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September 5, 2008HUD CUTS RED TAPE TO SPEED RELIEF TO HARD-HIT FLOOD AREAS IN IOWA |
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From HUD: U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston today agreed to allow Iowato spend approximately $26 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding more quickly, thereby speeding relief to flood-ravaged areas of the HawkeyeState. Preston granted several waivers that will give Iowa substantial flexibility to overcome regulatory and legal hurdles and accelerate the pace of recovery in 85 counties that were devastated by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. "When it comes to helping communities get back on their feet, HUD remains committed to doing everything it can to cut red tape and help Iowa put this money to work where it's needed most," said Preston. "These counties need help now and I'm pleased to be able to expedite the State's request to get its long-term recovery plan up to full speed." "I want to thank Secretary Preston for joining with Iowans as we continue our rebuilding efforts." "This waiver will help move us farther down the road to recovery. HUD is meeting Iowa's request for several waivers and statutory suspensions to allow it to reprogram approximately $26 million in existing CDBG funding to disaster-effected parts of the State. Allowing the State to retain businesses and jobs by removing a requirement that each job benefit a low- or moderate-income person. On August 4th, HUD allocated an additional $85 million in supplemental CDBG funds to Iowato support the State's long-term disaster recovery and critical infrastructure needs. Shortly, HUD will make additional allocations to Midwestern States when it completes a more thorough study of each state's unmet needs.
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