Bellevue Accepting Applications From Nonprofits For Block Grants

BELLEVUE, WA —The City of Bellevue is reminding local nonprofits that applications are being accepted for federal community development block grants for non-construction capital projects and economic development projects

The applications and details about the grants are available online. Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. on June 1.

According to the city, eligible projects include:

• Architectural and engineering and other soft costs
• Single-family home rehabilitation
• Weatherization or acquisition costs
• Economic development such as microenterprise business assistance

Each year, the city receives these community development block grants from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development to address priority needs identified by the city.

The city has made clear that, at this time, the grants are not for public service projects like homeless services, counseling, food banks and senior services

The city said there will be an estimated $1.3 million available through this round of grants.

The Bellevue Human Services Commission will review the applications in early summer and present funding recommendations to the City Council in the fall, according to the city.

The city reminds potential applicants that the grants do come with significant compliance and reporting requirements.

"Responsive performance reporting, specific demographic data records and meticulous documentation requirements can extend for years beyond the completion of a block grant-funded activity," the city said in a statement.

An online handbook called "Playing by the Rules: A Handbook for CDBG Subrecipients on Administrative Systems" provides details about the administrative requirements that come with receiving block grants.

Other questions about the applications or the grants can be directed to Donna Adair at 425-452-4069 or dadair@bellevuewa.gov.