The CDBG entitlement program provides annual grants through HUD on a formula basis to entitled counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. Over the last seven months, the county has established the CDBG office to develop projects and programs specific to the Consolidated Plan of 2008. The plan is a document the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires each entitlement agency to prepare in order to receive HUD's grant money. The plan was a basic 3-5 year plan that identified local needs in housing and community development and establishes local goals to accomplish by utilizing HUD's grant funds. One of the important parts of the Consolidated Plan is the Annual Action Plan. The action plan is prepared each budget year and outlines in detail what activities will be carried out and how they will be funded. The programmed activities in the Action Plan should help achieve the community’s long-term goals identified in the Consolidated Plan; and are approved by County Council. This will be the second year that Horry County is eligible and therefore the first time preparing its Annual Action Plan. As the county goes forward with planning the next 3-5 years, they are asking the public for citizen participation and their assistance in helping identify the types of projects that should be financed in the future with these funds. In order to assist in assessing needs, public hearings were held on February 24, 2009 from 6:00 - 7:00 pm at the Horry County Government & Judicial Center offices, Second Ave. Conway. There will also be a meeting on March 5, 2009 from 5:30-6:30 pm at the Socastee Library. Input on application process and assistance in identifying potential projects, as well as eligibility criteria, was discussed.