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Housing & Community Development

Community Development Block Grant

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds originate at the federal level in the Housing & Urban Development (HUD) department. CDBG funds are then distributed to the State of Ohio through the Office of Housing and Community Partnerships (OHCP). OHCP then distributes the funds statewide on an annual basis through a formula allocation. This formula allocation is calculated using a formula, population counts, and unemployment estimates. Erie County receives an average of $200,000 a year. Approximately $40,000 is automatically set aside by the state for the City of Vermilion. The remaining portion ($130,000) is distributed at the discretion of the Erie County Commissioners. The average project amount in Erie County has been $25,000 and any project selected either in the City of Huron, City of Vermilion, or a township must meet one of three national objectives set by HUD. These objectives are:

  • Assist an area with a population of at least 51% low and moderate-income persons. A project could consist of road resurfacing, the installation of sewer/water lines or ADA restrooms.
  • Eliminate slum and blight. This type of project would target an area of the community that is particularly deteriorated and needs restoration.
  • Remedy an emergency situation. Should a local community experience a flood, tornado, or water line break CDBG funds could be used to pay for any necessary repairs.

During the spring of each year, notices are sent to each community in Erie County allowing the jurisdiction to submit a proposal for CDBG funding. Once all proposals are received, two public hearings are held with the County Commissioners to determine which projects have the highest priority; therefore, projects meeting one of the national objectives and having a high priority are usually funded.  View CDBG 2011 Projects (PDF)

Fair Housing Program

The Erie County Fair Housing Program is here to help Erie County residents by answering housing questions, providing education on housing rights and responsibilities, and offering assistance in filing fair housing complaints. Fair Housing means one may freely choose a place to live without regard to one's race, color, disability, religion, sex, national origin, or family status. The Fair Housing Program assists everyone free of charge because fair housing is a right protected by Federal and State law.

Check out the following brochures for more information on Fair Housing in Erie County:


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