Community Development : History

Maricopa County Community Development (MCCD) has marked more than 25 years with the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), and has received the HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) for approximately 15 years. 

The CDBG program began under Title 1 of the U.S. Housing and Community Development Act of 1974.  CDBG objectives are to develop viable communities that provide decent, safe and sanitary housing, a suitable living environment and expanded economic opportunities primarily for persons of low and moderate income.  CDBG projects must meet one of three National Objectives.

In 1992, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program became the second major grant program for residents of the Urban County .  HOME funds can be used for a variety of housing activities benefiting low and moderate income individuals.

Currently there are twelve communities and the unincorporated areas of Maricopa County participating in these programs that provide much needed assistance for residents of low and moderate income areas. 

The Community Development Advisory Committee (CDAC) is made up of elected officials appointed by their communities, and by individuals approved by the board of supervisors. The CDAC oversees the allocation and expenditure of the grant funds.

MCCD administers the CDBG and HOME programs for the Urban County .  Generally, incorporated communities with populations less than 50,000 may apply for funds in conjunction with their county government.  A cooperative arrangement between these communities and the county is required to create the Urban County .  The unincorporated areas of the county may also apply for funding.