Hearings Set on City Plans for Housing

The public is invited to a series of hearings on the city’s long-term strategy for addressing housing and community development needs.

The citywide meetings will allow residents to offer their views on the draft of the five-year housing and community development consolidated plan, as well as the 2003-04 housing and community development action plan budget.

The 2003-04 action plan includes more than $181 million in program funds, said Edward Baker, assistant general manager of the Los Angeles Community Development Department.

“It’s an opportunity for the public to comment on the specific plans for funds for next year, as well as the strategic direction the city is considering for the next five years,” Baker said.

Participants will discuss the use of federal funds offered by community development block grants, emergency shelter grants, Home Investment Partnerships and Housing Opportunities for People With AIDS.

The City Council will consider the draft and make modifications before the document is submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“I want to encourage Angelenos to attend these public hearings,” Mayor James K. Hahn said in a statement. “It is important to hear your comments and recommendations.”

The meetings will be held at the following locations:

Wednesday, El Centro de Ayuda, 2130 E. 1st St., 6 p.m.

Thursday, Green Meadows Recreation Center, 431 E. 89th St., 2 p.m.

Jan. 28, Greater Echo Park Neighborhood Council, Logan Elementary School, 1711 Montana Ave., 7 p.m.

Jan. 29, The West Valley Municipal Building, 19040 Vanowen St., 7 p.m.

Jan. 30, Elysian Valley Community Services Center, 2812 Newell St., 6:30 p.m.