Application Review Process

The application review process has three phases.  In the first phase, applications are reviewed by the Internal Work Group, which consists of staff from City departments and agencies.  Applications are initially reviewed for their eligibility under federal program guidelines. Eligible projects are then reviewed according to their contribution to the goals and objectives of the City's approved Consolidated Plan, their ability to help the City meet federal program guidelines, and other local priorities. Organizational capacity, experience, and past performance are also considered.

Working with the Internal Work Group is the Citizen’s Advisory Group. This is an eleven member citizen group composed of representatives from organizations and groups that advocate for low income persons or persons residing in areas affected by public actions. This group serves in an advisory capacity.

The Internal Work Group prepares a recommendation that is forwarded to the Norfolk City Planning Commission.  The Commission holds a public hearing on this recommendation, and subsequently, prepares its recommendation, which is forwarded to the Norfolk City Council.

The Norfolk City Council holds a public hearing on the Norfolk City Planning Commission’s recommendation. The action of City Council adopts the Consolidated Plan, finalizing the budgets.  Upon completion of the process, the City forwards the adopted Consolidated Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for approval.

Projects considered at the City Planning Commission and City Council public hearings are limited to those submitted according to the guidelines and time tables outlined in this package.  Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend and participate at these public hearings.