Thursday, July 31, 2008 | Regarding the CDBG audits, I say it’s about time. I commend your journalists for their efforts to get this information out to the public. I can’t say for certain if the local news channels reported any of this yesterday, but I would bet not. The SEDC investigations were barely touched by the stations, and to me this is a much more important issue than microclimate weather.
I am frustrated that more citizens don’t speak out about the amount of money that has gone unaccounted for. This country is straining to keep its head above water financially and no one is stepping up. The economy may be labeled a “national” issue; however, we have to start the healing process at the community level. I’m told to conserve water and electricity when in fact they’re the ones that should be conserving. Any middle income family in San Diego is already conserving.
I’m a 27-year-old, part-time student, fulltime employed transplant from Florida. I rent a condo with my wife and daughter at the above address so I’m a little hesitant to try and get involved because of my social status. But I know in my heart there are more citizens out there just like me, that don’t have a voice or representation. The CDBG program is a good thing. My small low-to-moderate income community in Florida benefited tremendously from these grants. I know worthy communities rely on these grants; however I know certain communities take advantage, along with certain “programs.” To me this is a national news story. These monies come from federal taxes that have an effect on all cities in America. San Diego can step up, move forward and help all communities across our nation to pay closer attention to what happens to our money.
I wrote a comment on a recent article about San Diego’s “fire” problem a few days ago. In it, I mentioned the CDBG grants and how so much money is wasted. Lo and behold, your journalism efforts have reinforced my point. I just wish we all could get the point.