Houston Withdraws Federal Grant Application After Council Approval Concerns
The city sought $150 million from the U.S. Department of Justice for initiatives including homelessness and crime reduction, but withdrew the application due to unclear guidelines and lack of council approval.
The city sought $150 million from the U.S.
· Updated
Mayor John Whitmire's administration has withdrawn its application for a $150 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice. The grant, part of the "Model Cities Initiative," was applied for without the city council's prior approval.
Administration officials had twice placed the grant application on the council's agenda in September but removed it before any vote. Concerns were raised by community members and some council members regarding the grant's guidelines, which included aligning initiatives with "immigration law enforcement operations."
In a statement, Mayor Whitmire acknowledged that staff submitted the application prematurely to meet the deadline. He stated that due to this error and a lack of clarity on the program's guidelines, the city would withdraw its application.
The grant funds were intended for programs assisting Houston's unhoused population, as well as efforts to combat violent crime and reduce domestic violence. Council member Alejandra Salinas expressed satisfaction with the withdrawal, noting concerns about potential requirements to assist ICE operations.
FAQ
Why did Houston withdraw its federal grant application?
Houston withdrew its application for the Model Cities Initiative grant due to staff submitting it prematurely without council approval and concerns over unclear program guidelines related to immigration law enforcement.
What were the intended uses for the grant money?
The grant funds were intended to assist Houston's unhoused population, fight violent crime, and reduce domestic violence.
