24 funding cycles are closed, as are CDBG Public Services and CDBG Capital. A limited application for 2023-24 CDBG Housing funding is available through the Super-NOFA and application released in early February 2023, linked above.

2022 Marin County CDBG/HOME Awarded Projects

Below are the completed applications that were considered for funding in the 2022 application cycle:

Federal Grant Applications for Program Years 2022-23 and 2023-24

Applications for the 2022-24 funding cycles closed on Monday, January 31, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

There are several important points to keep in mind when planning for your application:

  • Only complete applications submitted on-time will be considered for funding. Complete applications include the application document, project budget, and organization budget.
  • CDBG public service funds will first prioritize projects that provide Basic Health Services; Children, Youth, and Parent Support Services; Food Security; and Housing Support Services.
  • Housing funding will first prioritize projects that provide Family Housing and/or a Land trust model in eastern Marin that provides home ownership opportunities, with specific inclusion for African Americans.
  • Housing projects built before 1978 will require lead testing or proof of past testing/treatment in accordance with the Lead Safe Housing Rule. Project scopes should consider this and include these costs.
  • Minimum grant size is $15,000 per year.

More details can be found in the Application Guidelines provided below. Questions about the application and process may be submitted to the Housing and Federal Grants Division.


Application Submission Documents

Application Guidelines - English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Downloadable Application Template (Do not submit this form unless authorized by staff) - English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Budget Template - Housing and Community Infrastructure/Capital Project

Sample Budget

Budget Template - Public Services Project

Sample Budget

Notice of Application - English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Bidders Conference

An opportunity to learn about the application process, funding priorities, and types of eligible projects for the 2022-24 application cycle for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program. 

Tuesday, January 11th, 2022 via Zoom

11:00 am to 12:00 pm - Public Service Projects
PowerPoint Presentation

1:00 to 2:00 pm - Community Infrastructure/Capital and Housing Projects
PowerPoint Presentation

 

Committee Recruitment

The County of Marin invites Marin community residents to apply to serve on the Countywide Priority Setting Committee (PSC). The PSC oversees the distribution of federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) to support a variety of community-based projects, including affordable housing, community facilities, and public services, such as childcare scholarships and services for individuals with disabilities.

There were three (3) openings on the PSC for community members representing the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities. Upon selection, committee member terms will go through September 2023. This year the openings are for community members from the following regions including neighboring unincorporated areas of:

  • Fairfax, Ross, San Anselmo, and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • Belvedere, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Marin City and Tam Valley
  • Countywide, at-large member

Applications were due at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, September 15, 2021 by email to FederalGrants@MarinCounty.org or by mail to the Marin Civic Center at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308 San Rafael, CA 94903 ATTN: Housing & Federal Grants.

Application: English, Español, Tiếng Việt 
Announcement: English, Español, Tiếng Việt 
Flyer: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Committee Meetings

The County of Marin invites community members to attend and participate in all the Countywide Priority Setting Committee meeting. Below are a listing of past public meetings:

In the interest of protecting community members and employees from the spread of COVID-19, all in person public hearings related to funding recommendations for Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds, after March 2020, were held virtually.

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 6:00 PM, virtual public hearing through online video and/or phone access

Agenda and Staff Report: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

Board of Supervisors Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
Tuesday, May 4, 2021, after 9:00 AM
Notice: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Staff Report
English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Details on how to view or participate in the virtual public hearing, including access to Spanish interpretation, can be found at the Board of Supervisors webpage.

Due to reduced translation services available, please contact Housing and Federal Grants Division to receive the Annual Action Plan in Español and Tiếng Việt.

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
Thursday, April 1, 2021 at 6:00 PM
Notice: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Agenda and Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

San Rafael Planning Area Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
Monday, March 15, 2021 at 7 PM
Agenda and Staff Report

Novato Planning Area Funding Recommendation Public Hearing
Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 6 PM
Agenda and Staff Report

Countywide Priority Setting Committee – Committee Member Interviews and Project Review Hearing
Thursday, February 18, 2021 at 6pm
Notice: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Agenda and Staff Report

Draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report

The draft 2021-22 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)'s required comment period opened Monday, September 12, 2022 and closed at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 27.  

Draft 2021 CAPER (English)

Translation services available upon request. Please contact Housing and Federal Grants Division to receive materials in Español and Tiếng Việt.

Federal Grant Applications for Program Years 2021-22

The Housing and Federal Grants Division received 5 applications covering 4 additional housing projects. These will be evaluated for funding along with 25 applications previously received for the 2020-22 application cycle for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. All applications currently under consideration are here: 

Community Infrastructure/Capital Projects

Housing Projects

Public Services Projects

A call for additional applications for the 2021-22 funding cycle to support Housing Acquisition and Rehabilitation projects opened on January 25th, 2021. Completed applications were due to the Marin County Community Development Agency at 5:00 p.m. PST, on Friday, February 5th, 2021.

Funding for Capital projects and Public Service projects will be allocated using the 2020-22 2-year applications submitted in 2020. Housing projects previously submitted in 2020 were asked not to resubmit. 

Questions about the application and process may be submitted to the Housing and Federal Grants Division.

Application Documents

Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. PST, on Friday, February 5, 2021.

Application Guidelines

Application Form (Required)

Budget Form (Required)

Sample Budget

Committee Recruitment

Applications for the Countywide Priority Setting Committee

The County of Marin invited community residents to apply to be members of the Countywide Priority Setting Committee. The application opened on January 12, 2021 and closed on February 11, 2021 at 4pm. This committee oversees the distribution of federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) in Marin County.

There were four (4) openings on the Priority Setting Committee for community members representing the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities. This year the openings were for community members from the following regions: 

  • Larkspur, Corte Madera, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Kentfield and Greenbrae
  • Novato and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • San Rafael including the Canal neighborhood, and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • West Marin including the coastal corridor from Muir Beach to Dillon Beach, Point Reyes, and inland communities including Nicasio and the San Geronimo Valley

Selected committee member terms go through September 2022.

The Countywide Priority Setting Committee was expanded in 2012 with the goal of bringing greater diversity to the group that (1) advises the Board of Supervisors on the CDBG and HOME funding allocation process and (2) provides input on the County’s implementation of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. Therefore, this recruitment is specifically for individuals who represent the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities.

Application: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Committee Description: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

 

Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Countywide Priority Setting Committee Meetings

The County of Marin invites community members to attend and participate in all the Countywide Priority Setting Committee meeting. Below are a listing of upcoming public meetings:

In the interest of protecting community members and employees from the spread of COVID-19, all in person public hearings related to funding recommendations for Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds, after March 2020, were held virtually.

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 6:00 PM, virtual public hearing through online video and/or phone access

Registration is required using the following link:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_az9kXDraTWyGkxgnPi2Zdg

Agenda and Staff Report: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

Board of Supervisors Public Hearing

Tuesday, May 12, 2020, after 9:00 AM
To participate in the virtual public hearing visit the Board of Supervisors webpage and view the Agenda for details

Staff Report: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.
Attachments: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing **Rescheduled**
Thursday, May 7, 2020 at 6:00 PM, virtual public hearing through online video and/or phone access

Registration is required using the following link:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tEMOLMKESc-C3iU_oRRbsQ

Agenda and Staff Report: English, due to reduced translation services available, materials in Español and Tiếng Việt are accessible through Google translate from this page.

Novato Planning Area Public Hearing **Rescheduled**
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 at 6 PM, or thereafter, through WebEx, Meeting Number (Access Code): 264 560 715, Password: FJuKkMF24X3
Agenda: English
Staff Report:
English

For more information on how to participate, visit The City of Novato webpage here.

San Rafael Planning Area Public Hearing **Rescheduled**
Monday, March 23, 2020 and April 6, 2020 at 7 PM, or thereafter, streamed through YouTube Live
Agenda: English
Staff Report: English

The public can participate in the following ways:

Optional Priority Setting Committee Application Review Workshop
(this is a workshop only; no decisions will be made)
Thursday, February 20, 2020 at 6pm, at the Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt 
PowerPoint: English

Consolidated Plan and 2020-21 Funding Cycle Priority Setting Public Hearing
Date:
December 5th, 2019 7:00 P.M.
Location:
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Committee Member Interviews and Updates on the Consolidated Plan and Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing
Date: October 17th, 2019 7:00 P.M.
Location:
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

 

Federal Grant Applications for Program Years 2020-22

The Housing and Federal Grants Division received ­­48 completed applications for the 2020-22 application cycle for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) funds. The requests totaled $6 million for FY 2020-21 and $3.2 million for FY 2021-22. Below are the completed applications submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2020.

Community Infrastructure/Capital Projects

Housing Projects

Public Services Projects

--

Applications for the 2020-22 funding cycle opened on January 6th, 2020. Completed applications were due to the Marin County Community Development Agency at 5:00 p.m. PST, on Thursday, February 6, 2020.

There were three (3) notable changes to the application process:

  • Transitioning from a one (1) year application cycle to a two (2) year application cycle.
  • Increasing the minimum grant size to $15,000 per year.
  • Identifying Public Service funding category priorities as:
    • Housing Support Services
    • Basic Health Services
    • Children, Youth, and Parent Support Services

Questions about the application and process may be submitted to the Housing and Federal Grants Division.

Application Documents

Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. PST, on Thursday, February 6, 2020.

Application Guidelines - English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Online Application Form (preferred form of submission)

Printable Application Form - English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Housing and Community Infrastructure/Capital Project Budget

Sample Budget

Public Services Project Budget

Sample Budget

Housing and Community Infrastructure/Capital Bidders Conference Presentation

Public Services Bidders Conference Presentation

Bidders Conference and Application Information Session

In-person opportunities to learn about the application process, funding priorities, and types of eligible projects for the 2020-22 federal funding cycle for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program. All nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects are encouraged to attend:

Bidders Conference
Wednesday, January 15th, 2020
at the Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903

1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. - Public Service Project
2:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. - Community Infrastructure (Capital) and Housing Projects

RSVP by Monday, January 13th.

General Information 

The Marin County Community Development Agency makes grant funds available only to nonprofit agencies and local governments. We do not fund individuals or families.
  • The Federal Grants Division of the Marin County Community Development Agency administers the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. Both are funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
  • The Federal Grants Program is overseen by the Priority Setting Committee (PSC), which is made up of elected officials and community members from around the County.

Supplemental documents:

 

Priority Setting Committee Member Recruitment

The County of Marin invites community residents to apply to be members of the Countywide Priority Setting Committee. This committee oversees the distribution of federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) in Marin County.

There are three (3) openings on the Priority Setting Committee for community members representing the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities. This year, the openings are for community members from the following regions: 

  • Fairfax, Ross, San Anselmo, and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • Belvedere, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Marin City and Tam Valley
  • Countywide, at-large member

Upon selection, community members will sit for a two-year term from October 2019 through October 2021.

The Countywide Priority Setting Committee was expanded in 2012 with the goal of bringing greater diversity to the group that (1) advises the Board of Supervisors on the CDBG and HOME funding allocation process and (2) provides input on the County’s implementation of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. Therefore, this recruitment is specifically for individuals who represent the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities.

The application period for the Countywide, at large and the Belvedere, Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Marin City and Tam Valley seats closed on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 at 4:00 PM

Applications for the Fairfax, Ross, San Anselmo, and adjacent unincorporated communities were extended until Friday, October 11, 2019 at 4:00 PM.

Applicants participated in an interview with the Committee on Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:00 PM.

Application: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Committee Description: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

 

Fiscal Year 2019-20

Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)

The draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER)'s required 14-day comment period opened Monday, January 11 and closed at 4:00 p.m., Friday, January 29, 2021. Comments were accepted by email to the Housing and Federal Grants Division and hard copy comments were accepted at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308, San Rafael, CA 94903.

Report: English

Due to reduced translation services available, please contact Housing and Federal Grants Division to receive materials in Español and Tiếng Việt.

Priority Setting Committee and Planning Area Public Meetings

Board of Supervisors Public Hearing
Tuesday, May 7th, 2019, at 9am or thereafter
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers
3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Public Notice: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Federal Grants Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Voluntary Compliance Agreement Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
PowerPoint Presentation: English

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Thursday, April 4th, 2019 at 7:00 PM
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers
3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903 
Agenda: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt
PowerPoint Presentation: English

San Rafael Planning Area Public Hearing
Monday, March 18, 2019 at 7 PM, or thereafter
San Rafael City Hall, Council Chambers
1400 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901
Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt

Novato Planning Area Public Hearing
Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at 6 PM, or thereafter
Novato City Hall, Council Chambers
901 Sherman Avenue, Novato, CA 94945
Staff Report:
English, EspañolTiếng Việt

Optional Priority Setting Committee Application Review Workshop (this is a workshop only; no decisions will be made)
Thursday, February 7, 2019 at 7pm
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers
3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Workshop Memo: English

Funding Priority Public Hearing
Date:
September 20th, 2018 7:00 P.M.
Location:
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Committee Member Interviews and Funding Priority Workshop
Date: August 30th, 2018 7:00 P.M.
Location:
Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Agenda:
English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Completed Applications for the 2019-20 Grant Year

Completed applications for the 2019-20 grant year, which begins on July 1, 2019, are available for viewing by Planning Area by clicking on the links shown below. Note that HOME applications are a separate document. 

Countywide CDBG Applications 

Novato CDBG Applications 

San Rafael CDBG Applications 

County Other CDBG Applications (Serves Regions Outside of Novato and San Rafael) 

Countywide HOME Applications 

Bidders Conference and Application Information Session

Federal Grants staff will have two in-person opportunities to learn about the application process, funding priorities, and types of eligible projects for the 2019-20 federal funding cycle for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership programs. All nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects are encouraged to attend one these two meetings:

Bidders Conference

Wednesday, October 17th, 2018 at 2:30 P.M. at the Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 3501 Civic Center Drive, Room 330, San Rafael, CA 94903

Bidders Conference Presentation

West Marin Collaborative

Wednesday, October 24th, 2018 at 9:45 A.M., or thereafter, at the Point Reyes Library, 11431 State Route 1, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Priority Setting Committee Member Recruitment

The County of Marin invites community residents to apply to be members of the Countywide Priority Setting Committee. This committee oversees the distribution of federal funds through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) in Marin County.

There are three (3) openings on the Priority Setting Committee for community members representing the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities. This year, the openings are for community members from the following regions:

  • Larkspur, Corte Madera, and adjacent unincorporated communities, including Kentfield and Greenbrae
  • Novato and adjacent unincorporated communities
  • San Rafael including the Canal neighborhood, and adjacent unincorporated communities

Upon selection, community members will sit for a two-year term from September 2018 through September 2020.

The Countywide Priority Setting Committee was expanded in 2012 with the goal of bringing greater diversity to the group that (1) advises the Board of Supervisors on the CDBG and HOME funding allocation process and (2) provides input on the County’s implementation of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice. Therefore, this recruitment is specifically for individuals who represent the interests of racial and ethnic minorities and/or people with disabilities.

Committee membership applications are due by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 15th, 2018.

Priority Setting Committee Description: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Application: English, Español, Tiếng Việt

Fiscal Year 2018-19

Priority Setting Committee and Planning Area Public Meetings

Novato Planning Area Public Hearing
Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at 6pm or thereafter
Location: Novato City Hall, Council Chambers - 901 Sherman Ave., Novato, CA 94945
Staff Report: EnglishEspañolTiếng Việt

San Rafael Planning Area Public Hearing
Monday, March 19, 2018 at 7pm or thereafter
Location: San Rafael City Hall, Council Chambers - 1400 Fifth Ave., San Rafael, CA 94901
Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt

Countywide Priority Setting Committee Public Hearing
Thursday, April 5, 2018 at 7pm
Location: San Rafael City Hall, Council Chambers - 1400 Fifth Ave., San Rafael, CA 94901 
Hearing Notice and Agenda: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Presentation: PowerPoint - English

Marin County Board of Supervisors Hearing 
Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at 9am or thereafter (time to be determined)
Location: Marin County Civic Center, Board of Supervisors Chambers - 3501 Civic Center Dr., Room # 330, San Rafael, CA 94903
Hearing Notice: English, Español, Tiếng Việt
Staff Report: English, EspañolTiếng Việt
Presentation: PowerPoint - English

In addition to the four public hearings, this year there will be an optional application review meeting for the Priority Setting Committee.

  • Optional Priority Setting Committee Application Review Workshop (Please note, this is a workshop only, no decisions will be made)
    Thursday, February 15, 2018 at 7pm
    Location: Marin County Civic Center, Community Development Agency Conference Room - 3501 Civic Center Dr., Room # 308, San Rafael, CA 94903
    Presentation: PowerPoint - English

Community Development Block Grant and HOME 2018-19 Applications by Planning Area

Completed applications for the 2018-19 grant year, which begins on July 1, 2018, are available for viewing by Planning Area by clicking on the links shown below. Note that HOME applications are a separate document. Please review county notices in regards to our Planning Area Meeting Schedule (English / Español / Tiếng Việt)

Application Process

To be considered for funding, completed applications were required to be submitted to the Housing and Federal Grants Division no later than 5:00 p.m. PST on Monday, November 20, 2017.

The Marin County Community Development Agency makes grant funds available only to eligible nonprofit agencies and local governments; private individuals and families are not eligible for direct funding.

Marin County anticipated that it would receive roughly $1.3 million in CDBG funds and $600,000 in HOME funds. After subtracting administrative expenses, the funds are divided so that 40% goes to housing on a countywide basis and the remaining 60% goes to three local planning areas for housing, capital, and public service projects. At least 30% of each planning area's funds must be used for housing. Typically, the requests for CDBG assistance total more than three times the amount of funds available. Because of the competition for limited funds, many applicants cannot be recommended for funding and many are recommended for funding at less than the amounts they requested. Competition is most intense in the public service category.

Fiscal Year 2017-18

2017-18 Annual Action Plan

Community Development Block Grant and HOME 2017-18 Applications by Planning Area

Staff reports for 2017-18 grant year public hearings by Planning Area. 

Completed applications for the 2017-18 grant year, which begins on July 1, 2017, are available for viewing by Planning Area by clicking on the links shown below. Please review county notices in regards to our Planning Area Meeting Schedule: English / Español

Priority Setting Committee Member Recruitment

Priority Setting Committee applications are now available for community members. Please complete and return by September 30th at 4:00pm.

Priority Setting Committee and Planning Area Public Meetings

Staff reports will be made available prior to each hearing. Check this website for more information. The list of applications received is posted above.

 

Fiscal Year 2016-17

Application Information and Workshops

Applications

2016-17 CDBG and HOME Grant Application forms (download as a Word document):

Workshops

Staff Recommendations and Funding Reports

One staff report will be issued for each of the six geographic areas, called "planning areas," and one staff report will be issued for countywide housing projects, which include projects in the CDBG Countywide Housing category and projects recommended for HOME Program funds. Staff reports will be added as they become available. All staff reports are in PDF file format.

Previous Year Announcements, Meetings and Reports

Previous announcements, meeting agendas and reports are available for prior years back to 2012. You may access these below on this page.

The Marin County's Community Development Agency makes grant funds available only to eligible nonprofit agencies and local governments. We do not fund individuals or families.

Marin County will receive about $1.3 million in CDBG funds this year. After subtracting administrative expenses, the funds are divided so that 40% goes to housing on a countywide basis and the remaining 60% goes to six local planning areas for housing, capital, and public service projects. At least 30% of each planning area's funds must be used for housing.

Staff holds a workshop during which we explain the CDBG regulations, talk to potential applicants, and learn what the public sees as priorities.

For more information on the application process, please attend one of the workshops listed at the date and location below:

  • Wednesday, October 19th at Albert J Boro Center in San Rafael from 10am -12pm
  • Wednesday, October 26th at Marguerita Johnson Center in Marin City from 1-3pm

In late December, CDBG staff begins reviewing applications, requesting additional information if needed, and making staff recommendations about which projects should be funded. (City of San Rafael staff will review applications for San Rafael Planning Area funds.)

Typically, the requests for CDBG assistance total more than three times the amount of funds available. Because of the competition for limited funds, many applicants cannot be recommended for funding and many are recommended for funding at less than the amounts they requested. Competition is most intense in the public service category.

Most planning areas have a Local Area Committee, consisting of a County Supervisor from that area and one City or Town Council member from each of the cities and towns within the area. During January and February, each of the Local Area Committees holds a hearing to make recommendations for the use of planning area funds. The San Rafael and the Novato City Councils now serve as the Local Area Committees for the their Planning Areas, and San Rafael and Novato Planning Area funds now include their share of CDBG Countywide Housing funds.

The Countywide Priority Setting Committee, consists of one County Supervisor, a representative from each of the City and Town Councils and community members.  A hearing is then held to consider the recommendations made for the local planning area funds, and to make the initial recommendations for Countywide Housing funds.

Then, in early May, the Board of Supervisors holds a final public hearing on all the recommendations of the Countywide Priority Setting Committee for both planning area and countywide housing funds. In mid-May, the County sends its annual list of projects to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Please review all supplemental documents:

 

Fiscal Year 2015-16

Submission to the Board of Supervisors

Priority Setting Committee Meeting

Announcements

Community Development Block Grant 2015-16 Applications by Planning Area

Completed applications for the 2015-16 grant year are available for viewing by Planning Area by clicking on the links shown below. A list of all 2015-16 CDBG and HOME applications can be viewed by clicking here: List of 2015-16 applications received.

HOME Program applications

Reports

Earlier Meetings and Workshops

2014-15 Workshops

Priority Setting Committee Meetings (2014)

Schedule of Public Hearings for Program Year 2014-15 (posted 2/19/2014)

Priority Setting Committee to meet Monday March 24, 2014

Priority Setting Committee to meet Monday February 24, 2014

Completed applications for the 2014-15 Grant year are available for viewing by Planning area (posted 2/19/2014)

Planning Area Public Hearings (2014)

Reports

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2014-15 applications by Planning Area:

HOME Program 2014-15 applications:

Marin County HOME Program applications 2014-15 Part 1,

Marin County HOME Program applications 2014-15 Part 2

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Staff Reports (2013-14)

Priority Setting Committee Meeting

Completed applications for the 2013-14 grant year are available for viewing by Planning Area (posted 1/3/2013):

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) 2013-14 Applications

HOME Program 2013-14 Applications

2013-14 Application Forms and Instructions - Application DEADLINE is Thursday, December 13, 2012, 5:00 PM

July 9, 2012 Priority Setting Committee meeting (posted 7/3/2012)

2011-12 Announcements

2011-12 Staff Reports and Plans

Annual Funding Recommendation Reports

Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question to see the answer, or Open All Questions.

  • What types of projects can get CDBG funds?

    CDBG funds can be used for three general types of projects that assist low-income people: housing, capital, and public service projects.

    Housing

    Eligible housing activities include housing rehabilitation, acquisition of existing housing, acquisition of sites for housing construction, off-site improvements needed for housing development, and fair housing services, and housing planning and predevelopment costs. While CDBG funds can support housing development by paying for property acquisition, or off-site improvements, or for predevelopment expense. CDBG funds cannot ordinarily be used directly for housing construction itself or for predevelopment expenses. Types of housing projects we've funded include low-cost rental and ownership housing, senior housing, group homes, housing for people with physical and mental disabilities, homeless shelters, owner-built housing, and shared housing.

    Capital

    Eligible capital projects include most types of public facilities and community facilities, such as community centers, senior centers, centers for people with disabilities, day care centers, parks, recreation facilities, public works, buildings that house public services, and removal of architectural barriers which limit accessibility. This category also includes economic development activities.

    Public Services

    We are permitted to spend up to 15% of our CDBG funds on public services, which are very broadly defined. Some of the public service projects we've funded include day care programs for children and seniors, transportation for special needs groups, counseling programs, social service referrals, senior services, employment assistance, emergency food, educational services, and medical services. However, CDBG funds may not be used to replace cutbacks in local government support for public services. CDBG public service funds should be used for the direct delivery of services, and not for overhead or administration.

  • But isn't this a program for low-income people?

    Yes, even if a project fits one of the eligible categories, it must also pass the low-income benefit test. Most projects qualify if at least 51% of the users will be low-income, as defined by HUD. The income limit for a single-person household is $62,050, and for a family of four it is $88,600. A project meets the standard if at least 51% of the beneficiaries have incomes below the limit, or if it benefits a neighborhood with a high percentage of low-income people.

    For housing, if a structure contains two dwelling units, at least one must be occupied by a low-income household. If a structure contains more than two units, at least 51% of the units must be occupied by low-income households. For example, a four-unit building must have three units occupied by low-income households. For this calculation, adjacent rental (not owner-occupied) buildings under common ownership and management may be treated as a single structure. For new construction of multi-family non-elderly rental housing, the requirement is reduced to 20%. Rents for low-income units may not exceed 30% of the tenant's income.

    If a project gives scholarship assistance to low-income people, we count only those who actually receive assistance. Facilities and accessibility improvements for the elderly or for people with disabilities are automatically eligible. As a substitute for low-income benefit, projects may also qualify if they eliminate slums or blight or meet emergency needs, but the regulations make it extremely difficult to qualify under these categories.

    CDBG Income Limits
    Persons in Household Income
    1 $62,050
    2 $70,900
    3 $79,750
    4 $88,600
    5 $95,700
    6 $102,800
    7 $109,900
    8 $117,000
  • I'm still not sure if my project is eligible.

    Call us! We encourage all potential applicants to contact the CDBG staff before submitting an application. There are many more eligibility requirements than we could summarize here. Generally, construction expenses for new housing, predevelopment costs for housing, furnishings, maintenance, and income payments are ineligible, but there are exceptions. Staff can tell you whether your project, or a part of your project, is eligible.