ECDA executive director Barbara Brewer Watson and assistant director Maya Pedagua updated the Kankakee City Community Development Committee on Dec. 1 about housing program progress and the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) public service funding cycle.

Brewer Watson said 33 construction projects are currently active; November saw three completed lead‑abatement projects, one Healthy Homes completion and two CDBG housing‑rehab completions. She noted some projects will be delayed by winter weather and material lead times but staff expect additional completions in December.

Assistant director Maya Pedagua outlined the CDBG public‑service application process: four required informational sessions are scheduled (Dec. 2 at noon and 5 p.m.; Dec. 4 at noon and 5 p.m.), applicants must attend one session to receive an application, letters of intent must be submitted in person by 3 p.m. on Dec. 19, and full applications with supporting documents are due by 4 p.m. on Jan. 16. Pedagua said the Community Advisory Board will hold a public hearing on Feb. 4; CAB will prepare funding recommendations in March for committee and city council consideration in April.

Staff encouraged nonprofit partners to use ECDA online resources (Facebook, Instagram and email lists) and to contact ECDA staff for assistance completing grant reports and drawdown requests. Marlena, an ECDA staff member, is handling closeout and drawdown coordination for agencies that have not yet drawn funds.

The committee asked staff to compile a January report listing active construction projects by ward to increase transparency about local investments and to help track service distribution across neighborhoods.