A. In order to encourage the effective and efficient use of the CDBG finds in the eradication of blight and benefit to LMI persons, the following assessment mechanisms have been developed. The citizens of the county shall be afforded reasonable access to records concerning any project undertaken with CDBG funds. Appointments to review CDBG projects may be set up with the clerk to council during normal working hours. Confidential information normally protected under state and federal freedom of information laws are exempted from disclosure and or review requirements. Every effort shall be made to conveniently accommodate all citizens’ request for public information; however, the county reserves the right to schedule appointments based upon work load of the clerk to council and his/her staff.

B. Prior to the close-out of all CDBG funded projects, at least one public hearing shall be held to review the performance and accomplishment of the use of CDBG funds in obtaining benefits to LMI persons and the community as a whole. Public testimony shall be welcomed at this hearing.

C. Complaints or grievance concerning the CP, its contents or development shall be submitted to the County Administrator, Colleton County, 200 Brown Street, P.O. Box 157, Walterboro, South Carolina 29488. The county shall prepare a written answer to all written complaints or grievances within fifteen (15) days where practicable. Copies of all responses to grievances or complaints involving state law or policy, state CDBG program guidelines, or federal regulations governing the CDBG program and the county response shall be provided to the Division of Economic Development of the Governor’s Office for review and approval prior to responding to the complaint.

D. Complainants who do not believe that the county has satisfactorily responded to their complaint or grievance may appeal all decisions by the county council to the Division of Economic Development, Office of the Governor, 1205 Pendleton Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29902. However, the state reserves the right to deny all appeals which involve the consistent application of the county of Colleton program policies. The complainant may seek relief in the appropriate court of law after the above described appeals process has been exhausted. (Amended during 1995 codification; Ord. 89-O-86 (part), 1989)