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Governor Proposes Eliminating HOMEConnecticut Funding
in Deficit Mitigation Plan December 4, 2009 -- The deficit mitigation plan released by Governor Rell’s office on 11/24/09 includes suspension of the remaining $2.38 million of funding for the state’s HOMEConnecticut Program (officially the Housing Program for Economic Growth). Because the proposed cut in funding exceeds the rescission amounts that the Governor is authorized to make, it will require legislative approval. The HOMEConnecticut Campaign is urging supporters of this program to contact legislators and let them know that funding for HOMEConnecticut must not be cut. Click here for a fact sheet detailing the reasons to keep HOMEConnecticut’s funding intact. Click here to find contact information for state legislators. The HOMEConnecticut Program is a voluntary program that provides technical assistance grants and incentive payments to towns that are interested in identifying responsible growth locations where they can increase density and provide affordable housing options. Since the program was enacted in June of 2007, over 50 towns have applied for technical assistance grants and at least a dozen others have expressed interest. Additionally, two towns have already submitted Incentive Housing Zone applications, with another eight towns ready to submit plans in early 2010. The deficit mitigation plan also includes a $20,000 rescission to DECD’s portion of HOMEConnecticut funds, which will not require legislative approval. In addition, the Governor’s plan included rescissions and cuts to Housing/Homelessness services and supportive housing programs. Click here to read more about those cuts and rescissions. Rescissions do not require legislative approval. The Governor has the authority to reduce 5% of any line item and 3% of the General Fund budget. The portion of the deficit mitigation plan that goes beyond this authority must be acted on by the legislature. The Governor has asked the legislature to return on December 15 to consider these required cuts. |
