SDC defends financial accuracy before funding appeal hearing

The Social Development Commission (SDC) held an emergency meeting to discuss its future as a community action agency. The board faces a critical hearing on April 4 with the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families. If they lose this designation, SDC will miss out on funding from the Community Services Block Grant, which supports low-income residents. The board was surprised by a letter from the department that arrived last Friday. The letter criticized SDC for providing inaccurate financial information and for not meeting certain state and federal requirements. Jorge Franco, SDC's board chair, expressed frustration over the situation and said SDC has been working hard to meet the department's needs. Some commissioners, however, felt unprepared and unsure about the allegations raised in the letter. They want to review all the details before defending SDC's position at the hearing. One commissioner voiced the need to clarify SDC's financial standing to gain public support. Franco mentioned that SDC spent significant time and money to comply with the department's demands. They believed they were in good standing based on previous communications. SDC's executive director, Diane Robinson, plans to share records that counter the department's claims before the hearing. The public is invited to attend the April 4 hearing, which will take place at the Milwaukee State Office Building.