HousingPartnershipMinutes2006NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
Minutes
January 11, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Fran Volkmann, Alan Ells, Richard
Abuza, Yvonne Freccero, Mari Gottdiener, Peg Murray, Betsy Siersma. Also
present, Joann Campbell and Patrick McCarthy from Valley CDC & Wayne Feiden.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. No
one was present for the public comment period. It was asked that last months
minutes reflect that Member Valenti was the one doing the research for the Elder
Vision article. Member Murray made a motion to approve the minutes as
amended, Member Siersma seconded the motion. The vote in favor was
unanimous.
Sub-Committee Reports
Implementation: Chair Abuza reported that representatives of Valley CDC had
come to present a proposal for the renovation of 46-48 School Street ( 4 units).
In order to provide a required local contribution, they are requesting $25,000 of
CDBG funds from the City. Chair Abuza summarized the proposal, saying it has
the wholehearted endorsement of the Sub-Committee.
Ms. Campbell said the State funding sources require a minimum of 5 units, so
they were not able to secure resources for a renovation. They did an
investigation of adding additional units and are proposing to increase the number
from 4-8. This will require a comprehensive permit. Chair Abuza noted there
had been some discussion about bedroom sizes. He thought there was a priority
for larger sizes. Current data collection will hopefully shed light on this aspect.
Valley is proposing 2 studios, 4 one bedrooms and 2 two bedrooms and
Ms. Campbell said they would be approaching Smith College for an additional
local match.
Member Gottdiener asked about the length of the affordability restriction. Ms.
Campbell said the Affordable Housing Trust Fund requires 40 years and the
Housing Development Support Program carries a 30 year restriction. Given the
charge of the CDC, the housing would probably be affordable in perpetuity, she
added. The total project cost will be roughly 1.3 million dollars. The building will
be entirely renovated and 4 units will be added.
Member Abuza made a motion to recommend to the Mayor that the City allocate
$25,000 to the renovation and expansion of 46-48 School Street. Member
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Gottdiener seconded the motion. The vote in favor of the motion was
unanimous. Member Volkmann recused herself. The Sub-Committee will revisit
their discussions of Inclusionary Zoning and strategies to assist small landlords at
their next meeting.
Communication Issues: Chair Ackelsberg addressed the members reaction to
what they felt was a late report on the negotiations with the Hampton Court
developer. Some feel this is a pattern, as they also felt "out of the loop" on the
Meadowbrook project. It was summarized that with 2 of the larger affordable
housing projects in the City, they were not informed to the extent they felt was
appropriate, given their charge. It was agreed that an annual review of the
subsidized inventory would be conducted so members are aware of potential unit
losses. It was noted that when asked, the Mayor does attend to provide updates.
Members may want this to occur more often.
Planning Sub-Committee: Chair Siersma reported that Member Valenti was
working on the Elder vision Article. Their next meeting (to be held January 30,
2006) will be with local housing search workers to ascertain information
regarding the types of units their clients need.
Planning Activity Update
Planning Director Feiden came in to update the Partnership on the City's
comprehensive planning process. Chair Ackelsberg began with a summary of the
last Steering Committee meeting held January 9th• The survey form that will be
distributed through the City Census has been finalized. It seems that this is
something that can be done annually. She is excited about the format and the
possibility for on-going input. The focus groups are scheduled for March. The
questions for those sessions are being finalized. Representatives on the Steering
Committee were asked to go back to their groups to find out what they really
want to know/learn from the sessions. She asked the Partnership members what
questions they wanted to pose to encourage people to think about housing
issues. The list of proposed questions was reviewed.
Mr. Feiden said that the current activities include the survey, data collection, the
focus groups and the Op Ed pieces that will be placed in the Gazette. The topics
will be the economy, equity and the environment. Chair Ackelsberg said that the
raw data being collected by the consultants would need to be formatted for the
focus groups. The AIA Sustainability Report will be finished next week, the PVPC
data piece should be received by the end of January and the work on the zoning
tools should be completed in early March.
Chair Ackelsberg stated that the Partnership could educate people with the
questions asked. She wondered how to take best advantage of this "teachable
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moment" and frame the conversation for people who do not think about the
issues as much as they do. Member Volkmann wondered about the value of
asking people questions without giving them any factual context. The Chair
responded that was the role of the briefing papers that are also proposed.
Director Feiden replied that in total there are 5 Op Ed pieces planned; (the 3
mentioned previously), one introductory in nature and another written by the
architect in charge of the Sustainability report. He said the AIA report and Grow
Smart Northampton would also be made available on the web. Member
Volkmann said most people won't take the time to read the reports and suggested that each focus group begin with a 3 minute presentation on relevant
facts, such as housing demographics, trends and issues, presented with no
advocacy attached. Director Feiden said the Op Ed pieces could do that also.
Members suggested that fact sheets be assembled on average wages, jobs,
population trends and incomes. Director Feiden said that the "Community
Indicators" report is being updated by PVPC. A summary sheet could be created
and used as a common point of reference. If the data is compared to what is
needed and the disconnect is visible, it will be easier to garner support. Members
picked questions 17,18a, 19, 20, 22 and 25 as being relevant to propose to the
focus groups. Additional ideas should be emailed to Director Feiden, as the
February meeting will be too late.
New Business
Member Gottdiener said she is drafting an informational piece relative to the
implementation of the Community Preservation Act.
Zoning Tool Update: Director Feiden said the consultant would be reviewing staff
generated language for Inclusionary Zoning, Transfer of Development Rights and
40R Overlay Zones. Chair Ackelsberg asked that rather than the Partnership
reviewing specific language, that the consultant prepare 1-2 pgs. outlining the
logic, advantages and disadvantages of the approach. Director Feiden added that
internal discussions need to be held in order to better inform the consultant. It
was agreed that a separate meeting to pursue this topic should be scheduled.
Members set it for Friday January 13th at 1 :30 p.m. Member Abuza made a
motion to continue the Partnership meeting to that date and time. The motion
was seconded by Member Freccero; the vote in favor of the continuation was
unanimous.
Green Street Update: Director Feiden said the Educational Overlay zone was
on hold until the new Council was seated. March 9th a joint meeting with the
Planning Board and the Ordinance Committee will be held.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:35 p.m.
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Submitted by, Peg Keller
NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
Minutes
February 8, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Yvonne Freccero, Alan Ells, Betsy Siersma, Linda Valenti, Peg Murray. Also present, Peg Keller, staff and 3
interested citizens.
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. Member Murray
made a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, as amended
by Member Volkmann (in absentia). The motion was seconded by Member Ells
and the vote in favor was unanimous; Member Valenti abstained.
Public Comment Period: An unidentified member of the public made a
comment about the need for Smith College to build housing for its employees.
Update on January 13, 2006 Meeting with Planning Director Feiden/
Chair Ackelsberg asked members for an update on that informal session.
Members said it was informative, helpful and they suggested that it happen
again to continue to enhance their knowledge about zoning tools and techniques.
Sub-Committee Reports
Implementation/ Member Murray reported that they reviewed the completed
application from Valley CDC regarding the School Street project. A few items
need to be followed up on and a letter was sent. The request from Mass. Non
Profit Housing Association for CDBG funds for Pines Edge is being pursued. There
was a discussion about the "tone" and content of the City communications to
multi-family property owners and the mailings are being reviewed. Member
Valenti said there are two forms and she will fax Peg K. the second one.
Planning/ Chair Siersma reported that Member Valenti is working on the article
for Elder Vision. This came from a desire of the Committee to assist elderly rental
property owners. They are investigating doing a series of articles and addressing
such topics as lead paint, legal aid, repair and handicap accessibility programs,
tenant selection and eviction, and the building and sanitary code. Member
Valenti is gathering information from the Housing Authority and Valley CDC.
Information collected could be placed on the City's website. HAP produces a
landlord workbook and conducts workshops. The guides cost $35, but one could
be purchased and placed in the Council on Aging. Member Ells mentioned that
Mass. Legal Services has a website with relevant information and the housing
courts offer legal assistance as well.
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Chair Siersma reviewed the information gathered from the meeting with the
housing providers. There is a plan for a follow-up meeting with the Housing
Authority.
Community Planning Update
Chair Ackelsberg said work was nearing completion on the op ed pieces that will
be circulated shortly. She will send them around via email for final comment. She
said the questions for the focus groups would be finalized at next weeks Steering
Committee meeting. She mentioned that the GIS program at Smith College has
tremendous capabilities and would entertain local project requests. Member
Murray suggested re-examining the local needs assessment to identify possible
projects. Chair Ackelsberg said she would talk to Mr. Feiden about the best way
to interact with Ms. Netter, the consultant hired to review zoning language
drafted by the Planning Department. It was noted that the data base materials
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission utilized for their contract could be helpful to
the City.
Membership
Representation from the Housing Authority and the Council on Aging were
discussed. Because Maureen Carney is on the Housing Authority Board of
Commissioners, it could serve dual purposes if she were appointed as the City
Council representative to the Housing Partnership (to replace Rita Sleiman).
Chair Ackelsberg will pursue this with the Mayor.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:40 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Peg Keller
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NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes
March 20, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Alan Ells, Fran Volkmann, Mari Gottdiener, Linda Valenti, Peg Murray, Betsy Siersma, Richard Abuza. Also present,
Wayne Feiden, Planning Director and Peg Keller, staff.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. There was no one present for the public comment period.
Community Planning Update
Two focus groups have been held to date. Chair Ackelsberg and Member Volkmann were
at the first one and Member Abuza attended the second. The Chair stated she was
impressed with the participants. Mr. Feiden said the process was going smoothly. Due to
the amount of information being generated that will require processing, the time line
has been lengthened. Members were encouraged to attend future meetings. The wrap
up sessions are scheduled for June 20th and 21st.
Workshop Report
Chair Ackelsberg reported on what she had learned at the session entitled "How to Run a Good Public Hearing". This was a workshop conducted for Northampton Boards and
Committees, held on February 9th• She stressed that members need to pay attention to
the nature of discussions that occur via email. It was her understanding that any matter
that asks for responsive dialogue must occur at a publicly posted meeting. Discussion
followed. It was agreed that if she has already been given permission to draft a letter at
a meeting, then circulation of the letter and resulting comments could occur through
email. It is safer to direct all comments to staff for consolidation, as opposed to
interaction with other members.
Membership
Chair Ackelsberg has asked City Council President Bardsley if Councilor Carney could be
appointed as the Council representative to the Housing Partnership. As Ms. Carney is
also a member of the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, that would provide the
Partnership with a link there, as well. The Chair will follow up.
Power Point Presentation
The remainder of the evening was spent viewing a slide show presented by Mr. Feiden,
the Planning Director. This was followed by a discussion of Smart Growth zoning tools
and techniques.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller
NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes
April 26, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Mari Gottdiener, Fran Volkmann,
Richard Abuza, Betsy Siersma. Also present, Peg Keller, staff.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m. No one
was present for the public comment period.
Comprehensive Planning Process Update
Chair Ackelsberg reported that the Council on Aging focus group is being held
this evening. The final session will be the one sponsored by Casa Latina, to be
held next week. Peg will email location information for those members wishing to attend. Discussion followed regarding how the Partnership is supposed to have
input into this City planning process. Interns in the Planning Department are
summarizing the information gathered on newsprint from the focus groups.
When that information is made available, it may be easier for members to see
overall themes that could lead to Partnership activity and advocacy. Op ed
columns and briefing papers were discussed as community education vehicles
that could be created by Partnership members.
The Chair noted that she is taking a Geographic Information Systems course at
Hampshire College. For a class project, she has undertaken mapping 2005
condominium conversions as compared to rents in 1999. She is hoping to identify properties on a map that were converted, to ascertain if properties with higher
rents or lower rents went condo.
Member Gottdiener asked again about the role of the Partnership, expressing her
desire to be involved in hands on tasks. Chair Ackelsberg said we could either
wait for the zoning analysis and focus group results, or study what exists and be
proactive about identifying issues.
Sub-Committee Reports
Planning: Chair Siersma reported on the findings of the group, based on
conversations they have had with an area rental agent, housing providers and a
representative from the Housing Authority. Information provided by the Housing
Authority and Planning Department was reviewed. She said that the overall need
for individuals coming out of homelessness, and single adults with very low
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incomes, is for enhanced SRO units. Her committee will be waiting to see what
comes out of the City's planning process to identify future tasks.
Implementation: Chair Abuza referred in brief to some issues he outlined in an
earlier email message. He has become Chair (by default) and feels the
Committee could benefit from a new chair and additional membership. He feels
he has repeated the issues that are of concern to him many times and would like
to continue to provide input into the discussions, but does not want to organize
the work of the committee. He is vitally interested in activities that could provide
support to local landlords.
Future Tasks
Chair Ackelsberg returned to the discussion of how the Partnership should
proceed relative to the local planning process. She said that the group had not
reassessed its goals and objectives since Member Volkmann was chair. She said
it would be timely to review the materials that were generated at that time. They
will go out with the next mailing. She agreed that it was difficult to bolster
committee membership with the Partnerships overall numbers down.
Discussion followed regarding possible Partnership roles. Member Volkmann said
the role of advocacy is very important and members should be present at all of
these venues to keep affordable housing issues in the discussion mix. She also
noted that it would be important to receive an update from former Chair Jack
Hornor regarding the development at Hospital Hill. Although no longer a
Partnership member, Mr. Hornor asked to remain as the liaison on the CAC and
agreed to report regularly. This is important due to the significant new housing
being created there. Chair Ackelsberg will contact him.
In summary, it was agreed that members should review the updated Community
Indicators report recently prepared by the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission.
Members should study the housing section (that had been drafted with input
from the Partnership) and come prepared to discuss what that information
means for future activity. Peg will also send out the Goals and Objectives from
2003 and 2004. The May meeting will be devoted to identifying possible future
Partnership directions based on that analysis.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 7:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller
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NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
MEETING MINUTES
MAY 10, 2006
Members Present: Chair Martha Ackelsberg, Betsy Siersma, Yvonne Freccero, Fran Volkmann,
Alan Ells, Peg Murray. Also present: Michael Owens.
Cal to Order: The meeting was called to order at approximately 6:30 p.m.
Public Comment
No members of the public were present; no public comment was offered.
Minutes
Member Volkman moved to approve the minutes of the previous meeting; motion passed
unanimously.
Reports
State Hospital Citizen Advisory Committee
Martha spoke with Jack Hornor who reported that the CAC is meeting about once a year. Jack
stated that he would respond in writing as to where he sees things at this time.
Martha requested that staff ask Wayne to report on and discuss the status of the state hospital
project at the next Partnership meeting.
Sustainable Northampton
Both Martha and Fran attended the recent sustainability meeting with Casa Latina clients and tenants of the Northampton Housing Authority. Feedback from this session will be tabulated and
added to the data from the nine (9) focus groups. Major areas of concern expressed at this
session were public transportation, housing and jobs.
The City survey sent out with the local census indicates strong support for affordable housing. On
June 20th and 21 st the City reports back to the public the results of the focus groups and survey; all
the aggregate data will be summarized at these two meetings.
Members discussed the value of including the community indicators report and economic report as
part of the presentations to be made in June. On Monday the 22nd of May a meeting will be held at
City Council Chambers to formulate the June information package.
Community Indicators Report
Members discussed the major themes on the PVPC indicators report including low wages, creating
jobs with livable wages; the lack of affordable housing and the lack of housing in the middle rage of 1
prices, which are few, and far between. Members noted that page 25 of the report had many telling statistics including trends in condominium sales.
Members also discussed the state benchmark goal for communities to have at least 10% affordable housing. Some members felt that this was an artificial number and the goal for
affordable housing should actually be much higher.
Member also discussed affordable units that are coming on line and units that are being lost. Members requested that Peg Keller provide information of the overall loss/ gain of units at the next
Partnership meeting in order to provide members with a better sense of where the City is trending in regards to affordable units (both rental and homeownership).
Martha asked members to give some thought to how the Partnership could use its "bully pulpit" to
raise concerns and interest regarding affordable housing. The apparent "over housing" of elders was also discussed along with potential ways to preserve this housing as affordable when seniors
pass on.
Membership
Peg Murray requested that staff prepare an information packet on the Partnership for Casa Latina. Staff persons at Casa and/ or clients of Casa may be interested in serving on the Partnership but
need additional information. Members suggested sending the Partnership powers and duties
outlined within the City ordinance as well as the most recent brochure to the folks at Casa Latina.
There was also discussion of getting a City Councilor on the Partnership as well as the status of the appointment of Gordon Shaw. Members felt that getting a blurb in the newspaper in search of members would also be worth while. Betsy noted that this was how she learned of the Partnership
and became involved.
Announcements
Access to Justice Commission -Alan noted an upcoming event in Springfield on Friday from 9am to 1 pm. A panel discussion will take place regarding the barriers faced by low-income persons in
accessing the justice system.
New Ventures Zoning for Affordable Housing -An aspect of this presentation dealt with the
regional aspect of affordable housing production and retention. Members expressed an interest to
open a regular dialogue with the Amherst housing group and possibly affordable housing
supporters and advocates active in Easthampton.
Next Step Collaborative -Next Step will meet tomorrow and the agenda looks very interesting.
Member Freccero stated that she will be attending tomorrow's next step meeting.
Respectfully submitted
Mto 05-15-06 2
NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
Minutes
June 14, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Richard Abuza, Yvonne Freccero, Fran
Volkmann, Betsy Siersma, Peg Murray. Also present Wayne Feiden, Planning Director
and Peg Keller, staff .
Call to Order:
The meeting convened at 6:35 p.m. Member Freccero made a motion to approve last
months minutes. The motion was seconded by Member Siersma; the vote in favor was unanimous.
Updates
Sustainable Northampton/ Chair Ackelsberg said this phase of the public process is
coming to an end. The wrap up sessions are being held next week. Member Volkmann
will attend Tuesday and Chair Ackelsberg will attend Wednesday. The Steering
Committee has been grappling with how to present the information gleaned from the 9
community meetings. Work articulating goals will continue into the fall and then actual
work putting the comprehensive plan together will commence.
Director Feiden said the process has been slowed down from the original schedule to
insure a comprehensive effort. The sessions next week will give people an opportunity
to confirm the conclusions and/or point out what might have been missed, as opposed
to taking additional input. Member Freccero said she is interested in the input from the
forum sponsored with Casa Latina. Peg will get those notes.
Northampton State Hospital Update/ A memo from Jack Hornor reported that the
Community Builders is moving ahead on the second phase of residential development.
The CDBG request has not changed but the site plan has. All are awaiting the demolition
of Old Main. TCB has hired a New Urbanism marketing firm to look at the demographics,
to see what types/sizes or units are in demand. The trend seems to be towards smaller
units. They are also rethinking the phasing, and may do market units next. Another firm
has been hired to re-examine the Master Plan. Wayne confirmed for the Chair that the
80-120% of area median income range is being considered. Those may be harder to
develop, given the lack of subsidy available. When the final outcomes of the
Sustainability Process are known, it may impact future development decisions. A
discussion of transportation and the Zip car ensued.
The work Wayne is doing with Edith Netter on zoning language has progressed slightly.
He has some comments back from her relative to the initial drafts, but he has yet to review them. Wayne assured the Partnership that they would have an opportunity to
weigh in, but did not want Ms. Netter to come out until things were farther along. He
will be submitting a 40R proposal to the State for technical review in the next few
months, however, if the public comments support that direction.
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Bedford Terrace/ Wayne reported that Smith College will start work when the City
Council approves the covenants. He said the affordability restrictions will be consistent
with the development agreement, but Smith will not sign the covenants until the zoning
overlay district is approved by City Council. The plan is 99 years of affordability and 26 units; two thirds at 60% of area median income and one third at 80%, 1 market rate
unit. We will want to get 40B credit for these units and will have the developer meet the
requirements that will guarantee credit for the City.
Mr. Feiden, in answer to a question by Member Abuza, said O'Connell Development will get the land for free and some funds from Smith, which is how they will be making the
units affordable. O'Connell will own and manage the units for the long term. The
project, which will involve renovation of the existing building and new construction of a
second building, will be filed with the Planning Board soon.
Hampton Court/ Mr. Feiden reported that the affordability agreement will be for 15
more years from now. They guarantee not to convert to condominiums for 5 years. If
they do convert, the loan will be repaid to the City. This forbearance agreement got the
City 15 more years of affordability.
School Street/ City Council has approved an easement needed by Valley CDC to move
this project forward. The comprehensive permit application is in process. Applications for
funding will be made soon. The due diligence on this project revealed issues with the
Northampton Area Land Trust. Legal assistance being provided to Valley will sort
through the current status and resolve some issues that will enable this project to
advance. There may be more longer term issues that will need to be resolved.
N.King Street/ Mr. James Harrity's proposal for a large development on N. King Street
was discussed. The plan includes affordable units. More information is needed prior to
an endorsement from the Partnership. A discussion about supporting accessory rental
apartments versus small condominium ownership units ensued and will be continued
next month. A monitoring agreement will also need to be created.
Membership/ Gordon Shaw will be recontacted to see if he is interested. Having
Maureen Carney represent the City Council may involve changing the meeting night.
This will be pursued. A request will be submitted to the Kimball Howes Volunteer Center
registry and an ad placed in the newspaper in the fall, in search of new members.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:25 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Peg Keller
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NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes
August 1, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Richard Abuza, Yvonne Freccero,
Alan Ells, Mari Gottdiener, Betsy Siersma. Also present Peg Keller, staff.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m.
Members discussed changing the meeting night for the remainder of the year. It
was agreed that the third Monday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. would be the new
meeting time.
Approval of Minutes: Member Freccero made a motion to approve the minutes of
the last meeting. The motion was seconded by Member Siersma and the vote in
favor was unanimous.
Sustainable Northampton Master Planning Process Update
Chair Ackelsberg reported she was not able to attend the last Steering
Committee meeting but she had an update from W. Feiden, Planning Director.
She circulated the draft goal statements that the Steering Committee had begun
to put together. Teri Anderson told her that more work would occur on the
visions and goals. The Chamber has offered to raise funds to hire a consultant to
do additional work synthesizing the comments received from the public forums.
When the Chair asked how the Partnership could be helpful at this juncture, Mr.
Feiden said that developing benchmarks would be beneficial. He said that
fleshing out the goal statements and identifying numerical values, time tables
and deadlines is the next step.
Towards that end, the members examined the vision statement addressing
Equity Goals. The other draft addresses Economy Elements. Members discussed
the bulleted items in the Equity piece that addressed housing concerns. The
items generated from the public forums were compared to the priorities
identified by the Planning Sub-Committee. It was agreed that we should invite
Valley CDC representatives to attend a meeting to address the item about
expanding the First Time Homebuyer Program. It would also be helpful to hear
the results of Valley's recently completed strategic planning process.
Discussion followed regarding how to include the Planning Sub-Committee goals
into the comprehensive planning process. The Sub-Committee priority needs are: •affordable housing for households earning 80-120% of area median
income•additional inventory of enhanced SRO units
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•capture of homes owned by elders into perpetually affordable stock
Discussion followed about linking elder homeowner units with first time
homebuyers. Member Abuza said finding an entity to administer such a program
has always been the stumbling block. It was suggested that Community
Preservation Act funds might be utilized for such a program. A preliminary list of
possible CPA projects was recorded on newsprint. A summary of the benchmark
discussion is as follows. (Bold lettering indicates work of the Steering Committee
and the italicized lettering shows the Partnership's preliminary thinking.)
4.Improve housing affordability to retain a diversity of residents.
Strategies and Actions:
a.Increase affordable housing options-both subsidized and market
rate.Additional potential at the State Hospital/ mixed income housing/ enhanced
SRO's and 80-120% affordable units✓ live/ work units
b.Retain current stock of public and private low-income housing.
Assistance to small landlords✓ creation of a supportive information network.Develop meaningful partnership with landlords to support preservation of
affordable rental units.
c.Expand first time homebuyer programs.
Research current status of program with Valley CDC Assess trends andregional market-Get report by 9/1 or invite to September meeting.
d.Address conversion of rental units to condominiums
Develop a NHP fact sheet based on the research already compiled. Show therate and trends/ what legal paths are available and provide information to
landlords.-Create fact sheet by the September meeting.
e.Create affordable live-work space to retain artists in the City.
Get zoning update on live/work space and home occupations. Support flexible
zoning to safely allow such uses.-Get update by September meeting. Request inclusion of fact sheet
on web-site.
f.ADD/ Preserve and create full range of mixed income housingdefined as affordable to those earning 30% or less to
120% of area median income
Sub-Committee Reports: Committees have not met, but will schedule in
August. Implementation will work on the condo conversion fact sheet and
Planning will continue working on the development of benchmarks.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller
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NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
Minutes
September 18, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Yvonne Freccero, Maureen Carney, Betsy Siersma, Peg Murray, Mari Gottdiener, Fran Volkmann. Also
present, Joann Campbell and Michele Morris, Valley Community Development
Corporation and Peg Keller, staff and Kathy Silva, interested citizen.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. She
welcomed our City Council representative, Maureen Carney and members
introduced themselves. No one desired to comment during the public comment
period.
First Time Homebuyer Program Update
One of the recommendations from the Sustainable Northampton public sessions
was to expand the first time homebuyer program. In order to better understand
the programs current operation, Joann Campbell, Director of the Valley CDC and
Michele Morris, the First Time homebuyer Counselor, were invited to attend the
meeting.Ms. Morris circulated a handout that described three facets of the
program; program services, outreach and evolution. Members read the handout.
Discussion followed.
Member Gottdiener asked how CPA funds could be used to assist the program.
Downpayment assistance and matching funds for affordable housing projects
was suggested. The need identified for the first time homebuyer program,
however, is on-going homeowner assistance. Ms. Morris said that affordable
homes are able to be found in Laurel Park and in the Ryan Road areas.
Homeowners are having increasing difficulty maintaining their homes, however.
Ms. Morris mentioned the Financial Literacy Program (through Florence Savings
Bank) that helps people prepare for ownership. Clients are looking for the
certificate earned by attending First Time Homebuyer workshops in order to
qualify for a Soft Second mortgage. A discussion of mortgage companies and the
lack of regulation ensued.
The question was raised, does the desire for "program expansion" translate into
greater availability of affordable homes, or additional program services or a
larger catchment area. It was noted that there is no potential for expansion with
CDBG funding, unless the program went into the public services category. CDBG
requires client referral to HOME units only.
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The issue of post purchase counseling was addressed. HAP does offer services. Workshops have been offered in the past, but have not been well attended. Ms.
Gottdiener suggested that local cable television programming might be a venue
for education. Peg Murray mentioned reverse mortgages. Ms. Morris said they
have been approached by lenders to hold classes on that practice, but due to its
complexity, they prefer to make referrals only. HAP's downpayment assistance
program, although available, is difficult to utilize.
It was noted that Valley is terminating their administration of the City's Housing
Rehabilitation Program this June. The program is time consuming and they no
longer have the staff capacity to do this work. The future of the program is
something the Housing Partnership and the CDBG Administrator will need to
discuss, soon. The representatives from Valley were thanked for their time and
good work. They left the meeting.
Sustainable Northampton Update
Chair Ackelsberg reported that in August, it was agreed that the City would look
for funding to hire a consultant to synthesize the public input and outsource the
writing of the plan. The scope of work was created in September. The hope is
that the Request for Proposals will be issued in October, with a quick response
deadline, with work to be completed in December. She said all efforts should be
made to continue to articulate the Partnership's concerns into the process.
Sub-Committee Reports
Planning/ Their charge was to establish benchmarks by which to measure the
goals, strategies and actions articulated in the Sustainable Northampton public
sessions. Chair Siersma distributed the Committee's work. Peg will try to get the number of SRO units lost and an update on SRO zoning. Peg will ask Michele
Morris to add some numbers to her program description, to address item c. and
Implementation will meet in October to address the condo conversion fact sheet.
Mass. Fair Housing Center Scope of Services
Peg reported on the activities she suggested for the agency's annual work plan.
This includes a session with local landlords on fair housing issues. It is scheduled
for October 24th• Peg also reported on her meeting with the Clerk Magistrate
relative to Housing Court procedures.
Approval of Minutes/ Member Gottdiener made a motion to approve the minutes
of the previous meeting. The motion was seconded by Member Freccero; the
vote to approve was unanimous in favor, with the abstention of Member Murray.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller
2
NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP Minutes
October 16, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Peg Murray, Maureen Carney, Fran
Volkmann, Yvonne Freccero, Mari Gottdiener, Richard Abuza, Alan Ells, new member Gordon Shaw. Also present, Peg Keller, staff.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. No one was
present for the public comment. Members introduced themselves to Member Shaw. He
was welcomed. Member Freccero made a motion to approve the minutes, as amended
by Member Murray. The motion was seconded by Member Volkmann; the motion to
approve was unanimous in favor.
Sustainable Northampton Update/ Chair Ackelsberg reported that the Steering Committee did not meet in October. At the September meeting the scope of services for
the Consultant was finalized. It has been sent out for bids. The time table asks for
Report completion by early next year.
Continuation of Discussion/ Goals and Objectives from Comp. Planning Process
Peg reposted the newsprint and members reviewed progress.
Highlights include the following:
1.) Goal Mixed use zoning at the State Hospital for 80-120% of area median
income households/ Status: There is some discussion about increasing density
on-site and creating a 40R zone. It was noted that this income range is difficult
to produce due to the lack of subsidy. Jack Hornor will be asked to present after
the next CAC meeting.
2.) Goal Assistance to landlords/ discussed briefly. Will devote November meeting
to fleshing this out.
3.) Goal Research First Time Homebuyer program/ Valley did presentation, will
ask for data.
4.) Goal Fact sheet on condo conversions. No progress, except summary by
Richard.
5.) Goal Live work spaces/ Have zoning summary from Carolyn.
6.) Goal Create full range of mixed income housing, i.e. 30 % to 120% of area
median income including enhanced SRO's.
After some discussion it was agreed that the December meeting would be spent
discussing how to create these housing types, with the developers who do this work.
Invitations will be extended to representatives of the Northampton Housing Authority,
Valley CDC, HAP, ServiceNet, the Department of Mental Health and the Mental Health
Association. Issues relative to funding, management and provision of support services
will be discussed.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller 1
NORTHAMPTON HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
Minutes
November 20, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Peg Murray, Maureen Carney,
Richard Abuza, Gordon Shaw, Fran Volkmann, Betsy Siersma, Alan Ells. Also
present, Peg Keller, staff.
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. No one
was present for the public comment period. Member Volkmann made a motion to
approve the minutes of the past meeting, seconded by Member Murray. They
were approved as submitted.
Sustainable Northampton Update
Chair Ackelsberg said the Steering Committee met last week. Two proposals had
been received to complete the final phases of the Comprehensive Plan. Neither
met the requirements the Committee had set. Other parties will be notified and
the project will be re-bid. Responses will be due mid-January, with the hope that
the project will be completed in April or May.
It was noted that members wanted to hear from Jack Hornor, regarding the
State Hospital redevelopment status, at the December meeting.
Smith Affordable Housing Fund/ Advisory Committee
Members reviewed a memo from Member Volkmann. She had articulated some
issues that have arisen within the Committee relative to the review of affordable
housing projects to be funded with the Smith monies ( created from the SNAP
efforts).
In reviewing the School Street project request submitted by Valley CDC, one of
the issues raised was how to "count" the units created relative to Smith's
commitment for replacement housing and the funds they have obligated. The
Committee had agreed to support the project and recommend to the College
that it be funded. The request was for $200,000 and Smith wanted credit for 4
units. Member Volkmann referred back to the SNAP proposal that recommended
DHCD guidelines be utilized in defining creation/replacement costs. The ballpark
range according to DHCD is $200,000 per unit/ Member Volkmann thought, based on that, that Smith should be credited for no more than 2 units. More
problematic, is that the Committee has no criteria for defining replacement
activity in general, being that the Development Agreement appears to have
superceded the SNAP proposal. She said that now that she is leaving the
Housing Partnership (December will be her last meeting), her replacement will
need to grapple with these issues. It will be important for that person to have a
sense of the Partnership's expectations.
1
Member Abuza agreed that this was a relevant issue for the Partnership, as the
Smith activity is important to the affordable housing arena, as is the State
Hospital. Members then discussed the meeting that the Mayor had attended at
which she mentioned the possibility of a Memorandum of Agreement. This could
confirm that a member of the Housing Partnership would be a mandated position
on the Smith Affordable Housing Fund Advisory Committee.
Member Abuza made a motion for the Chair to write a (strongly worded) letter in
support of the creation of standards to insure that the Development Agreement
is a meaningful document. Member Ells seconded the motion. The vote in favor
of the motion was unanimous. Chair Ackelsberg will send the letter.
Elections/ will be held in December.
Landlord Assistance Ideas
After some brainstorming, it was decided that the Planning Sub-Committee
would take on the development of a program to assist landlords in 2007.
Ideas mentioned included the following: •Tone of City Communications/ appreciative, not punitive•Web-Site with Resources and Links•An Appreciation Event•Programs: Housing Rehab, Lead Paint Abatement, Handicap
Accessibility/ADA, Fair Housing Laws, Tenant/Landlord Mediation•Mayor Communication to City Departments, i.e. Board of Health, Fire
Dept. ,Building Inspection / Help not hinder•Early Intervention re: tenant and landlord interaction around problems
Letters go out from the Assessors and Registrars office to the targeted landlord
population. Peg will find out when the letters go out. Member Shaw agreed to be
on the Planning Committee. Chair Siersma will schedule a meeting after the first
of the year.
Grove Street Inn
Peg updated members on the need to rehab the Grove Street Inn. Members
suggested ways to get volunteer labor. A grant source is needed to do an
architectural feasibility analysis to determine whether the building should be
rehabbed or a new facility constructed, or some plan in between.
December Meeting/ will be a "thank you" pot luck to acknowledge the tenure
of Fran Volkmann, who is resigning. Peg will try to line up housing developers to
discuss SRO and Safe Havens housing.
Adjourn/ The meeting was concluded at 8:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller
2
Northampton Housing Partnership
Minutes
December 18, 2006
Members Present: Martha Ackelsberg, Chair, Gordon Shaw, Mari Gottdiener,
Fran Volkmann, Maureen Carney, Richard Abuza. Also present, Linda Valenti and
M.J. Adams of Habitat for Humanity, Councilor Michael Bardsley, and Peg Keller,staff. (Meeting was held at the King Street Fire Station).
Call to Order: Chair Ackelsberg called the meeting to order at 7: 10 p.m. She
introduced Councilor Bardsley who wanted to address the Partnership about the
West Street relocation effort.
West Street Relocation
Councilor Bardsley has heard from several residents being displaced by the Smith
College expansion. It appears there is much confusion about what will be offered
at Bedford Terrace and whether or not the units are in fact affordable. He
articulated some issues that Chair Ackelsberg agreed to follow up on. She
circulated a draft letter to the Mayor she had created to address concerns
Member Volkmann had raised about the Housing Replacement Fund
implementation. Councilor Bardsley expressed his appreciation to Member
Volkmann for her years of service and invaluable contribution.
Pioneer Valley Habitat Presentation
Linda Valenti and MJ Adams then presented a power point slide show of their
recent Habitat trip to India. They, along with Steven Ferrari, traveled to India for
an International Build where 250 homes were constructed in a week. They
narrated their experience. Members thanked them for such a great presentation
and the inspiration ! !
Thank you to Fran
Members expressed their appreciation to Fran Volkmann, who has opted not to
be reappointed for another term on the Partnership. They thanked her for her
work on moving the tasks of the Partnership forward and for all her work on
SNAP (Smith Northampton Affordability Partnership) and the Fund Advisory
Committee, as well as Sustainable Northampton and the Planning Board.
She will be greatly missed! Thank you, Fran.
Adjourn/ The meeting concluded at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Peg Keller