Orlando Standard

The City of Orlando has announced its intent to request the release of funds for a multi-year project aimed at rehabilitating the Governors Manor Apartments. The formal request will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) on or after October 8, 2024.

The project will utilize funds from Title II of the Cranston Gonzales National Affordable Housing Act and Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act (HCDC) of 1974. Specifically, it will draw from the City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding (B-23-MC-12-0015) and HOME funding (M-21-MC120214).

This initiative is designed to assist Housing Neighborhood Development Services (HANDS) of Central Florida in renovating 120 housing units within the Governors Manor apartment complex. For FY 2024, $522,000 in CDBG funds are earmarked to renovate approximately 44 units. The total estimated cost for the project is $990,000. Renovation activities will include updates to kitchen cabinets, countertops, bathroom vanities, AC handlers, insulation, and other improvements necessary to replace fixtures that were originally installed 53 years ago.

"The activity proposed is categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements," stated an official notice. The Environmental Review Record (ERR), documenting environmental determinations for this project, is available for public review at Orlando City Hall or online.

Public comments on the ERR can be submitted to the City of Orlando Housing and Community Development Department until October 7, 2024. All received comments will be considered before authorizing submission of a request for fund release.

Mayor Buddy Dyer has certified that he consents to accept federal court jurisdiction if action is brought regarding environmental review responsibilities. HUD’s approval signifies compliance with NEPA and related laws, enabling Orlando's use of HUD program funds.

Objections to fund release must be based on specific criteria outlined by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58. These objections can be directed to Larry T. Hayes at larry.t.hayes@hud.gov or through contact with Tonya R. Madison via email at tonya.r.madison@hud.gov for verification of objection period deadlines.