History of the Department, Past Accomplishments, Organization

History

In 1974 the County of Kern Board of Supervisors gave responsibility for development of the first HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application to the County Administrative Office (CAO) and the Planning Department. In 1975, the Community Development Program Division originated as a division of the CAO. The division was made a separate county department in 1977.

The first year HUD grant was for $1.4 million managed by a staff of 7. The current CDBG grant is about $5.2 million with additional $2.1 million in HOME and ADDI Entitlements and $230,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant funds (ESG). The current staff totals 19.

Past Accomplishments

Since 1975, the County has funded many types of eligible activities including, but not limited to:

Water system improvements, fire protection facilities, sewer system improvements, senior centers, day care centers, health centers, libraries, centers for the handicap, parks and recreation facilities, drainage improvements, street improvements, housing rehabilitation, facilitation of affordable housing production, elimination of architectural barriers, and economic development.

Organization

In October 1996, the Community Development Program Department was made part of the Resource Management Agency. The department is organized into four Divisions: Planning, Fiscal, Agreements and Compliance, Economic Development, and Housing. It is located in the County Public Services Building in order to coordinate its services and assistance with other County departments with related goals and objectives.

For further information, contact the Community and Economic Development Department at (661) 862-5050

July 31, 2006