City to address federal concerns on housing grant
The city has come up with a plan to address concerns raised by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development over $7.9 million in federal money awarded to a Central Oahu nonprofit.
The city had 30 days from HUD’s letter, dated May 27, that questioned whether the money that was given to ORI Anuenue Hale programs was properly used to help the elderly and disabled and whether the program’s wellness center was being underutilized.
HUD sought the return of the $7.9 million unless the city and ORI Anuenue Hale could show they spent the money in compliance with rules governing community development block grants.
In response, a letter signed by Mayor Peter Carlisle said they believe they have come up with a “reasonable plan for corrective action.”
He said they will continue to work with ORI Anuenue Hale to deal with the concerns and have reached “a strong framework for success” based on an agreement with the organization.