Green Bay Reporter

The City of Green Bay is calling on residents to contribute to shaping the future use of federal community development funds aimed at strengthening neighborhoods and creating affordable housing over the next five years.

The city is preparing two key documents: a "Consolidated Strategy and Plan for Housing and Community Development" for 2025-2029, which will serve as a guide for addressing community needs, and an "Annual Action Plan for 2025," outlining specific programs for the upcoming year. These plans will dictate how millions in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership funds are allocated to assist low- and moderate-income families in securing decent, affordable housing and improving their communities.

Green Bay faces substantial housing challenges, with a projected need for between 3,314 and 7,441 new rental units by 2040 to meet demand. The current shortage includes 3,715 affordable rental units for the lowest-income residents. Home prices have risen by 14% in the past year, reaching a median of $285,000, making it difficult for many working families to afford housing.

Efforts to address these issues include programs from the Green Bay Housing Authority, which provides affordable housing where tenants pay just 30% of their income in rent. NeighborWorks Green Bay has facilitated the creation or renovation of 466 homes and apartments. Additionally, nearly $2 million in federal HOME-ARP funding was recently secured to create new affordable rental units and provide supportive services specifically for homeless individuals and families.

To gather public input on housing and community development priorities, the Redevelopment Authority of Green Bay will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. This meeting will be held both in-person at Room 604 of City Hall (100 N Jefferson Street) and virtually via Zoom.

Residents are encouraged to share their thoughts on pressing housing and community development needs. Public input will play a crucial role in determining how federal funds are prioritized and utilized within Green Bay neighborhoods.

For those wishing to participate:

- Attend in person at Room 604, City Hall.

- Join online via Zoom using Meeting ID: 876 5706 5660.

- Participate by phone by dialing either +1 646-876-9923 or +1 312-626-6799 with Meeting ID: 876 5706 5660.

Individuals requiring special accommodations or translation services can contact the Community and Economic Development Department at (920) 448-3400.

For further information:

William J. Peters Jr.

Neighborhood Development Specialist

City of Green Bay

Department of Community & Economic Development

Phone: (920) 448-3150