Catherine reports that there are two new questions posted on the city’s “Open City Hall” webpage.

The first question sounds like its in anticipation of updating the city’s strategic plan for 2010:

Should the City continue it’s Smart Growth strategy in downtown Decatur?

The second sounds like its looking for affirmation on a big part of the city’s existing Community Transportation Plan:

Should major intersections be rebuilt to promote bicycle and pedestrian uses, even if motorists are inconvenienced?

For those new to this feedback system, answers are ultimately compiled and presented to the city commission for consideration.

Oh, by the way – yes and yes.

The AJC reports that six Georgia communities will receive HUD funding to help combat foreclosures.  Of the six, DeKalb County will receive the most money – $18.5 million – that’s six million more than the city of Atlanta.

DeKalb gets the most money because it holds the unenviable position of being the most populous county with the largest foreclosure problem in the state.  If you’re interested in comparisons, here’s a useful map that shows Georgia foreclosures by county in December.

According to another, slightly more in-depth article on the subject, “State and local governments can use the grants to acquire property, demolish or rehabilitate abandoned homes and buildings and offer downpayment and closing-cost assistance to low- and moderate-income home buyers. The program also requires housing counseling for families receiving home-buying assistance.”

UPDATE: In the comments, CSD Mom reports that this event has been canceled due to a death in Ms. Ifill’s family.

Carl reminds us that PBS journalist Gwen Ifill speaks on “Politics and Race in the age of Obama” at Agnes Scott tonight.  Doors open at 6p.

Click here for details.