597.301—Selection factors for designation of nominated urban areas.
(a) Selection factors.
In choosing among nominated urban areas eligible for designation, the Secretary shall consider:
(1)
The effectiveness of the strategic plan in accordance with the key principles and evaluative criteria set out in § 597.201 ;
(2)
The effectiveness of the assurances made pursuant to § 597.200(a)(2) that the strategic plan will be implemented;
(3)
The extent to which an application proposes activities that are creative and innovative in comparison to other applications; and
(4)
Such other factors established by HUD. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the degree of need demonstrated by the nominated area for assistance under this part. If other factors are established by HUD, a Federal Register notice will be published identifying such factors, along with an extension of the application due date if necessary.
(b) Geographic diversity.
HUD, in its discretion, may choose to select for designation a lower rated approvable application over a higher rated application in order to increase the level of geographic diversity of designations approved under this part.