Martha Robbins, executive director of the Monroe County Redevelopment Authority, made a presentation during the first of two public hearings on the 2017 Community Block Grants on Wednesday morning.

Robbins said Monroe County was allocated $329,679 in 2016 and is estimated to receive the same in 2017.The Community Development Block Grant program is funded by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to assist local jurisdictions to implement community development initiatives that address three core goals: decent housing, a suitable living environment and expansion of economic opportunities.The Monroe County allotment does not include Stroudsburg or East Stroudsburg boroughs. Both have been federally designated as entitlement areas and are therefore entitled to CDGB funds specifically designated for the needs of the residents there.Uses for the grants must meet one of three national objectives to qualify.The application must show that the planned use will, provide a benefit to low and moderate income people; aid in prevention or elimination of blight, or address an urgent need, such as flood or severe hurricane damage.The applications for 2017 funds are due by 3 p.m. on Aug. 4. Projects are to be selected no later than Sept. 1. Funds will be released in the spring of 2018.CDBG funding in Monroe County reached a high of $550,000 in 2004. The total allotted to the county has dropped below $400,000 every year since 2011.