eefland, receiving federal revitalization money is not a "racket" IMO, but a way for cities such as your's to access funds to bring targeted areas back by building/rehabbing the infrasturcture and commercial, but mostly residential structures so the areas revitalize. While I don't think the Country Club or the residential lot development would quailfy, the fact that US govt. funding is going on is a major postitive factor for the long term revitalization of the town that you especially should be happy about. I have worked in a local government's Housing department and have seen the effects first hand and know it's effects. HUD has strict guidelines in place to prevent abuse or corruption by local govt. officials and their approved contractors as well. No one wants the wraith of HUD...believe me!