Rochester opens 30-day public comment period on millions in proposed federal housing and development spending plans

Rochester, New York – The Rochester has officially opened a 30-day public comment period tied to two important federal housing and community development funding plans, giving residents a chance to weigh in before final approval later this summer.

City officials announced the release of the draft 2026-27 Annual Action Plan along with a proposed substantial amendment to the 2018-19 Annual Action Plan. Both documents outline how federal grant money is expected to be used to support housing initiatives, neighborhood development, and assistance programs across the city.

The public review period began with a formal notice issued Tuesday and will remain open for 30 days. During that time, residents can examine the proposed plans in detail, submit written comments, and speak directly to city leaders during two scheduled public hearings.

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The hearings are set for Wednesday, May 20, and Thursday, June 11. Officials said the meetings are intended to provide community members with an opportunity to offer verbal feedback on how the city plans to allocate millions of dollars in federal assistance funding.

The proposed 2026-27 Annual Action Plan centers on the anticipated use of $12.65 million in grant funding expected from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, commonly known as HUD. The funding would support a range of city programs and projects during the upcoming fiscal year, though final allocations remain subject to review and approval.

In addition to the upcoming budget plan, the city is also seeking public input on a proposed amendment involving previously awarded federal funds from the 2018-19 program year. The amendment would redirect $15,000 in unspent money originally designated for Homebuyer Training into Homebuyer Assistance.

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According to the proposal, the adjustment would allow those dollars to instead provide direct down payment and closing cost support for first-time homebuyers, an area city officials believe could have a more immediate impact for residents trying to enter the housing market.

The comment period represents one of the final public-facing steps before the spending plans move toward adoption. Once the review window closes, the proposal is expected to head to the Rochester City Council for consideration during its June 16 meeting.

Residents interested in reviewing the full public notice, reading the draft documents, or learning how to submit comments can access the materials online through the city’s consolidated planning webpage.