City Prepares Grant Application

City Administrator Simon Dwyer outlined Olney’s application for a $750,000 grant from the Texas Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) during a public hearing held before the June 9 City Council meeting.

While the city has submitted its “needs” list, the process called for a public hearing “to receive comments from citizens on community needs and input on potential projects,” Mr. Dwyer said.

Mayor Rue Rogers emphasized aligning the grant proposal with the city’s broader goals.

“We want to make sure it complements what we’re already doing... we don’t want to go out here and pave something that (OEDC Executive Director) Tom (Parker) and his group are getting ready to do something on.”

Mr. Parker provided updates on related initiatives, including downtown revitalization and sidewalk improvements.

Mr. Dwyer noted that Grossman Engineering would assist with planning and emphasized that the grant required matching funds to be competitive.

“We’re excited. This is the first time we’ve been invited to go this far in a while,” he said.

Council members expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of funding for much-needed infrastructure improvements.

“If we can get sidewalks, if we can get some of that stuff fixed, it would be great,” Council member Ronnie Cowert said.

The application will be finalized over the summer with continued public and council input.