Notice of Intent to Request Release of Funds
July 19, 2016

City of Franklin
207 West Second Avenue
Franklin, VA 23851
(757) 562-8580

On or about July 28, 2016 the City of Franklin will submit a request to the HUD Richmond Field Office for the release of the HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds under Title II Section 211 of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, as amended, to undertake a project known as City of Franklin HOME Program, for the purpose of assisting existing homeowners with repair, rehabilitation or reconstruction of their owner-occupied dwelling units and homebuyer assistance.

The activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act requirements. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on file at City of Franklin, Department of Community Development, West Second Avenue, Franklin, VA 23851 and may be examined or copied weekdays 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the City of Franklin, Department of Community Development, P.O. Box 179, West Second Avenue, Franklin, VA 23851. All comments received by July 28, 2016 will be considered by the City of Franklin prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

RELEASE OF FUNDS
The City of Franklin certifies to HUD that Mr. R. Randy Martin in his capacity as City Manager consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’S approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows the City of Franklin to use Program funds.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD will consider objections to its release of funds and the City of Franklin’s certification until August 11, 2016 or for a period of fifteen days following its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Franklin; (b) the City of Franklin has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the project have committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by DHCD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58) and shall be addressed to HUD, 600 E. Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219-1800, Attention: Mr. Ronnie J. Legette, St., Director, Community Planning and Development Division. Potential objectors should contact HUD at (800) 842-2610, Extension 4833, to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Mr. R. Randy Martin, City Manager/Certifying Officer
City of Franklin