The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) makes numerous grants available each year. When applying for federal funding, a signed HUD Form-2991 (Certification of Consistency with the Consolidated Plan) is required. This form confirms that the proposed project aligns with the goals and priorities of the City of El Paso’s Consolidated Plan, including demonstrating need, matching the strategic plan’s objectives, and being located in an approved geographic area.
In addition, for Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funding administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), nonprofits proposing shelter activities must submit a letter affirming local government approval. This satisfies HUD and TDHCA’s requirements for accountability and due diligence and helps prevent service conflicts by ensuring shelters are placed in areas with proper infrastructure and community support.
DCHD staff will ensure the proposed program aligns with the City’s Consolidated Plan, complete the required form (HUD-2991 or TDHCA), verify zoning compliance, and route the packet to the City Manager’s Office for signature. The signed form will then be returned to the requester. The City requires a minimum of 30 days to review and respond to a request. Additional questions may be asked of the requester and require a response within 2 days.
When & What to Submit:1a. HUD Form-2991 – Certification of Consistency with the Consolidated Plan
Complete the top four fields:
- Applicant Name – Organization applying for funds
- Project Name – As listed in the HUD grant application
- Activity Location(s) – List all service sites within the City of El Paso (not corporate offices). For domestic violence, trafficking, or youth shelters, enter “site confidential.”
- Federal Program Name
Download Form HUD-2991
This form confirms the project aligns with the City of El Paso’s Consolidated Plan and is required for certain federal grant applications.
– OR –
1b. TDHCA Local Government Approval Form (for ESG Shelter Activities)
Complete the top section with:
- Applicant Name
- Project Name
- Service Location (where services will occur – not the corporate office)
- Federal Program – Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
This form must be signed by the City Manager or their designee. It confirms local government approval, satisfies HUD and TDHCA requirements, and ensures shelters are located in areas with appropriate infrastructure and community support.
2. DCHD Certificate of Consistency Form
Complete this form provided by the Department of Community and Human Development (DCHD). The form will ask for:
- A description of the services
- The target population
- How the project aligns with the City’s Consolidated Plan
- Expected outcomes (e.g., number of people or households served)
- Funding use and breakdown (e.g., direct assistance, admin, salaries)
Most information can be pulled directly from your grant application.
3. Zoning Verification Letter
A Zoning Verification Letter from the City of El Paso’s Planning and Inspections Department is typically required. The letter must:
- Be issued within five years of the program year start date
- Confirm that the project location is properly zoned for the proposed use
If zoning compliance is still in progress, a written plan must be submitted. A new letter is required if the project relocates. Projects located in public schools or City Parks Department facilities are typically exempt.