BOISE - Idahoans are invited to comment on local housing and community development priorities using a new online survey tool developed by the Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and the Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor (IDCL). The results will inform statewide planning efforts involving approximately $86 million in federal block-grant funds during the five-year period beginning April 1, 2005.

The survey can be accessed via IHFA's Web site: http://www.ihfa.org/research_developneeds.asp. IHFA and IDCL administer federal housing and community development funds primarily in Idaho's 'non-entitlement' areas-communities with populations less than 50,000-although residents of every city and county are encouraged to respond.

"We know local needs have changed in the past five years," says IHFA Housing Resources Coordinator Erik Kingston. "This process helps us fine tune our program focus in each region and community, and offers the public some ownership in how their federal tax dollars are distributed here in Idaho. Every comment will be considered and included in the final plan submitted to HUD."

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires states and entitlement communities to submit a consolidated plan that identifies needs and prescribes strategies and actions. Activities eligible for HUD block grants include affordable multifamily housing, community infrastructure, public facilities and other resources that benefit communities and their low- to moderate-income residents.

"This year we are making every effort to include the public in identifying and prioritizing local needs." explains Cliff Long, Community & Rural Development administrator for IDCL. "This survey builds on input we've already received from a dozen statewide public forums. Ultimately, we want the strategies we create for the next five years to reflect current issues and priorities."

A draft of the strategic planning document will be available for public review and comment from Dec. 23 through Feb. 7, 2005, with the final plan submitted to HUD by Feb. 15, 2005.

Additional background material is also provided to further describe the planning process, eligible activities and current strategies. For additional information or to request help accessing or completing the survey, send an e-mail to hirc@ihfa.org or contact project coordinator Erik Kingston toll-free at 1-877-438-4472 /TDD 1-800-545-1833 or by mail at P.O. Box 7899 Boise, ID 83707-1899.

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The Idaho Housing and Finance Association, a financial services and housing organization, provides funding for affordable housing in Idaho communities where they are most needed and when it is economically feasible. IHFA uses no state funds or state employees to support its operations. For more information, visit our Web site at www.ihfa.org.