Team IEM’s CDBG 50th Anniversary Spotlights: Tim Lagudi
Tim Lagudi, Director of Citizen Services
Tim Lagudi is a driving force in IEM’s housing and disaster recovery programs. His expertise in program and grants management guides recovery projects to better serve applicants in need, more quickly and efficiently completing projects with positive outcomes. Throughout his decades of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) experience, Tim has contributed to projects in four states to better assist families and households after disasters.
Tim is an integral part of our team, and we are proud to have his expertise leading many of our impactful program deliveries committed to rebuilding disaster affected homes. Dive into Tim’s history and experience to gain insight into his successful career below.
What has your role been in CDBG programs?
I have been primarily involved with CDBG-Disaster Recovery and CDBG-Mitigation funded projects for the last 11 years – dating back to Hurricane Sandy in New York. I started as the “data guy”, a position that evolved into serving as Program Manager – leading teams in New York, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Florida, and overseeing a portion of IEM’s portfolio of CDBG-DR programs. I thoroughly enjoy supporting communities in need after a disaster and the opportunities it creates to drive change for a more resilient future across the United States.
How have you seen communities impacted by CDBG programs?
Communities experience significant positive impacts from CDBG programs, particularly through improvements in infrastructure, affordable housing, and economic development, increasing community resilience. These funds facilitate housing rehabilitation and new construction, address local business needs, and enhance public services, providing greater access for vulnerable populations. Additionally, CDBG has supported disaster recovery efforts, helping communities rebuild following a disaster and become more resilient. Overall, these programs promote sustainable development and empower residents by involving them in decision-making that impact their lives.
What challenges does CDBG currently face?
CDBG programs currently face several challenges, including funding limitations that restrict the scope of projects and initiatives communities can undertake. Bureaucratic inefficiencies often complicate the application and administration processes, leading to delays and frustrations for local governments, organizations, and the residents they serve. Additionally, there is an increasing demand to meet diverse community needs while adhering to stringent federal regulations that creates barriers to effectively addressing local priorities. On top of that, the increasing demand for resources given economic and social disparities can strain existing funding, making it difficult to achieve desired outcomes. These challenges require ongoing advocacy for program flexibility and increased funding to best serve communities.
How do you think CDBG will evolve in the next decade?
CDBG programs are likely to evolve with a continued focus on sustainability and resilience, increasing the program’s impact on climate change and environmental challenges. This may include integrating more green infrastructure projects and funding initiatives that promote energy efficiency and disaster resilience. There will also be greater emphasis on leveraging technology for community engagement, data collection, and project implementation, and enhancing program transparency and accountability. As community needs continue to diversify, CDBG should adapt by adopting more flexible funding mechanisms that enable officials and communities to better address local priorities and foster equitable development.
To that end, CDBG-DR funding should be permanently authorized and codified, moving away from supplemental appropriations required by Congress.
What recommendations do you have for communities seeking CDBG-DR/MIT funding?
Communities using CDBG funds for Disaster Recovery and Mitigation should start by conducting thorough, data-driven needs assessments to identify specific priorities and potential challenges. Building strong partnerships with CDBG experts, local organizations, stakeholders, and residents will enhance project proposals. This in turn fosters collaboration and creates community buy-in. Maintaining transparent communication throughout the process and developing clear, detailed plans will increase the likelihood of securing funding and successfully implementing projects that address community needs and priorities.
