Where do you want our money going?

From the Boring-But-Important files: There are several Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Priority Task Force public hearings coming up -- and they give Portlanders the opportunity to weigh in on where they think millions of dollars of federal funds are most needed. 

On September 3, 8, 9, and 10 (that's tomorrow, and Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of next week), the task force will seek public input on how to prioritize approximately $2.1 million in federal funding. Tomorrow and Monday, the focus will be on education, employment, public health, and "safe and strong communities," according to a release sent out by the city. Next Tuesday and Wednesday, the focus will shift to economic development, housing, and public infrastructure needs (the first night is for residents and local business people, the second night is for the "development community").

"The projects that come forth under those priorities are the ones that will be funded," says Housing and Community Development program manager and CDBG point person Amy Grommes Pulaski. "Until the applications come in its difficult to know what will be funded. However, historically the program has funded a number of social service organizations, sidewalks and parks."

Keep in mind that water infrastructure improvements, the skate park, and bicycle paths could fall under some of these subject headings. So could energy efficiency measures / projects. "Considering the current cost of heating oil, it is likely energy efficiency will be discussed at some or all of the meetings," Pulaski says.