The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is the principal Federal program providing localities with grants to devise innovative approaches to improve the physical, economic and social conditions in their communities. Palo Alto's CDBG Program is directed toward expanding and maintaining the affordable housing supply, promoting housing opportunities and choices, maintaining and improving community facilities, and providing supportive services for targeted low-income groups, including persons who are homeless, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other special needs groups. The majority of funds are distributed to local nonprofit agencies in the form of grants to carry out eligible activities.

Citizen's Advisory Committee
While the Palo Alto City Council decides which projects to fund from the applications submitted, active citizen participation is an important feature in the CDBG process. A seven-member CDBG Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), appointed by the Mayor, assists in the assessment of projects presented for funding consideration. Committee members are appointed by the Mayor and serve a two-year term. Members may serve no more than two consecutive two-year terms.

Members of the CAC:

• Carol Anderson – Term expires December 31, 2008 (Year 1, Term 1)
• Susie Brain - December 31, 2007 (Year 1, Term 1)
• Jeff Chen - December 31, 2008 (Year 1, Term 1)
• Lynn Fielder - December 1, 2007 (Year 2, Term 1)
• Michael Jakoby - December 31, 2008 (Year 1, Term 2)
• Richard Schoelerman - December 31, 2008 (Year 1, Term 1)
• Donald Mendoza (HRC Liaison)

Any questions regarding the CDBG Program should be directed to Robin Ellner, CDBG Secretary at 650-329-2603 in the Planning Division of the Department of Planning and Community Environment.