11 Timely and Meaningful Public Participation, , 2605(b)(12) - Assurance 12, 2605(c)(2)
11.1 How did you obtain input from the public in the development of your LIHEAP plan? Select all that apply. Note: Tribes do not need to hold a public hearing but must ensure participation through other means. Tribal Council meeting(s) Public Hearing(s) Draft Plan posted to website and available for comment Hard copy of plan is available for public view and comment Comments from applicants are recorded Request for comments on draft Plan is advertised Stakeholder consultation meeting(s) Comments are solicited during outreach activities Other - Describe: N/A Public Hearings, 2605(a)(2) - For States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico Only 11.2 List the date and location(s) that you held public hearing(s) on the proposed use and distribution of your LIHEAP funds? Date Event Description 1 09/09/2025 Community Action LIHEAP State Plan Public Hearing Virtual 11.3. How many parties commented on your plan at the hearing(s)? 1 11.4 Summarize the comments you received at the hearing(s). Comments received during the public hearings, and submitted in writing outside of the public hearing, expressed support for the FY2026 LIHEAP State plan. The State Association, Wildfire, provided comments on behalf of the Community Action Agencies stating that the plan reflects careful attention to the needs of vulnerable households, maintains consistent funding allocations, and introduces improvements that strengthen program delivery. They particularly acknowledge the restoration of authority for CAAs to adjudicate applications directly, which we believe will improve efficiency, responsiveness, and local flexibility in serving households.Wildfire and the CAAs are grateful for the ongoing partnership with DES and the opportunity to provide input in shaping this plan. They remain committed to partnering with DES to ensure LIHEAP protects the health and safety of households across Arizona. 11.5 What changes did you make to your LIHEAP plan as a result of public participation and solicitation of input? Sections 15.1 a and b have been updated to reflect the formal training that is provided Annually, in addition to As Needed. Section 1.13 was updated to clarify means to submit LIHEAP applications. Sections 12.4 and 12.5 were updated to clarify the means to submit LIHEAP grievances, client notifications of grievance rights, and timelines related to submitting grievances. If any of the above questions require further explanation or clarification that could not be made in the fields provided, attach a document with said explanation here.