Public Statement | December 24, 2025

 

Over the past several weeks, the Neighborhood Engagement Hub (NEH) has conducted a focused review of our operational standards, accountability practices, and project oversight—particularly for ARPA-funded initiatives intended to support neighborhood improvement.

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As part of this review, NEH evaluated ARPA-funded projects under our administrative oversight. During this process, we reviewed a First Ward ARPA-funded blight elimination project intended to reduce blight and support repairs for properties in need. Following internal assessment and outreach to all involved parties, NEH was unable to verify full project completion, required documentation, and confirmation of work consistent with NEH’s standards of excellence. Multiple attempts were made to obtain the necessary verification.

 

While the project followed applicable ARPA funding guidelines at the time of approval, NEH remains committed to accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of public resources. Based on the results of this review and the inability to confirm fulfillment, NEH made the decision to terminate the project.

 

This process reinforced the importance of continued improvement and the need to add measures above standard project requirements to strengthen how we operate. In response, NEH has been actively updating and strengthening internal processes, including enhanced project requirements, increased documentation and verification protocols, and updates to our standard operating procedures. These actions are being implemented to ensure greater consistency, clarity, and accountability moving forward.

 

Our mission remains unchanged: to serve as a catalyst for positive neighborhood change by supporting communities in becoming safe, healthy, and whole. As we continue this work, NEH is committed to maintaining the trust of our residents and partners through both our mission and the integrity of our operations. We look forward to growing alongside our community and continuing this work with renewed focus and strengthened systems in the year ahead.

 

NEH will continue reviewing project oversight practices to ensure ARPA-funded work is verifiable, documented, and aligned with intended community outcomes.

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Tom Wyatt, Executive Director

Neighborhood Engagement Hub

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The Neighborhood Engagement Hub offices are closed for the holidays. Staff will return on January 5, 2026