Affordable Housing Development Grants

Affordable Housing Development Grants is sponsored by Richland County, SC. These grants are for projects involving new construction or rehabilitation of owner-occupied or rental housing, and new construction of transitional housing, aimed at developing affordable and workforce housing.

Affordable Housing Development | Richland County SC opens in new tab or window Affordable Housing Development Richland County utilizes both HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds with Program Income to leverage local investment from nonprofit and for-profit developers.

The goal is to create and/or preserve both rental and homeownership affordable housing units for households up to 80% of Area Median Income. In general, HUD funds may be invested as grants or low-interest financing to serve as gap resources for eligible soft and hard costs in housing projects in unincorporated Richland County.

To provide decent affordable housing for low- to moderate-income households, including rental, homeownership, and transitional housing opportunities. To invest in the development and preservation of workforce housing. To expand the capacity of non-profit housing providers.

To strengthen the ability of state and local governments to provide housing. To leverage private sector participation.

Program Status: Opening Soon Richland County Community Development Office will release a Notice of Funding Available (NOFA) in August 2025 to call for proposals from non-profit and for-profit Affordable Housing Developers and Programs with a proven track record in the development and management of affordable and workforce housing.

Detailed information will be provided to interested parties through the County’s website and applications for funding will be accepted on a rolling, first-come, first-served basis. Required information sessions will be held for applicants and Technical Assistance will be provided by County staff and HUD Consultants, as needed. Proposals will be considered for the investment of HOME, CDBG, and other local resources.

All proposals will go through an underwriting evaluation, be required to provide match investments, and demonstrate a strong track record in development and management of affordable/workforce housing. Eligible proposals will be recommended by County staff for consideration by the County’s Affordable Housing Ad Hoc Committee.

The County plans to seek proposals for the following activities and outcomes: Proposed Eligible Activities New construction of owner-occupied housing: Construction of new homes for low-income individuals and families. Rehabilitation of owner-occupied housing: Necessary repairs and improvements to existing homes.

New construction of rental housing: Construction of new rental properties that meet HUD affordable housing standards with required affordability periods. Rehabilitation of rental housing: Necessary repairs and improvements to rental properties. New construction or rehabilitation of Transitional Housing Housing Buy-Down: Through assistance at the transaction of sale to eligible household.

Assistance to homebuyers: This includes down payment assistance, closing costs, and rehabilitation of purchased homes. Homebuyers involved in funded projects may be eligible for down payment assistance through the County’s First-Time Homeowner Assistance Program (RCHAP) . Mapping Tool to Identify Census Tracts and Block Group LMI Rates Make one call or email through the Ombudsman.

Business owners can pay Richland County hospitality taxes online. Update the County if your business activities, name, address or ownership have changed. Businesses offering short-term accommodations can pay Local Accommodations Taxes online.

Richland County has the attractions and hospitality you’re sure to love. Purchase Order Conditions Terms and conditions for Richland County purchase orders. The backbone of the County’s digital infrastructure, developing secure, efficient, and innovative technology services for residents and employees.

A pet license identifies and protects your dog or cat if they get lost and signals it is vaccinated against rabies. Take these steps to bring pets back home. Keeping communities safe by promoting responsible pet ownership and protecting against the diseases carried by pests.

Learn how you can help control the community cat population. Learn about spay/neuter vouchers available for pets and Trap Neuter Return (TNR) programs. Know the options available for burying or removing deceased pets.

Review of fire plans for compliance with County and state regulations. Review of fire plans for compliance with County and state regulations. Protecting lives and property through fire safety education and enforcement of fire and safety codes.

Understand inspections and requirements for Richland County. Courts and Judicial System Ensuring justice and public safety in Richland County through civil, criminal, family, and probate legal proceedings. Provides legal defense to individuals charged with crimes who cannot afford to hire an attorney.

Chief prosecutor of the Fifth Circuit handling criminal cases on behalf of the State of South Carolina for Richland and Kershaw Counties. Resolves disputes between people, businesses, or organizations. Court forms for Magistrate Court from South Carolina Judicial Branch.

Common items and where to recycle or dispose properly. Learn the rules for pets and how to handle common situations. Community clean sweeps and anti-litter enforcement.

Commercial Pet Breeder Permit A permit to ensure pet breeding businesses are in a suitable location and pass inspection. Court forms for Common Pleas from South Carolina Judicial Branch. Master-in-Equity Court Rosters Court-appointed advocates for children through Family Court and beyond.

Understand how values are assessed for land and buildings. Maintaining County roads and storm drain systems. Determines whether a person arrested for a crime can be released before trial and under what conditions.

Understand permitting steps for homeowners and contractors in Richland County. Share the location of a neglected, unsafe or abandoned home or building. Understand the plan review process for Richland County.

Schedule building inspections in the correct order to avoid delays. Schedule home inspections in the correct order to avoid delays. Search for Richland County properties by tax map number, address or owner.

Columbia-Richland Fire Careers Learn about firefighter positions with the Columbia-Richland Fire Department. Sheriff's Department Careers Learn about careers and internships with the Richland County Sheriff's Department. Find upcoming public meetings and events based on your interests.

View codified ordinances and non-codified ordinances. Attend events and meetings, or apply to serve in your community. Learn about Richland County officials, their roles, and contact details.

Investigates deaths that are sudden, unexpected, or unattended to determine cause and manner of death. Surrender or Rehome a Pet Tips to help find a new home for a pet. Providing treatments and public education on insects that can spread diseases to humans.

Get connected to lost and found pet resources, report a cat or dog concern, and obtain a County pet license to reflect current vaccinations. Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center Part of the criminal justice system, this is where people are held after being arrested in Richland County.

Provided funding for hundreds of neighborhood improvement projects, including road widenings, intersection upgrades, dirt road pavings, sidewalks, bikeways, greenways and more. Safeguarding public facilities for departments to serve residents, businesses, and visitors efficiently. Collecting taxes, maintaining bank accounts, investing funds, and maintaining trust with efficient and helpful service.

Learn about job opportunities at Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center. Small Local Business Enterprise Certification (SLBE) Qualify to bid on Richland County contracts for construction, services, and goods and appear in our directory.

Explore budgets, tax reports, and financial transparency resources. Neighborhood Improvement Program Supporting the long-term health of neighborhoods by investing in resident-directed projects and planning. Planning and Development Services Providing guidance to develop property in Richland County from concept to completion.

Review the legal disclaimer for the website. Review the privacy statement for the website. Understand the requirements for registering or relocating mobile homes in Richland County.

Ensure subdivision plans meet code requirements. Ensure commercial plans meet code requirements. Providing professional and cost effective emergency and public safety planning, response and recovery programs for County residents.

Understand business license and business tax requirements, plus small business certification and support. Oversight, maintenance and enhancements of transportation and infrastructure systems. Explore types of permitting and requirements for Richland County.

Providing for your safety, health and welfare as you interface with public infrastructure. Legislative Delegation and Veterans Affairs Uniting elected leaders and Veterans Affairs to serve and strengthen resources for our veterans and their dependents. Guiding responsible growth across Richland County.

Procurement and Contracting Promoting full and open competition for purchasing goods and administering contracts. Register to bid and receive notifications of Richland County opportunities. View upcoming opportunities to bid on Richland County projects.

View active opportunities to bid on Richland County projects. Information about roads, drainage, stormwater, and Jim Hamilton-LB Owens airport. Identifying, assessing, and managing risks across all County operations.

Recording and maintaining real estate records and other land-related documents for public access. Columbia Area Development Partnership Driving high-impact economic growth in Richland County through new industry and workforce investments. Affordable Housing Development Investing in the development, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing in unincorporated areas of Richland County.

Building Permitting and Inspections Protecting communities by ensuring homes, businesses, and public spaces are safe and up to code. Maintaining the fiscal integrity of the County’s financial records, issuing payments, producing reports, and performing audits. County Administration oversees the day-to-day operations to serve the public and carry out the policies set by County Council.

Behind the scenes 24/7, every day of the year to ensure citizens have clean drinking water and safe, reliable sanitation services. View Richland County information about fair housing. Business Personal Property Tax View recording fees by document type for Register of Deeds.

Fund local conservation efforts as a Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Friend. Details for developers about our land development processes. Court forms for General Sessions from South Carolina Judicial Branch.

View upcoming court dates and schedules for all case types. Animal Care Advisory Committee Provides oversight and recommendations regarding improving animal care services. Building Codes Board of Appeals Hears and decides on appeals to the decisions of the Building or Fire Official.

East Richland Public Service Commission Oversees functions of constructing, operating, maintaining and financing a sanitary sewage collection and treatment system throughout the district. Serves as the County’s chief prosecutor, responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and overseeing diversion programs. Provides repairs to income-eligible homeowners for critical health and safety needs on their home.

Community Development Block Grants Grants from the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Find guidance for your small business to grow and discover new opportunities.

Applying tax rates, ensuring rates are correctly applied and maintaining public records on local taxes. The County Administrator serves as the administrative head of Richland County, directing and coordinating the operation of agencies and administrative activities established by County Council. Learn how to set up curbside service and what's accepted for both recycling and garbage.

Hospitality Tax Information Hospitality tax details and total sales tax rate in different jurisdictions for different types of purchases. Change the mailing address for a home, building or land record. Calculates and prepares property tax bills based on assessed values and applicable tax rates.

Apply for water or sewer service via email, fax, by mail or in person. Get detainee information, visitation guidelines, and mail rules. Historic Columbia Foundation Operates and manages two historic properties.

Find information for business personal property, hospitality, and accommodation taxes. Learn about local flood management, safety and property protection. Emergency Solutions Grant Helps individuals and families in our community experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their homes.

Your personal guide to County services. Reach out to find answers and get assistance. How to establish, pay, or check the status of Family Court payments.

Learn what items go where for curbside and drop-off centers. Residents may use the drop-off garbage and recycling centers free of charge. Review the comprehensive benefits package for employees.

Handles matters such as wills, estates, guardianships, conservatorships, and marriage licenses. Richland County Bailey Bill Special property tax assessments for rehabilitation of historic buildings. Understand County departments and how services are structured.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Academy Learn about our accelerated medical training program for EMT certification. Funds available to help promote conservation and historic preservation. Performing Arts Center Board Sets policy, priorities and rates for the Ira and Nancy Koger Center for the Arts.

Richland County Recreation Commission Delivers quality recreation programs in order to better promote health and improve the quality of life in Richland County. Creates community benefit from 90 miles of the region’s rivers. Transportation Penny Advisory Committee Reviews, comments on, and provides recommendations to County Council regarding use of the one-cent additional sales tax.

Decides which taxes are non-collectable and should be deleted from the tax rolls. Grants and Community Outreach Empowering Richland County by securing and managing grants that drive sustainable growth, strengthen communities, and support vital services. Community Development Mailing List A division of Magistrate Court that resolves disputes involving $7,500 or less.

Find information on property, motor vehicle, and business taxes, including online payment options and tax-related forms. Rent Conservation Equipment Equipment is available for rent in Richland County and the Twenty-five Mile Creek Watershed. Historical Marker Program Understand the steps to propose an historical marker.

Landowners can protect their land through conservation easements Enrich: African American History Tour Explore African American landmarks and special sites in Richland County. Richland County Ag + Art Tour Subscription Data Services A fee-based subscription service for online viewing of records related to Richland County deeds and estates. Explore our local community partnerships.

Valuing and listing all real property for tax purposes and maintaining property ownership records. Get the forms and learn the steps for a new business license application for Richland County. Helping businesses navigate the local licensing process and meet County requirements for hospitality and accommodation taxes.

Court Appointed Special Advocates Assisting families and advocating for children through Family Court matters and beyond. Explore jobs dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of the public. Browse all Richland County jobs and apply online.

Manages court records and oversees the administration of court cases, including civil, criminal, and family court matters. A division of Circuit Court that handles felony and serious misdemeanor criminal cases. Handles cases where someone is accused of breaking the law, from minor offenses to serious crimes.

Handles legal matters involving families, such as divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and juvenile issues. Learn about conservation and protection efforts for our area's natural, cultural and historical resources. Emergency Medical Services One of the busiest and most highly respected emergency medical services response teams in South Carolina.

Midlands Regional Convention Center Authority Engages in all aspects and activities related to the Convention Center. Reviews all areas of County operations which County funds are levied, collected, expended, or otherwise used. Explore our mapped datasets designed to support a variety of Richland County operations.

Neighborhood Enrichment Grant application. View the plans for public input and reports regarding the strategic use of Federal funds. Renew your annual business license online, by mail, or in person.

View business hours, parking information, and holiday closings. Food Service Establishments Understand the requirements for food service establishments connected to Richland County sanitary sewer systems. Understand what happens when taxes go unpaid and how to avoid penalties.

Elections Public Records Request Request public records related to voter registration and elections. View Magistrate Court Judges by location and court information. Historic Preservation Grants Grants available for site restoration and preservation education and research programs.

Information, instructions and bidder registration for the annual tax sale and sealed bid auction. Grants available for protecting and enhancing water quality and natural areas. Understand the steps required for commercial utilities projects.

Americans with Disabilities Act Notice Review the Americans with Disabilities Act Notice. Browse open and upcoming bid opportunities and register as a Richland County vendor. Understand how taxes are calculated for aircraft.

Assists residents, developers, and business owners with information about land use and zoning classifications. Review Master-in-Equity information regarding foreclosure sales. Handles citations and tickets for driving violations.

Review the Master-in-Equity 2026 Court updates. Zoning overlays maintain the unique architectural, natural, cultural, and historic attributes of neighborhoods. Master-in-Equity Procedures Review Master-in-Equity procedures.

Review Master-in-Equity fees. Judge Lawrence Order of Reference Checklist Review the Master-in-Equity Order of Reference checklist. Economic Development Committee Works to assist new companies considering locating in Richland County and existing companies considering expanding operations.

Development and Services Committee Meets regarding the operational matters, economic development, functions and activities of Public Works and Engineering. Rules and Appointments Committee Reviews, provides oversight, and serves as advisory body on the rules of the County Council concerning appointments to County boards, commissions, and committees. Administration and Finance Committee Functions as a committee of ways and means.

Ad Hoc and Short-Term Committees Groups that form for specific tasks or objectives and end when completed. Business Service Center Appeals Board Hears appeals on actions related to County business licenses. Accommodations Tax Advisory Committee Makes recommendations on the expenditure of revenue generated from the Accommodations Tax.

A relatively quick and inexpensive means of litigation resolution for civil, non-jury matters over $7,500. Collects and distributes property taxes and manages the County’s financial assets. Oversees the performing arts venue to provide quality services to the community.

Learn about voter education services available for local organizations. Music Festival Commission Oversees the execution of music festivals in Richland County. Library Board of Trustees Oversees and guides the long-term strategies for the ongoing success of Richland Library.

Not sure where to turn? The Richland County Ombudsman's Office is your one-stop contact for answers, requests and problem-solving. Available financial support for tourism-related projects that attract visitors for overnight stays.

Financial support for organizations offering innovative and needed services for all citizens. Enforces the law and provides public safety services including criminal investigations and patrols. Request a monthly payment plan to manage your property tax bill.

Understand how real property is valued for taxation in Richland County. Access County property data and maps and update information if needed. Learn how three key County offices work together and how to read the tax bill.

Developing and implementing policies, procedures and programs to support County employees. Conservation Plans and Projects Learn about our ongoing conservation projects and how you can get involved. Voter Registration and Elections Providing every citizen the opportunity to register to vote and maintaining the integrity and accuracy of elections.

Learn about involuntary commitments for mental health or substance use. Guardians and Conservators Procedures for petitioning for conservator and/or guardian for an incapacitated adult or application for conservator for a minor. Apply for a marriage license, or request a certified copy of your completed license.

Access Probate Court records information in person, by mail and online. Apply for a marriage license, or request a certified copy of your completed license. Ensuring justice and public safety in Richland County through civil, criminal, family, and probate legal proceedings.

Handles estate administration, estate and trust litigation, appointment of guardians and conservators, civil commitment, and issues marriage licenses. View the total revenue collected for Richland County road maintenance by fiscal year. Serves as liaison between the various levels of government, individual citizens and the elected Senators and House Representatives of Richland County, in the South Carolina General Assembly.

Enforcing the local laws on chemicals or substances that may be harmful to people or the environment. Access Richland County Probate forms and understand related terms. Explore property, business, tax and development information.

Richland County's Title VI statements, procedures and reporting. Available financial support to organizations or projects with a mission to attract tourists. Open an estate after death, search for pending estates, and search estate records.

Understand the requirements for registering or relocating manufactured homes in Richland County. Government and Community Services The Richland County Government and Community Services Department connects Richland County residents with their local government. Learn about the different departments of Richland County Government.

Learn about the long-term plan for Richland County’s growth, development, and preservation. Pay your Richland County taxes online, in person, by mail or request a payment plan. Public Information Office Increasing public awareness and understanding of Richland County Government and serving as a media contact.

Review the different qualifications for tax exemptions on real property and vehicles. Steps to request non-exempt public records in accordance with the SC Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Learn about poll manager training and election worker opportunities.

A division of Circuit Court that hears civil lawsuits involving large claims, such as injury cases, contract disputes, or property matters. Pay your Richland County water or sewer bill online, by phone, in person, by mail or set up automatic drafts. The Detention Center maintains a zero tolerance policy for sexual harassment of inmates.

Business Personal Property Taxes Businesses pay taxes on business-related furniture, fixtures and equipment. Reduce the assessment ratio from 6% to 4% when you meet residency and ownership requirements. Officially recorded real estate records for Richland County.

Subscription Data Services A fee-based subscription service for online viewing of records related to Richland County deeds and estates. Follow the outlined process to appeal your property's valuation within 90 days of notice. Apply to interview for posted vacancies in citizen service boards, committees, and commissions.

Board of Voter Registration and Elections Oversees all aspects of elections in Richland County, from voter registration to certification of results. Early and Absentee Voting Learn about early voting and qualifications for absentee voting. Administering grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to improve low-income neighborhoods.

Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority (CMRTA) Promotes transportation opportunities for all citizens within Richland County and a limited service area in Lexington County. Lexington Richland Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council Provides alcohol and drug abuse services to Lexington and Richland Counties. Richland Memorial Hospital (Prisma Health) Board of Trustees Oversees the operation and governance of the hospital system.

Central Midlands Council of Governments Guides area-wide development wit research, planning and technical assistance. Board of Assessment Appeals Hears appeals related to property tax disputes between the Assessor and the taxpayer. Riverbanks Park Commission Governs the Riverbanks Park Special Purpose District for the financial stability of the zoo.

Learn about airport operations and pilot information. Learn about the airport facilities and send a request. Learn how forfeited properties are sold, including offer forms and payment instructions.

Jim Hamilton-LB Owens Airport A single runway general aviation facility supporting transportation and economic development needs. Complete the interest form to connect with the Office of Small Business Opportunity. Learn about airport history, commission and partners.

Find Richland County programs and services to strengthen communities. Understand how taxes are calculated for watercraft. Educational materials are available for Richland County educators to borrow for classroom use.

Conservation Education Mini-Grants Apply for up to $1,000 in grant funding to support conservation projects and youth environmental education initiatives. Protecting our natural, cultural and historical resources through outreach, grants, and special projects. Register to vote, or check your registration ahead of elections.

Learn about upcoming elections in Richland County. Assistant County Administrators Assistant County Administrator direct and coordinate different departments within Richland County. Midlands Workforce Development Board Helps strengthen and improve our nation’s public workforce system.

Richland County Early Voting Locations All Richland County early voting locations. Understand how taxes are calculated for campers and motor homes. Community Relations Council Works to make the Midlands a better place to live and work for all residents Hospitality Tax Advisory Committee Reviews applications and makes recommendations regarding the allocation and distribution of the County Promotions portion of hospitality tax funds.

Discover employee benefits, browse open positions, and apply for employment. View local laws, elected officials and the many opportunities to participate in Richland County Government. View the budget timeline with recorded meetings and documents.

Richland County Polling Location Precinct List All Richland County polling location precincts. Rental properties require registration in Richland County. Pay your water and sewer bill, or apply for utilities services for residential or commercial projects in covered areas.

Richland Soil and Water Conservation District Promotes natural resource conservation through education, demonstrations, technical and financial assistance. Plans programs for the physical, social and economic growth, development and redevelopment of the unincorporated area of the County. Self-represented Procedures Review Master-in-Equity self-represented procedures.

Guides development in accordance with existing and future needs, suitability, and the Comprehensive Plan. Vehicle taxes are due each year by the last day of the month your decal expires. Office of Small Business Opportunity Helping small businesses grow and compete through guidance and resources.

Budget and Strategic Management Supporting County departments through financial guidance and managing awarded grant funds. Advises County Council on development, maintenance and operation of Jim Hamilton-L. B.

Owens Airport (CUB) and promotes aviation in Richland County. Promoting stormwater drainage and water quality enhancement. Partner with the County to develop neighborhood plans and coordinate improvement projects.

Protects the County's natural, historical, and cultural resources and promotes nature-based recreation and eco- and heritage tourism Neighborhood Enrichment Grants Provides funds for neighborhood-based groups for beautification, safety, health, leisure, and engagement projects. Richland County Neighborhood Council Provides residents an information exchange and advises local officials on issues affecting communities.

Find resources for teachers to inspire students on conservation topics. Residents can request free vegetable, herb and wildflower seeds. An annual conference by the Richland County Neighborhood Improvement Program to learn what you can do as an individual to improve your neighborhood.

Provides down payment and closing cost assistance to eligible first-time homebuyers purchasing a home in unincorporated Richland County. Richland County is a leader in transparent financial reporting.