# Ames in Focus: From Ideas to Impact with Vanessa Baker-Latimer

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/city-of-ames-podcasts-7161270/ames-in-focus-from-ideas-to-impact-with-vanessa-baker-latimer-2
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/city-of-ames-podcasts-7161270/ames-in-focus-from-ideas-to-impact-with-vanessa-baker-latimer-2.md
Podcast: [City of Ames’ Podcasts](https://stenobird.com/podcast/city-of-ames-podcasts-7161270)
Published: 2026-07-14T11:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://amesinfocus.podbean.com/e/ames-in-focus-from-ideas-to-impact-with-vanessa-baker-latimer-1783709543/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/vbe9hgbss2qd96ay/7-14-2026_-_Ames_in_Focus_-_Vanessa_Baker-Latimer_15m05s_9641r.mp3
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Duration seconds: 905

## Resource

How do federal dollars help improve neighborhoods, support affordable housing, and strengthen the Ames community? More importantly, how can you help decide where those funds go? In this episode of Ames in Focus, Bill Gebhart sits down with Housing Coordinator Vanessa Baker-Latimer to discuss the 2026-27 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Annual Action Plan. They explain what the plan is, how federal funding can be used for neighborhood revitalization, housing, community facilities, and economic development, and why public input plays an important role in shaping the City's priorities. Whether you're interested in housing, neighborhood improvements, or simply want to have a voice in how federal funding is invested in Ames, this episode will help you understand the process and how to get involved. In this episode: What the CDBG and HOME Annual Action Plan isHow federal funding supports housing, neighborhoods, and community projectsThe national objectives that guide funding decisionsHow to submit comments and help shape the Annual Action PlanWhere to review the draft plan and learn more Residents can submit comments on the draft Annual Action Plan through Thursday, July 23. Visit www.CityofAmes.org/Housing for more information, to review the draft plan, and to learn how to provide feedback.

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