JAMESTOWN, NY – May 9, 2025 – The City of Jamestown’s Department of Development expresses deep concern regarding the President’s proposed federal budget, which calls for the complete elimination of the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
These critical funding streams have long served as lifelines for communities like Jamestown—enabling local efforts to address housing needs, drive economic development, improve public infrastructure, and support our most vulnerable residents. Eliminating these programs would severely undermine our ability to revitalize neighborhoods, reduce homelessness, and provide safe, affordable housing.
Over the years, Jamestown has successfully leveraged HOME & CDBG funds to create tangible, lasting improvements—supporting first-time homebuyers, enhancing housing conditions for low-income residents, assisting small businesses, and investing in infrastructure that elevates the quality of life for all. These programs are not merely line items in a federal budget; they are essential tools that empower local governments to meet the distinct and evolving needs of their communities.
“These funding sources are absolutely essential to our work in Jamestown,” said Crystal Surdyk, Director of Development for the City of Jamestown. “Without HOME & CDBG, we lose the ability to directly invest in our neighborhoods, assist residents and their families, and support community-driven revitalization. This is not just a budget decision—this is a decision that affects real people, real families, and the future of cities like ours.”
We urge Congress to reject the proposed cuts and continue its longstanding bipartisan support for these vital programs. Now more than ever, communities like ours need strong federal partnerships to foster resilience, promote sustainability, and support long-term prosperity.
The Department of Development remains committed to advocating for the resources necessary to support the City of Jamestown and its residents.
