County staff opened a public hearing on Oct. 7 and described a proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for the Diakonia 611 Shelter Project, a two‑phase affordable rental and supportive services development proposed at 9601 Stephen Decatur Highway.

Lynn Wright of the county's housing office said the full project cost is roughly $10.9 million across two phases. Phase 1 would construct an administrative building and a retail building to house a thrift store and community food pantry; the thrift store is expected to produce program income to help sustain services. Worcester County is applying for the CDBG program's maximum grant of $800,000 to assist Phase 1 construction, Wright said.

The hearing was opened for public comment; no members of the public spoke at the microphone. Commissioner Bertino moved to proceed with the county's CDBG application; Commissioner Brunell seconded. The motion passed unanimously, 7–0.

County officials said funding for the full project is expected from a mix of federal, state and local grants plus private donations and fundraising; the applicant plans to combine multiple sources to complete both phases. The county described the project as targeting individuals transitioning from shelters and institutions, providing affordable rental housing with a range of support services on site.

Commissioners approved the county moving forward with the application and instructed staff to proceed with the required CDBG application materials and public-notice steps.