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ConsolidatedPlanActionPlan2015-2019 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 1 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Executive Summary ES-05 Executive Summary - 24 CFR 91.200(c), 91.220(b) 1. Introduction The City of Northampton is pleased to submit to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development the Annual Action Plan and Five Year Consolidated Plan for FY2015-2020. This document contains a needs assessment gleaned from a variety of data sources, citizen input, targeted consultations and a short and long term strategic plan. Although the amount of Community Development Block Grant funds allocated to the City continues to decrease, our community remains committed to providing high quality services to those most in need in Northampton. 2. Summary of the objectives and outcomes identified in the Plan Needs Assessment Overview The City of Northampton, through the citizen participation process, targetted consultations and data analysis, has identified fourteen areas of priority need that will be addressed over the next five years. Those priority needs are as follows: Homelessness prevention, support for the emergency shelter system, creation of new rental housing for individuals, creation of new rental housing for families, preservation of existing rental stock, housing rehabilitation for homeownership units, affordable homeownership opportunities for families, housing for at-risk and special populations, economic development activities focused on economic empowerment and income maximization, housing support services for those at risk of homelessness, addressing basic needs such as food, shelter and health care, elimination of slums and blight to facilitate development of new housing and economic opportunities, improvements to public facilities and public infrastructure. The City will allocate CDBG funds to the extent they are available and support efforts to leverage those funds to operate successful programs and bring projects to fruition. 3. Evaluation of past performance The City’s Community and Economic Development Office reviewed the activities, goals and outcomes from the previous Consolidated Plan. With the final payment of the senior center debt service paid in the previous program year, the City will have the latitude to add new programs. This evaluation, added to feedback received during the meetings held for the Consolidated Plan process, gives a clearer picture Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 2 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) of activities and goals to accomplish over the next five years. High priority projects were completed and the public services grantees provided much needed social services to the low and moderate income households in Northampton. Accomplishments as of December 31, 2014 for program year 2014-2015 include: • Final payment of debt service obligation for the construction of a full-service Senior Center was made this program year. The balance remaining on the obligation will be paid by the City. • Demolition was completed at 23 Laurel Street. This was an abandoned and dilapidated farm house on a parcel owned by the Northampton Housing Authority. Removal of this property eliminated a neighborhood blight and will allow for future development of affordable homeownership. • Small business technical assistance was provided to 6 new businesses and 4 existing businesses by the Valley CDC. Assistance included: support with preparation of business plans and financial projections, marketing and access to financing. • Valley CDC administered a homeownership program providing residents education in both attaining and sustaining affordable homeownership. Referrals to HOME-funded opportunities and down payment assistance grants were provided. • Twelve social service agencies provided services to 4,725 low and moderate income residents. Assistance included: outreach to and advocacy for Latino households; housing support services for residents in SRO's; adult basic education, computer and employment training for immigrants; legal assistance for eviction prevention; soup kitchen, food pantry and emergency shelter operational assistance. Final details of accomplishments and analysis of performance will be reported in the CAPER. 4. Summary of citizen participation process and consultation process Citizen input for community planning is on-going throughout the year. Monthly meetings of the Northampton Housing Partnership, the Next Step Collaborative and the Community Preservation Committee locally provide regular venues for information exchange. On the regional level, the Individual Services Committee, the Family Services Committee and the Committee on Unaccompanied Youth meet monthly gathering service providers from all 4 Western Mass. counties through the Network to End Homelessness. The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission's Regional Housing Plan Implementation and Fair Housing committees meet quarterly, as does the Network's Leadership Council and Committee on Housing Sex Offenders. The Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness also meets quarterly, strategizing on how to break down State agency silos that impede holistic service delivery. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 3 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Specifically for the preparation of the ConPlan and Annual Action plan, discussions on priority community needs took place at all local meetings and several Network Committee meetings held between January 1 and May 8, 2015. Two public hearings were held with outreach to the broader community and 11 targeted consultations were conducted. The funds for the public services awards were allocated through a competitive application process during which 12 interviews were conducted by the AdHoc Public Services Review Committee in early March. All meetings were posted and open to the public. 5. Summary of public comments Renee Moss / Big Brothers Big Sisters was unable to attend the meeting but e-mailed this comment: “As always, I think the need for services for children and youth are very important. Our waiting list continues to grow with Northampton children who are low income and in need of mentors. Most referrals are from other agencies or schools. I think it is important to provide services for families facing challenges that are the results of poverty, mental illness, histories of domestic violence, etc. The children and youth are the victims of the economic and social disparity we see in communities like Northampton. Quality activities for after-school time have the potential to even the playing field and break these cycles and also provide respite for parents, many of of whom are raising their children on their own. No other comments were received. 6. Summary of comments or views not accepted and the reasons for not accepting them There were no comments that were not accepted. 7. Summary The impediments to affordable housing access in Northampton relate to cost burden and lack of availability. With the City of Northampton being included in the Springfield Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area the fair market rents allowed are not high enough for landlords to participate in the program. Rental assistance is needed for low and moderate income households to afford rental rates in Northampton's strong housing market. The City will support efforts to create new units with rental subsidies and support services to insure viable tenancies. Through public service grantee awards, the City will support efforts to maintain the safety net for those most challenged in our community. The City is committed to securing funding where possible and facilitate venues where coordination and collaboration can insure the most efficient and effective utilization of those resources. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 4 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The Process PR-05 Lead & Responsible Agencies 24 CFR 91.200(b) 1. Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source. Agency Role Name Department/Agency Lead Agency NORTHAMPTON CDBG Administrator Community and Economic Development HOPWA Administrator HOME Administrator HOPWA-C Administrator Table 1 – Responsible Agencies Narrative Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information Mayor's Office City of Northampton Community and Economic Development Department Margaret Keller 413-587-1288 pkeller@northamptonma.gov Cam Leon 413-587-1286 cleon@northamptonma.gov Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 5 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) PR-10 Consultation - 91.100, 91.200(b), 91.215(l) 1. Introduction The City of Northampton is composed of dedicated professionals and volunteers working towards creating a city and region that is diverse, affordable and welcoming to all. Our area is known across the Commonwealth for being innovative, collaborative and results oriented. Beginning in 1997, the City of Northampton oversaw the largest Continuum of Care geography in the State in order to secure McKinney funding for regional programming. When 10 regional networks to end homelessness were created by the Commonwealth in 2005, western Massachusetts also responded to that challenge and created successful partnerships, brought in funding, secured grants and tackled the difficult issues. Ours is one of the few remaining regional networks and is supported by a line item in the State budget and private fundraising. The Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness was also one of the first, and one of the few that remain outside of the State and Federal level bodies. Our collaborations have staying power and enjoy the support of area legislators. Several pilot projects, such as the REACH Program and Secure Jobs Connect, originated here and became best practice models nationwide. Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction’s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)). The City of Northampton sponsors and participates in multiple venues that encourage exchange and collaboration. It has an active Housing Partnership (since 1990), Human Rights Commission, Community Preservation Committee, Social Services and Veterans Affairs City Council Committee, a Community Preservation Committee and an Affordable Housing Trust. It served as the lead agent for the Continuum of Care for 16 years and was instrumental in the formation of the Western Mass Network to End Homelessness. It participates in Valley CDCâ¿¿s support services provider meetings, the Inter-Faith Winter Emergency Shelter Program Management Committee and hosts monthly networking meetings with housing and homeless service providers called the Next Step Collaborative (meeting since 1994). The City has a fruitful working relationship with our local affordable housing development partner, Valley CDC and HAPHousing, the regional housing agency. Two housing partnership members also sit on the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners to facilitate coordination.Â The City administers 12-15 public service CDBG grants and maintains close working relationships with the grantees. The Department of Mental Health, the Veterans Administration, Soldier On and Eliot Homeless Services are present at most local and regional meetings and are active community partners. Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 6 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The City of Northampton, with regional partners, created the Three County Continuum of Care (Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden) and served as the lead agent from 1997 until 2012. The Hilltown Community Development Corporation now serves as the lead (reconfigured to include Berkshire, Franklin and Hampshire counties) and Northampton remains an active partner. The COC is tracking the homeless and their progress through the system via the ever evolving HMIS. The Western Mass Network to End Homelessness (Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties) has a committee system that CoC participants (Three County and Springfield/Hampden county) work through. There is an Individual Services Committee, Family Services Committee, Veteranâ¿¿s Committee, Unaccompanied Youth as well as Community Engagement and Data Collection. Committee meetings are rotated between Northampton and Springfield for easy access. It is served by a Leadership Council with broad geographic and affiliation diversity. Service providers participate in REACH (Regional Engagement and Assessment of the Chronically Homeless. REACH meetings are held monthly in all counties. Providers come together to discuss specific clients and conduct coordinated case management to locate permanent supported housing. The City awarded Highland Valley Elder Services a CDBG public services grant this year to identify and serve elders at risk of homelessness in the community. The Housing Partnership was awarded funds for a Community Housing Supportive Services Coordinator to work through a vendor agency to stabilize families facing eviction. Several CDBG public service grantees, operating programs for many years also focus on preventing homelessness. Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction's area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS The City of Northampton does not receive ESG funds directly from HUD. ESG funding for the 3-County Rural CoC is allocated by the MA Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through a competitive process. Two providers within the CoC receive funding. The application is submitted by Community Action, the CAP Agency, on behalf of Hampshire and Franklin Counties. DHCD solicits input from the CoC on funding priorities. As part of the CoC governance structure, the CoC engages in an annual discussion with the CoC membership about this application process and what needs should be prioritized. Funds in the past few years have been applied to Prevention Services due to the high number of homeless families in motels. State funding allocations are informed by the Point in Time counts and other data reports produced through HMIS. The CoC shares ESG monitoring duties with DHCD. The CoC HMIS administration is funded by HUD, through an annual McKinney renewal application process. HMIS policies and procedures were set up when that initial application went in, and is revised as needed when HUD data requirements change 2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 7 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Table 2 – Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization CASA LATINA, INC. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing Services-Elderly Persons Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Health Services-Education Services-Employment Neighborhood Organization What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Meeting held with Interim Board President and Board Members, Sherry Hall-Smith and Eneida Garcia on March 17th to discuss agency's strategic plan,board development,staffing capacity and consumer needs. Sole organization serving the Latino population in Hampshire County. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Center for Human Development Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services - Housing Services-Children Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-homeless Services-Health What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs - Families with children Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Meeting held with Jane Banks, Director of Homeless Services on March 27th. Discussion addressed SRO Outreach Project work in Northampton with individuals at risk of homelessness, new project to serve families at risk of homelessness and general status of homeless families in shelter and motels in the region. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Center for New Americans Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Education What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 8 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Met with Executive Director Russell Bradbury Carlin and Development Director Laurie Millman on December 3, 2104.Discussion focused on new programming for immigrant services, collaboration with The Literacy Project, the Pioneer Valley Workers Center, the area community colleges and Adult Basic Education programs in the region. Noted challenges their students face pursuing language, education and employment opportunities. 4 Agency/Group/Organization City of Easthampton Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - Local What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Market Analysis How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Telephone update with Jessica Allen, Easthampton Town Planner on April 9, 2015. Got updates on affordable housing, community development, economic development, infrastructure projects and homelessness. Discussion focused on sharing information and identifying areas of collaboration. Learned the afffordability ranges of 2 major housing projects coming on line there, helps know what income ranges are being served between our 2 communities. Their demand is for one bedroom units in the 30%ami range, rather than larger family units. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Senior Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons Municipal Department Elder Services and Senior Center Grantee Department What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? CDBG RFP sent directly to Director Patricia Shaughnessy. Met with staff October 8, 2014 about offering welcoming programming for the Latino community and discussed program needs. CDBG made last payment on the Senior Center construction debt service, so no additional funds can be applied to operating or maintenance. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 9 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 6 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Department of Public Works Agency/Group/Organization Type Municipal Department/Infrastructure Projects Grantee Department What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Economic Development How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? CDBG Request for Proposals sent directly to the Department. Several conversations with DPW Director Ned Huntley throughout the year to identify potential eligible projects to include in the program planning and Action Plans. 7 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Health Department Agency/Group/Organization Type Health Agency Grantee Department What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Lead-based Paint Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Email on April 3, 2015 and follow up conversations held with Ed Smith,Health Inspector in the City's Health Department relative to the lead based paint strategy. Worked with Merridith O'Leary during 2014 on developing a task force to investigate smoke free public housing, in conjunction with the Northampton Housing Authority. several tenant forums have been held and joint meeting with the Board of Health and the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. Legal services reps on the Housing Partnership were concerned about people with addictions being evicted from public housing if they couldn't stop smoking. Work continues.BOH also secured a 500,000 three year planning grant to address heroin addiction in Hampshire County and are forming a Task Force to begin the effort. 8 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Veterans Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Planning organization Services - Veterans Grantee Department What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Needs - Veterans Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 10 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Meet monthly with Northampton Veteran's Agent. Steve Connor is a regular participant at the Next Step Collaborative. Provides regular input into the housing and support services needs of local Veterans, the region and the State. Mr. Connor serves as the Chair of the . The Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness has a Veterans Committee that meets monthly. They have created a Resource Inventory, are working on a central intake form, get updates on Springfield's participation in the Zero 2016 campaign, created a Chapter 115 Veterans Benefits Information Flier and a VSO tracking sheet, are working on a centralized Coordinated Entry Release of Information for coordinated case management and are coordinating with Eliot CHS Homeless Services to do targeted street outreach to unsheltered Veterans. 9 Agency/Group/Organization Community Action of the Franklin, Hampshire and North Quabbin Regions, Inc. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-homeless Services-Health Services-Education Services-Employment CAP Agency What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Regional CAP Agency staff came to the two public hearings. They are also a CDBG public services grantee so the City interacts with their staff regularly. Their family and child care programs utilize the James House and Vernon Street School, both City owned. The annual community needs assessment they conduct is utilized by City staff for program planning and evaluation. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 11 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 10 Agency/Group/Organization Community Legal Aid, Inc. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Victims of Domestic Violence Services-homeless Service-Fair Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Lead-based Paint Strategy Public Housing Needs Homelessness Strategy Non-Homeless Special Needs Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Community Legal Aid is a CDBG grantee so City staff interact with them regularly. During the CDBG public services interview process, CLA was asked about client needs, trends and issues, so data is gathered through that process for community planning purposes. Two of the local staff attorneys are members of the Housing Partnership, so input is received regularly there also. A new project to stabilize at risk households in their housing will partner CLA and the Center for Human Development for eviction prevention activities. The impetus for the project came from CLA initiative. 11 Agency/Group/Organization Cooley Dickinson Healthy Communities Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS Services-Health Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Community physical and mental health issues Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 12 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Telephone conversation with Jeff Harness, Director of Western Mass Center for Healthy Communities, a division of Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Hospital recently merged with Mass General Hospital system and has a new CEO, very community oriented. Hospital has pool of grants they disperse, so coordination with CDBG is important. Both City and CDH focused on bolstering staff capacity and services at Casa Latina because they do medical translation services at the hospital and do outreach for the Health Care Connect Navigator and Mass Health programs.CDH sponsors The Positive Place, which is the HIV/Aids services organization for the county. 12 Agency/Group/Organization Department of Children and Families Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Child Welfare Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Families with children How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Central West Regional Director sits on the Western Mass. Inter Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness. This is a quarterly meeting of state agencies that work on homelessness issues to facilitate silo busting and increase public system coordination. City staff used to coordinate the WMIC meetings and although did not consult directly with the agency Director, quarterly meeting minutes articulate updates on issues and trends. 13 Agency/Group/Organization Department of Developmental Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 13 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Email inquiry and follow up conversations with Dan Lunden, Central West Regional Director and Jennifer Rush, Information on current housing inventory for their clients, waiting list numbers and unmet housing and support services needs were ascertained for program planning. The planned project on Burts Pit Road for 10 DDS clients through the Housing Authority has stalled at the State level for years due to lack of funding, so addressing other ways to meet the need is an outcome of the consultation. 14 Agency/Group/Organization Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Public Housing Needs Economic Development How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? State does an Annual Action Plan and Consolidated Plan for HUD. Those plans, drafts and final, are available on Department of Housing and Community Development's website. City staff review the drafts to see what direction the State is going for targeting resources. The Draft Action Plan for 2013 is the latest document posted, however. The Western Mass. rep, Alvina Brevard is the past chair of the W.Mass Inter- agency Council on Housing and Homelessness. She gives updates at the quarterly meetings and is accessible to get information regularly. Her office is in Springfield. 15 Agency/Group/Organization Department of Public Health Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Health Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Lead-based Paint Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 14 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Massachusetts Department of Public Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program publishes statistics by City/Town that are utilized for program planning. Fiscal Year 2012 is the latest posting, which indicate no incidences of blood lead levels. Of children 9-48 months, 65% of the population was screened and for children 6-72 months, 41% of the population was screened. Information was also examined for opiate addiction, which is an issue approaching epidemic proportions in the State. City staff will stay abreast of the Hampshire County Task Force on Opiate Addiction, being facilitated by the Northampton Board of Health. 16 Agency/Group/Organization Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-homeless Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Needs - Veterans Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Email and telephone follow up with AnneMarie Martineau, and Chris Zabik, Western Mass. Housing and Employment Coordinator. Information gathered regarding number of clients served in Northampton and Hampshire County, waiting list numbers and plans for creation of new units. 17 Agency/Group/Organization Department of Transitional Assistance Agency/Group/Organization Type Services - Housing Services-homeless Services-Employment Other government - State What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Families with children Non-Homeless Special Needs Anti-poverty Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 15 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Joanne Glier,Assistant Director, facilitates the quarterly meetings of the Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness. During those meetings, each State agency representative gives updates on regional activity of their agency relative to homeless services. Minutes reviewed regularly to ascertain DTA activity, changing regulations, numbers served, linkage with housing search workers from DHCD stationed at the DTA offices and issues and trends. 18 Agency/Group/Organization PIONEER VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? City staff consult regularly,(twice in April) about new development possibilities for Habitat projects. Currently investigating the Cooke Avenue site and one off of Route 10 on the Easthampton line. The Planning Department often does limited development projects in conjunction with open space land acquisition. Habitat is the only affordable housing developer that can do projects of 6 units or less, so we work with them regularly. Have done Pine Brook Curve, Ryan Road, Westhampton Rd., Cahillane Terrace and the Garfield Ave. 5 unit subdivision is finishing up this year. 19 Agency/Group/Organization Franklin Hampshire Career Center Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Employment What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 16 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Representatives of the Career Center participate in the Northampton Collaborative Educational Consortium. Quarterly meetings are held with Adult Basic Education providers, International Language Institute, The Literacy Project and the Center for New Americans. Other participants include the community colleges and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education grantees. Discussions focus on improving outreach and services for those either challenged by language or are not job ready. Consultations have resulted in a greater emphasis on soft skills - resume writing, interviewing techniques, expectations of the job site and computer skills. 20 Agency/Group/Organization Hampshire County United Way Agency/Group/Organization Type Regional organization What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? City staff consult regularly with Jim Ayres, the Executive Director of the United Way. Most of the CDBG public services grantees also receive funds from the United Way. We have had discussions in the past about consolidating funding application processes to make it easier on applicants. The United Way conducts surveys and needs assessments that the City uses for program planning, as many of our goals are the same. The United Way, with its fundraising campaign and allocations process, as well as community needs assessments do a great job bringing awareness of social needs of local residents to the broader community. 21 Agency/Group/Organization HAP Housing Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 17 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Consultations with HAP Housing occur regularly. We are working on a very significant affordable housing development now. HAPHousing and Valley CDC are our affordable housing development community partners. HAP serves the Pioneer Valley Region whereas Valley serves Northampton Easthampton and AMherst. There is no competition between the two agencies, they work well together. HAP would only do a project in Northampton if Valley was not able. There was a time when HAP took on the larger more complicated projects and Valley operated at a smaller scale, but Valley is also doing a very large new construction project in Northampton, so we work with them both. The COO of HAPHousing was the past chair of the Northampton Housing Partnership for 3 years and still serves on the Committee. 22 Agency/Group/Organization Highland Valley Elder Services Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Elderly Persons What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Highland Valley is a CDBG public services grantee this year for the second year. Due to that, we have more contact with them. During the application process, the interview process and the quarterly reporting and monitoring, we have a much better sense of the work the organization does and the needs they identify. Last year we did a project with them to identify at risk elders in the community due to feedback from the shelter providers and the SRO Outreach worker relative to the older people they are seeing. Connections were improved with HVES's Protective Services Division and two forums were held by HVES so they could meet and learn more about services in the community. 23 Agency/Group/Organization THE LITERACY PROJECT Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Education Services-Employment What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Needs - Unaccompanied youth Anti-poverty Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 18 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The Literacy Project is a CDBG Public Services grantee, a tenant in the James House and a lead facilitator of the NCEC (Educational Collaborative) so we interact with them regularly. The CDBG project assists their students with issues other than the actual GED training. It is called Pathways to Success. It addresses all the other obstacle people face as they pursue their educational and employment goals, such as language barriers, child care, transportation, food security, basic computer skills, guidance counseling. It sees the student holistically. So feedback during the application process, the quarterly reports and monitoring informs the City for program planning relative to barriers people face. 24 Agency/Group/Organization MANNA SOUP KITCHEN, INC. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-homeless Food Security Homelessness Prevention What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homelessness Strategy Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? MANNA staff are consulted during the CDBG Public Services application phase and throughout the program year via quarterly reports and monitoring. Program planning at the City level is impacted when numbers increase at the meal sites, when the numbers of people that are housed come to the meals ( indicators of food insecurity, incomes going to housing costs rather than food, need for socialization) and or when numbers of homeless coming to the meals increases (indicators of increased numbers of unsheltered homeless). 25 Agency/Group/Organization MASS FAIR HOUSING CENTER Agency/Group/Organization Type Service-Fair Housing What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 19 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? For many years, until last year, the MFHC was a CDBG Public Services grantee. They still do complaint processing and workshops in Northampton but they no longer apply for funds. They put on an annual fair housing conference with a variety of workshops that City staff attend. We are meeting with them in May to discuss updating the Analysis of Impediments. HAPHousing has a person who works on fair housing issues and landlord tenant issues. John Fisher attended the March Housing Partnership meeting to discuss the Interim Rule, update us on municipal responsibilities under the new rule and to strategize about how best to accomplish outreach and education when workshop attendance is low and the people most in need of the information don't attend. The Pioneer Valley Regional Planning Commission has a fair housing section in their recently completed Knowledge Corridor Plan. City staff participate in that regional effort. Northampton is a "community of opportunity" so our goal is to increase access for households looking to move from Hampden County ( Springfield/Holyoke area) which have high levels of poverty and segregation. The Northampton Housing Partnership has reviewed the AI recommendations and implements tasks every year to further the goals. 26 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Housing Authority Agency/Group/Organization Type PHA What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Public Housing Needs Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 20 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? 2 members of the Northampton Housing Partnership sit on the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. This is a new development in order to increase collaboration and flow of information. The Assistant Director attends CDBG Public Hearings and supplied the information for this ConPlan related to unit numbers, issues, trends, capital improvement plans and tenant empowerment. The NHA is in the process of hiring a new Executive Director. Once that hire is made, City staff will meet with them to pursue the development of the 2 remaining parcels deeded to the NHA when the State Hospital closed ( Laurel Street and Burts Pit Road ). 27 Agency/Group/Organization Northampton Survival Center Agency/Group/Organization Type Provision of Food What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? The NSC is a CDBG public services grantee, so we stay in touch with them through the application and monitoring process. During site visits, City staff talk alot about the profiles of the clients, who they are ( race, ethnicity, homeless, housed, housed where ) and what their needs are. Their community room is used for life skills, nutrition and health, cooking classes and they are looking to offer additional topics that will contribute to housing stabilization such as financial literacy trainings. The NSC is a good barometer to gauge stability and distress in local households with low and very low incomes. The Client Services Director attended the CDBG interview and provided a great deal of relevant information. 28 Agency/Group/Organization A Positive Place Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? HOPWA Strategy Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 21 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Staff of the Positive Place attend the Next Step Collaborative meetings facilitated by City staff for housing and homeless service providers monthly. We talk often about the difficulty finding affordable units for their clients in Northampton. Updates are given regularly about numbers of those with HIV/Aids, support services being offered and service system gaps, and the philosophy of the new leadership at the local hospital which houses the program. Info. was provided for the Conplan related to numbers served, numbers on the waiting list and challenges and trends. 29 Agency/Group/Organization SAFE PASSAGE Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Victims of Domestic Violence What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Homeless Needs - Families with children How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Anthia Elliot, Program Director at Safe Passage attends the Next Step Collaborative meetings monthly. Anthia provides updates on numbers seen, trends, issues, who is presenting at their Shelter, household compositions, support service needs. Through those discussions, we have identified the need for transitional housing for families experiencing domestic violence. City staff is in communication with the Director to identify how to accomplish that. Friends of the Homeless are investigating a target population for their third house ( they have purchased two and partnered with service agencies), which might address this need. The Community Preservation Act funds would be applied for. A project such as this would provide "next step" housing options for families who need more time than allowed for in their local emergency shelter. Work continues. 30 Agency/Group/Organization ServiceNet, Inc. Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Children Services-Persons with Disabilities Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS Services-homeless Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 22 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs - Chronically homeless Homeless Needs - Families with children Homelessness Needs - Veterans Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? City staff interact with Shelter and Housing staff at ServiceNet regularly. The Hampshire County Program Director and the Resource Center staff attend the Next Step Collaborative monthly meetings. They tell us if they are at capacity, where they are moving people out to, the number of turn aways, characteristics of the population, town of origin, etc. so we can plan accordingly. The winter shelter operates from November to April so numbers swell with the anticipation of the opening, but we try to gauge if all the local sheltering programs can meet the need. We also hear from the Street Outreach Clinician ( Eliot Homeless Services ) about the numbers of unsheltered living outside so we can anticipate the numbers coming in for the winter. Northern migration from the Hampden county programs is monitored so we can plan accordingly. Between the annex in Easthampton and the relatively new program in Amherst, we have housed the majority of those looking for shelter. Turnaways are the result of being intoxicated, more than capacity issues. The Amherst is a wet shelter and opens later so they can usually take turnaways from here. Monitoring is done as well because the Grove Street Inn year round shelter and the Interfaith Winter shelter are CDBG public service grantees. 31 Agency/Group/Organization Stavros Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with Disabilities What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Non-Homeless Special Needs Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 23 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Stavros is the regional advocacy agency for people with disabilities. City staff co sponsor workshops with their agency on fair housing laws so people are not denied access or reasonable accommodation in housing and are aware of their rights. We did a workshop with Stavros and the Mass. Fair Housing Center last year. 32 Agency/Group/Organization Tapestry Health Agency/Group/Organization Type Services-Persons with HIV/AIDS Services-Health Services-Education What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? HOPWA Strategy Anti-poverty Strategy How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Consultation via email then a follow up phone call on April 13th. Tapestry Health runs the needle exchange program in Northampton, participates in the Task Force on Opiate Addiction and conducts outreach and information dissemination for at risk populations.Tapestry Health is a non-profit health care agency that has been serving western Massachusetts for over 40 years. Founded as the Family Planning Council of Western Massachusetts in 1973, Tapestry remains the only non-profit organization in the region to offer family planning and reproductive health care to often marginalized individuals, such as young people, women living in poverty, recent immigrants, injection drug users, the homeless, and men and women with HIV/AIDS, regardless of their ability to pay. With offices in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire Counties, they provide a variety of services including Health Services, WIC programs, HIV prevention and support, homelessness and re-entry programs, and operate the only two needle exchanges offered in Massachusetts west of Cambridge. 33 Agency/Group/Organization Town of Amherst Agency/Group/Organization Type Other government - Local What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Market Analysis Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 24 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Telephone consultation with Nate Malloy, CDBG Administrator/Housing Planner for the Town of Amherst. Lengthy update on their expiring use projects, their efforts to create new units of affordable housing, their support for Craigs Door, the winter shelter, community development projects and their efforts to secure local and state funding. Our communities share the resources of Habitat for Humanity, the Mass. Fair Housing Center, Community Legal Aid, Valley CDC and HAP Housing, so getting and sharing updates on projects and what is planned for the future is beneficial for local planning. 34 Agency/Group/Organization Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC) Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Planning organization What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Need Assessment How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Valley CDC is our community partner for affordable housing management and development, as well as a CDBG grantee for first time homebuyer and downpayment assistance. They also administer a micro business technical assistance program for the City. Valley is currently undertaking a new 55 unit affordable housing project that is huge for Northampton. There have been funding applications to the Community Preservation Committee and DHCD, various local permits and collaboration with the HAP project down the block, so we talk regularly. They also facilitate a quarterly meeting of all service providers engaged with Valley's tenants. Valley and Home City Housing, their property manager are committed to housing stabilization for their residents and gather people to troubleshoot potential issues and coordinate case management to insure successful tenant landlord relationships. Coordination with City staff is successful and frequent. No need for improvement. Happy to have them as community development partners. Great organization and staff. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 25 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting Agencies determined to have relevant input into the creation of this plan were consulted. Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan? Continuum of Care Hilltown Community Development Corporation Creation of permanent supported housing units and housing support services. Homelessness prevention, housing stabilization to reduce recidivism, increase services for mentally ill and those abusing substances. Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Regional Housin PVPC 2014 Identification of communities of opportunity that commit to creating affordable housing to facilitate movement from areas of concentration in Hampden County, primarily Springfield and Holyoke, north and west. Needs Assessment & Strategic Housing Plan City of Northampton 2011 Solidification of list of prioritized needs based on extensive data compilation and citizen input during public participation sessions for plan development. Needs Assessment in Housing Plan very thorough, provides direction for resource allocation for Community Preservation Committee and Housing Partnership. Federal Opening Doors Plan U.S. Department of HUD 2010 Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness has state line item earmark to align all regional activity with Federal Open Doors Plan, to insure progress and accountability in one operational framework. HAPHousing Strategic Plan HAPHousing 2014 Creation of permanent supported affordable housing with on-site Resident Services Coordinators to insure successful tenancies and housing stability. All Roads Lead Home Three County COC 10 Yr. Plan to End Homelessness 2008 Build community support for ending homelessness, coordination and funding for prevention and rapid rehousing, creation of supportive housing for vulnerable populations, increase affordable housing for extremely low income, increase education, employment and assets. Table 3 – Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l)) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 26 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The City will work closely with local, regional and State partners to implement the ConPlan. The Hilltown Community Development Corporation works in adjacent communities to the west and is the lead agency for the CoC. Northampton, Amherst and Easthampton are the primary communities in Hampshire County and collaboration is necessary for homeless services coordination and affordable housing development. The Commonwealth’s Department of Housing and Community Development is a partner in public infrastructure projects, resources for public housing and affordable housing production. Local efforts also benefit from the Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness which is regularly attended by representatives from DHCD, the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Public Health, the Mass. Rehabilitation Commission, the Mass. Disabilities Commission, the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the CoC leads and the Coordinator for the Network to End Homelessness. A state line item earmark of $125,000 has allowed the Network to develop data integration, analysis and reporting capabilities to advance its mission to prevent and end homelessness in alignment with Opening Doors, the Federal Strategic Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness. Narrative (optional): Goals of the Opening Doors in Western MA effort are to: • Finish the job of ending chronic homelessness • Finish the job of ending homelessness among Veterans • Prevent and end homelessness for families, youth and children • Set a path to ending all types of homelessness Performance Measures Include: • Reduction in the length of time that people experience homelessness • Reducing the number of people and families who are homeless • Reduce the number of people and families that return to homelessness • Job and income growth Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 27 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) PR-15 Citizen Participation 1. Summary of citizen participation process/Efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal-setting Two public hearings, 14 email and telephone consultations, 5 Next Step Collaborative meetings, 4 Housing Partnership meetings and a Request for Proposals competitive application process to select public service grantees were conducted. All hearings and meetings were publicly posted and open to everyone. Information gathered was taken into consideration for the selection of public facilities and infrastructure projects as well as housing projects and public social services grants. The input informed the community planning process by identifying strengths and weaknesses in the service delivery system. Targeting resources and enhancing the collaborations needed to address the weaknesses and grow the strengths impacted the 5 year planning strategy. City staff find that emails followed up with appointments made for telephone interviews with targeted questions is highly effective. General public hearings tend to be less well attended, although substantive discourse occurs in those settings as well. City staff prefer presenting open ended questions and having round table discussions that evolve organically, as opposed to formal power point presentations and limited interactive conversation. This approach works well with our City size and the universe of participants. The 12 public services grantees are monitored annually and those sessions present well utilized opportunities for detailed information sharing about the needs of clients and how to address them moving forward. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 28 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Citizen Participation Outreach Sort Orde r Mode of Outreac h Target of Outreac h Summary of response/attendanc e Summary of comments received Summary of comment s not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable ) 1 Public Hearing Minorities Persons with disabilities Non- targeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Public Hearing on Housing, Community and Economic Development PrioritiesWednesday February 11, 2015. 15 attended. Written comments received from Community Action relative to needs of low income youth. A summary is included in the Executive Summary. There were no comments not accepted. 2 Public Hearing Minorities Persons with disabilities Non- targeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Discussion of Draft Consolidated Plan and Annual Action PlanWednesday April 8, 2015. 7 attended. Written comments are included in the minutes of the public hearings, contained in Appendix I. There were no comments that were not accepted. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 29 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Orde r Mode of Outreac h Target of Outreac h Summary of response/attendanc e Summary of comments received Summary of comment s not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable ) 3 Public Meeting Housing and Homeless Service Providers Next Step Collaborative. Meets monthly, 5 monthly meetings devoted to identifying community needs and ConPlan discussion. Each monthly meeting was attended by 4- 10 providers. Input focused on additional housing program types needed in City, homeless shelter capacity, issues and trends, unmet support service needs and updates on new affordable housing projects. There were no comments not accepted. 4 Public Meeting Housing Partnership Members 5 meetings held from January to June with 5-8 participants monthly. Members are composed of architects, bankers, realtors, legal aid attorneys, housing developers, landlords and interested citizens. Needs Assessment reviewed for validity from 2011 Strategic Housing Plan. Fair Housing Analysis of Impediments Recommendations prioritized for implementation,update s on Housing Support Services Project and affordable housing developments, as well as monitoring expiring use projects. There were no comments not accepted. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 30 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Orde r Mode of Outreac h Target of Outreac h Summary of response/attendanc e Summary of comments received Summary of comment s not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable ) 5 Public Meeting Minorities Non-English Speaking - Specify other language: Spanish Meeting with Public Services Ad Hoc Review Committee and 4 representatives of Casa Latina, advocacy organization serving the Latino population in Hampshire County. 9 participants total. Reviewed priority needs of the Latino population in Northampton, the organizations strategic plan to address those needs and articulated City support for implementation of the strategic plan and board development to improve and sustain staff capacity and organizational health. There were no comments not accepted. 6 Telephone interview Persons with disabilities One on one conversation with Stavros Center for Independent Living on May 10, 2015. Advocacy organization serving the disabled community in the region. Contained in sections addressing special needs populations. There were no comments not accepted. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 31 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Orde r Mode of Outreac h Target of Outreac h Summary of response/attendanc e Summary of comments received Summary of comment s not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable ) 7 Telephone interview Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Northampton Housing Authority hired a consultant to guide the Board of Commissioners search and selection process for a new Executive Director. Many community stakeholders and tenants were interviewed and surveyed to identify tenant needs and hopes for improved community collaboration. Information gathered via the ED selection process was shared with City staff to assist with plan preparation, as well as the data collection required for the ConPlan sections was submitted by the NHA. There were no comments not accepted. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 32 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Orde r Mode of Outreac h Target of Outreac h Summary of response/attendanc e Summary of comments received Summary of comment s not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable ) 8 Telephone interview some general, some specific to targetted populations telephone consultations held with Department of Mental Health, Dept. of Dev. Services, Housing Authority, MA Fair Housing Center, Tapestry Health, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Stavros, A Positive Place, City Veterans Agent, Casa Latina, Valley CDC, HAPHousing, Habitat for Humanity, Towns of Amherst and Easthampton. As reflected in narrative and goal setting sections, and as recorded in the Executive Summary. There were no comments received that were not accepted. Table 4 – Citizen Participation Outreach Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 33 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Needs Assessment NA-05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview With an overall inventory of 11,880 households (6,356 ownership units and 5,524 rental units), 3,525 or 30% have low or extremely low incomes. Although the population (28,621) has remained stable, the citizenry is aging and a high percentage of households claim some type of disability. The housing stock is generally in good condition although the majority of housing units were built before 1980. The incidences of overcrowding are minimal, however the Asian and Black/African American populations are disproportionately impacted in some categories. Lack of availability and affordability for renters and homeowners are critical issues in Northampton. The primary issue is that of cost burden. • 1,135 households with 80% of area median income or less paying 50% or more of their income for rental housing costs equates to 21% of all renter households. • 985 households with 80% of area median income or less paying 30% or more of their income for rental housing costs equates to 8% of all renter households. • 585 households with incomes of 80% area median income or less paying 50% or more of their income for housing costs equate to 9% of all homeowners. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 34 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-10 Housing Needs Assessment - 24 CFR 91.205 (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs Northampton has a population of 28,621. There are 11,853 occupied households. With 2,120 households having incomes of 0-30% of area median income and 1,405 having incomes between 30-50% of area median income, that indicates 30% of all Northampton households with low or extremely low incomes. With the vacancy rate being very low and the housing demand high, both the rental and homeownership supply is very stressed, making affordability and availability the most pressing housing needs. The housing stock is in generally good condition, foreclosure rates have stabilized. Asian and Black/African American populations are experiencing disproportionate housing problems. Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2011 % Change Population 28,978 28,621 -1% Households 11,863 11,853 -0% Median Income $41,808.00 $54,413.00 30% Table 5 - Housing Needs Assessment Demographics Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2007-2011 ACS (Most Recent Year) Number of Households Table 0-30% HAMFI >30-50% HAMFI >50-80% HAMFI >80-100% HAMFI >100% HAMFI Total Households * 11,590 7,875 9,015 4,800 16,820 Small Family Households * 5,990 4,550 5,760 3,050 13,180 Large Family Households * 510 460 770 650 1,420 Household contains at least one person 62-74 years of age 3,140 2,780 2,540 1,060 2,990 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 3,560 2,920 1,690 730 1,340 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger * 3,010 2,010 1,760 1,080 2,400 * the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI Table 6 - Total Households Table Alternate Data Source Name: ACS Data for Northampton City, MA 2007-2011 Data Source Comments: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 35 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Needs Summary Tables 1. Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Substandard Housing - Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities 30 0 0 0 30 0 0 0 0 0 Severely Overcrowded - With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) 0 0 30 10 40 0 0 0 15 15 Overcrowded - With 1.01-1.5 people per room (and none of the above problems) 35 0 0 0 35 0 0 25 0 25 Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 975 130 30 0 1,135 235 200 150 60 645 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 36 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 390 385 210 45 1,030 65 185 300 260 810 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) 40 0 0 0 40 30 0 0 0 30 Table 7 – Housing Problems Table Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS 2. Housing Problems 2 (Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems: Lacks kitchen or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden) Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 1,035 130 60 10 1,235 235 200 175 75 685 Having none of four housing problems 695 615 930 350 2,590 90 460 700 595 1,845 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems 40 0 0 0 40 30 0 0 0 30 Table 8 – Housing Problems 2 Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 37 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 3. Cost Burden > 30% Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 235 110 70 415 40 140 185 365 Large Related 100 0 15 115 0 15 20 35 Elderly 225 129 0 354 205 175 125 505 Other 865 275 185 1,325 60 60 115 235 Total need by income 1,425 514 270 2,209 305 390 445 1,140 Table 9 – Cost Burden > 30% Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS 4. Cost Burden > 50% Renter Owner 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI Total 0-30% AMI >30-50% AMI >50-80% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 190 25 0 215 40 120 90 250 Large Related 100 0 0 100 0 15 0 15 Elderly 105 55 0 160 140 45 45 230 Other 640 50 30 720 60 20 10 90 Total need by income 1,035 130 30 1,195 240 200 145 585 Table 10 – Cost Burden > 50% Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS 5. Crowding (More than one person per room) Renter Owner 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Single family households 35 0 15 0 50 0 0 15 15 30 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 38 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Renter Owner 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI >80- 100% AMI Total Multiple, unrelated family households 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 10 Other, non-family households 0 0 15 10 25 0 0 0 0 0 Total need by income 35 0 30 10 75 0 0 25 15 40 Table 11 – Crowding Information – 1/2 Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS Renter Owner 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total 0- 30% AMI >30- 50% AMI >50- 80% AMI Total Households with Children Present 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 12 – Crowding Information – 2/2 Data Source Comments: Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance. Householders living alone (4,370), compose 37.5% of all households in Northampton. 1,560 of those households at the 0-80% of area median income levels are paying greater than 30% of their incomes for housing costs. 810 single individual households are paying greater than 50% of their income. With a total of 11,853 households, that translates to 20% of all Northampton households (2,370/11,853) being cost burdened. At the 30% cost burden level, individuals that are renting are almost 40% higher in number than other cost burdened categories: Individual renters = 1,325; Elderly homeowners = 505; Small household renters = 415, Small households owning= 365 and Elderly renters =354. With regard to types of individuals, they may be residents living in non-subsidized single room occupancy units, small owner occupied rentals, retirees with limited income in condominium units or small apartments in single family homes. Despite a stable population total over the last several decades, (a 1% increase from 1980 to 2010) the number of households has increased 16%. Average household size has decreased from 2.45 to 2.14. This trend reflects the growing need for smaller sized affordable units for one or two person households. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 39 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. According to Safe Passage, the local DV services agency, domestic violence is among the leading factors for instability and homelessness. In 2014, they served 1,493 community-based clients. 71 needed housing advocacy and placement. 22 had no children, 49 had at least one child. Many had no incomes when they presented. Economic instability and credit problems for survivors result when abusers leave utilities unpaid and accumulate debt unknown by the survivor. Noise complaints and unpaid rent can make positive landlord references improbable. For students, leaving violent settings can cause disruption of education, loss of credits, tuition and financial aid. Disability is a risk factor for domestic violence. Between 60-95% of persons with specific disabilities have been victims of interpersonal violence. Data indicates that among homeless women, more than 85% have a history of DV, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. Re-housing victims is challenging due to the safety risk. For survivors who want to stay in their own communities due to jobs, school, family and children’s needs, finding safe and affordable housing is often impossible. Many families placed in Northampton from other communities desire to stay. Estimating the need is difficult. According to the City’s Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan, of the 2,000 residents aged between 5 and 20, 539 or 9.1 % had some disability. Of those aged 21-64, 2,650 residents or 15% of the people those ages claimed a disability. About 58% of this group was employed, leaving another 42% or 1,100 residents unemployed, likely due to their disability. For those aged 65 and older, 1,227 seniors, or 37.9% of those in that age group claimed a disability. These levels of disability represent significant special needs in Northampton and mandate that the City make a concentrated effort to integrate special needs housing, units that are handicapped accessible and housing with supportive services into affordable housing development planning. According to Stavros, the regional disability advocacy organization, finding affordable, accessible housing can be one of the biggest challenges faced by persons with disabilities. They report receiving 150 requests for housing informtion in Hampshire County, what's available and how to look for it. Most of the requests are for the Northampton Amherst area. The rent at most apartments is out of reach for many disabled people. While subsidies aren’t easy to come by, they work with clients to get the best rental assistance available. Stavros provides the resources and assistance people need to find housing that works for them. Stavros’ Housing Services division provides information on and keeps updated lists of accessible, subsidized and market rate housing in western Massachusetts. Stavros sends lists of housing opportunities and related material to consumers interested in living in the area. Stavros also provides information about modifications and financing. Stavros holds monthly workshops on topics such as: subsidized housing, governmental programs, tenants’ rights and responsibilities, reasonable accommodation and how to search for housing. Attendees receive informational packets at the sessions. The problems their clients face are limited availability of units in elderly/disabled housing (communities put caps on the number of younger disabled who can live there), aging housing stock not accessible for persons with mobility impairments, very limited subsidies (and the disconnect between actual rents and the subsidies) and limited public transportation beyond the larger communities. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 40 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) What are the most common housing problems? Data indicates that cost burden and lack of affordable housing availability are the primary challenges for those with lowest incomes in Northampton. Despite the fact that the subsidized housing inventory percentage exceeds many communities (11.8%) all consultations and needs assessments point to a lack of available units. Part of the problem is a lack of movement once those units are filled; there is very little tenant turnover. The age of the housing stock does not seem to be problematic with regard to kitchen and plumbing facilities but may have unreported amounts of lead paint.The renter population expending more than 50% of income for housing costs is the highest category of being cost burdened, with renters paying more than 30% of household income running close behind. The homeowner income categories of 50-80% ami paying more than 30% of their income is the next highest category, with homeowners at 0-30% ami paying more than 50% of their income the next highest category. More generically, the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Housing Plan of 2011 identified the following housing problems and needed resources: homelessness prevention, the need to support the existing homeless shelters and rapid re-housing efforts, production of rental housing for individuals and families, preservation of existing affordable housing stock, housing rehabilitation resources, affordable homeownership opportunities for smaller households and housing for at-risk special populations. Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems? Individual renters and elders seem to be struggling the most with cost burden. The order of need based on the data presented is as follows: For cost burden of paying 30% or more of income for housing: Individual renters 1,325, Elderly homeowners, 505, Small Related Renters 415, Small Related Owners, 365 and Elderly renters 354.For cost burden of paying more than 50% of income for housing: Individual renters 720, Small related household owners,250, elderly homeowners 230. The cost burden rate for renters is nearly double for that of homeowners. For clients of the Department of Mental Health, secure housing is the base for recovery for many but most need a subsidy in order to afford rent in Northampton. Most clients have only SSI or SSDI to cover all of their living expenses. The rental market here has too few units to make securing even an efficiency apartment possible without rental assistance. Often clients whose services are in the City are forced to live in surrounding towns and then commute in to receive services. Part of a mental health crisis and subsequent hospitalization may be the loss of housing. Such episodes can fracture relationships and impact financial stability which negatively impacts housing options. Many individuals experience extended lengths of stay in DMH crisis respite beds (former rest home, Community Support Options in Florence) because there are no affordable units available. The highest need is for one bedroom or efficiency units as most clients are individual households. Currently, for three of the four DMH clients in respite, housing is the major reason the individuals have not transitioned to their own homes in the community. There are currently 67 units in Northampton set aside for DMH clients. 5 more are planned with the HAPHousing Pleasant Street project in 2016-17. Challenges faced by households experiencing domestic violence are described above. Individuals and families with family members that have been Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 41 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) incarcerated also have an extremely difficult time accessing housing. Criminal records are a huge barrier to housing, particularly for someone with a sex offender history. Describe the characteristics and needs of Low-income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low-income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered 91.205(c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re-housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance According to the CoC HMIS Administrator, locally and regionally, families who are currently housed but at imminent risk are disproportionately Hispanic ( up to 40%); mostly one parent families headed by single mothers (up to 90%) who tend to be ages 30 and younger. These families are typically small, with one or two children, and most receive TANF. Individuals who are currently housed but who are at risk are disproportionately impacted by illness, especially mental health problems or mental illness, which undermines their stability in housing and can lead to issues that jeopardize their housing stabilization. Although HomeBASE funding and employment initiatives go a long way towards increasing families income and self sufficiency, market rate rents are still outside the grasp of families earning minimum wage or receiving public benefits. According to the 2011 Housing Plan, an income of $38,000 (assuming $100 per month for utility bills and expenses no more than 30% of income) is needed to afford a one bedroom apartment (median rent $850) and $41,400 to rent a two bedroom apartment (median rent $900). Someone earning minimum wage of $9.00/hr. for 40 hours a week would yield a gross annual salary of $18,720. Households with two earners at minimum wage still fall short. The scarcity of affordable rentals, particularly those with support services, was identified as the foremost housing need during the citizen participation process of the Housing Plan, and the ConPlan. It is always a struggle when a program that has provided resources for housing search, placement, rental assistance and support services ends. When HomeBASE and RAFT funds get exhausted, the State usually adds allocations in supplemental budgets to avoid sending all those successfully housed back into the shelter system. There is no formal Rapid Re-housing program operating in Northampton or Hampshire County. Most of the funds that come into the region for these purposes get utilized for prevention. If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at-risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at-risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates: The operational definition of the at-risk population would be an individual or family who: (i) has an annual income below 30% of median family income for the area; AND (ii) Does not have sufficient resources or support networks immediately available to prevent them from moving to an emergency shelter or another place defined in Category 1 of the "homeless" definition; AND (iii) Meets one of the Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 42 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) following conditions: 2 or more moves within the last 60 days; being doubled up; being asked to leave or being evicted and losing housing within the next 21 days. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development declares that imminent risk includes the loss of housing within 14 days with no other options/no support system. Estimating populations at risk could be done by using the National Alliance to End Homelessness criteria which includes determinint the number and rate of 1) people in poor households who are doubled up; and 2) poor renter households with severe housing cost burden. The methodology would rely on US Census data, American Community Survey data and data from the Massachusetts Department of Education on doubled up children. The most recent estimate from NAEH of those at rick of homelessness in Massachusetts indicates that while worst case housing risk has decreased by 8% over the previous year, the number of people who are doubled up has increased by 30%. Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness Housing that is unaffordable increases the risk of displacement. Also, units with health and safety issues put households at risk. Tenants that complain about the conditions of their units may face repercussions from landlords unwilling to make the improvements. There are families and individuals that enter shelter in the CoC that are forced out due to their housing having code violations, less a problem in Northampton than in other areas. Up to 40% of families entering shelter come from doubled up situations. 20-25% of individuals also report being doubled up prior to shelter entry, usually in couch surfing situations. Doubling up puts tenants of units holding the lease at jeopardy if they host people not on the lease. The CoC also reports that households most at risk are poor renter households at 125% of poverty level who are severely cost burdened, paying more that 50% of their income towards rent. Discussion Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 43 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction To insure a diverse community that affords opportunity for all population segments, it is important to analyze disparate impacts. According to HUD, disproportionately greater need is experienced when the percentage of a racial/ethnic group's households being negatively impacted exceed the percentage of the total number of households at that income level in the community by 10%. The data below does not indicate that any one sub-population group has a disproportionately greater need compared to the total number of households in the community at that income level. The breakdown in the four charts below reflect the same ratios as the number of people in each racial and ethnic group compared to the total population in the City and the calculated percentages are shown in discussion boxes below each chart. This does not mean that no actions are required to remediate the impacts, despite the fact that no group met HUD's disproportionately greater need threshold. 0%-30% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,720 335 70 White 1,345 160 55 Black / African American 55 15 0 Asian 45 15 15 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 225 130 0 Table 13 - Disproportionally Greater Need 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Analysis Using the formula suggested by HUD yields the following: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 44 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 81% of the community at this income level has 1 or more housing problems. The racial/ethnic breakdowns are: White 86%, Black/African American 79%, Asian 60% and Hispanic 63% 30%-50% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 905 500 0 White 865 395 0 Black / African American 10 0 0 Asian 0 25 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 20 80 0 Table 14 - Disproportionally Greater Need 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Analysis 64% of the households at this income level experience one or more housing problems. 69% of those households are white, less than one percent are Black/African American and Asian and 20% are Hispanic households. 50%-80% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 745 1,120 0 White 645 980 0 Black / African American 30 0 0 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 45 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Asian 25 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 10 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 25 140 0 Table 15 - Disproportionally Greater Need 50 - 80% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Analysis 40% of the whole community at this income level have one or more housing problems. Whites comprise 40% of that total, Blacks/AA's and Asians comprise one percent and Hispanic households comprise 15%. 80%-100% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 385 645 0 White 370 595 0 Black / African American 15 10 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 15 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 0 25 0 Table 16 - Disproportionally Greater Need 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Analysis Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 46 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 37% of all households at this income level experience one or more housing problems. 38% is comprised of white households, 6% are Black/AA and no other percentages are indicated for other racial/ethnic groups. Discussion The four housing problems defined by HUD are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4. Cost burden greater than 30%. With a universe of 11,667 occupied housing units in Northampton, 2011-13 American Community Survey estimates indicate 161 kitchens lack complete facilities (1%) and 77 lack complete plumbing facilities (< 1%). With very low counts on the number of substandard housing units and overcrowded households, analysis would lead to the conclusion that the primary problem being experienced by households in Northampton is related to housing cost burden. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 47 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-20 Disproportionately Greater Need: Severe Housing Problems – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction According to the data below and consultations, several racial/ethnic sub-populations in Northampton are experiencing severe housing problems. For each area median income breakdown category below, the racial/ethnic group is compared to the total number of households in the community at that income level. HUD defines disproportionate need as when one group exceeds the percentage of persons in the category as a whole, by 10 percentage points. This section differs from the one prior by breaking out more severe problems which are defined as: overcrowding being more than 1.5 persons per room (as opposed to more than one person per room in NA-15) and households paying 50% or more of their incomes for housing costs as opposed to 30% or more (as in NA-15). The information HUD provides in the charts is by household, not number of persons. 0%-30% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 1,270 785 70 White 1,030 480 55 Black / African American 55 15 0 Asian 45 15 15 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 90 265 0 Table 17 – Severe Housing Problems 0 - 30% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Analysis 60% of the jurisdiction as a whole at this level of income have one or more of four housing problems; Whites have 66% but Blacks have 78% which is a disproportionately greater need. Asians have 60% and Hispanics have 25%. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 48 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 30%-50% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 330 1,070 0 White 315 945 0 Black / African American 10 0 0 Asian 0 25 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 10 90 0 Table 18 – Severe Housing Problems 30 - 50% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Analysis 24% of the jurisdiction as a whole at this income level have one or more of four housing problems. Whites have 25% and Hispanics have 10%. No group has a disproportionately greater need over another. 50%-80% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 235 1,630 0 White 195 1,430 0 Black / African American 30 0 0 Asian 10 15 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 10 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 0 165 0 Table 19 – Severe Housing Problems 50 - 80% AMI Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 49 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Analysis 13% of the jurisdiction as a whole at this income level have one or more of four housing problems. Whites have 12%, Blacks have 1% and Asians have 40%, which is a disproportionately greater need. 80%-100% of Area Median Income Severe Housing Problems* Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 85 945 0 White 85 880 0 Black / African American 0 25 0 Asian 0 0 0 American Indian, Alaska Native 0 15 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 Hispanic 0 25 0 Table 20 – Severe Housing Problems 80 - 100% AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS *The four severe housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than 1.5 persons per room, 4.Cost Burden over 50% Analysis 8% of the jurisdiction as a whole at this income level have one or more of four housing problems.Whites have 9% and the data for the other categories shows none. No one group has a disproportionately greater need over the other segments. Discussion For the 0-30% of area median income level, the Black/African American community has a disproportionately greater need. Although less than half of one percent of the total population of Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 50 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) households, this segment struggles with housing problems in Northampton. For the 50-80% of area median income, these charts show that the Asian community is struggling with housing problems. Although the numbers of households impacted are small (55 out of 11,853 households in the community for Blacks and 10 out of 11,853 for Asians, these scenarios could be indicative of why there are not larger racial and ethnic members of these populations in Northampton, because they cannot afford to live here. The numbers of households experiencing overcrowding and the numbers of substandard housing units is minimal, therefore the conclusion is made that the problem most households are struggling with is cost burden. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 51 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-25 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens – 91.205 (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction: Housing Cost Burden Housing Cost Burden <=30% 30-50% >50% No / negative income (not computed) Jurisdiction as a whole 2,635 1,865 1,855 70 White 6,640 2,230 1,575 55 Black / African American 45 14 95 0 Asian 200 15 45 15 American Indian, Alaska Native 25 10 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 0 Hispanic 510 180 100 0 Table 21 – Greater Need: Housing Cost Burdens AMI Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS Discussion: The data indicates that 29% of the jurisdiction as a whole is cost burdened (paying 30-50% of their income for housing costs and 29% is severely cost burdened (paying more than 50% of their income for housing costs. 62 % of Black/African American households are paying more than 50% of their income for housing costs, indicating a disproportionately greater need. 95 households out of a total of 11,853 represents less than 1% of the households in the community, but representative an issue within that population segment that needs to be examined. 95 out of a total of 154 households represents 62% of all Black/African American households in Northampton struggling with severe cost burden. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 52 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-30 Disproportionately Greater Need: Discussion – 91.205(b)(2) Are there any Income categories in which a racial or ethnic group has disproportionately greater need than the needs of that income category as a whole? At 0-30% area median income, the Black/African American population is experiencing disproportionately severe housing problems - 78% compared to 60% for the jurisdiction as a whole at that income level. At the 50-80% area median income level, Asian households are experiencing severe housing problems. In 2010, Black/African Americans numbered 776 out of a total population of 28,549 or 2.7% . Asians numbered 1,162 or 4.1% of the total population. According to the ACS 2011-13 estimates, Blacks will number 954 and Asians 1,734. Hispanics numbered 1,928 in 2010 and show as 2,494 in the estimates. This data indicates a growth trend within these racial and ethnic groups moving forward. The chart below shows those trends. If they have needs not identified above, what are those needs? Due to the low numbers of housing units with incomplete kitchen and/or plumbing facilities, or units with overcrowding, the conclusion is that the primary housing problem as defined by HUD being experienced is cost burden. Additionally, the Mass. Fair Housing Center and the City's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing indicate a significant racial gap in access to homeownership in Northampton.The Non-Latino White homeownership rate is 60% while 16% for Blacks and 20% for Latinos. Northampton is in the Springfield Metropolitan Statistical Area. This MSA ranks first in the nation for the degree of segregation between Latinos and Whites, and twenty-second in the nation for segregation between African Americans and Whites. Northampton is located 10-20 miles north of Holyoke and Springfield and is considered a "community of opportunity" to deconcentration of poverty and expansion of housing options. Only 16% of all rental housing units in Northampton have 3 or more bedrooms. These units are needed by families of color, where over 40% of Black and Latino households had 4 or more people living together. Over 34% of Asian family households had 4 or more people living together. In comparison, only 28% of White Non-Latino households were made up of 4 or more people. Are any of those racial or ethnic groups located in specific areas or neighborhoods in your community? Onecpd maps do not show the locations of the ethnic groups in any way that yields analysis. The universe is too small for the Black/African American community to be indicated. Asians seem to be scattered throughout the City. An assumption was that the larger number of concentrations for Hispanic Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 53 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) people are the two public housing developments. One does not even appear on the map. Further research will be done with the Housing Authority to determine if that is the case. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 54 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-35 Public Housing – 91.205(b) Introduction The Northampton Housing Authority manages 618 public housing units and 857 leased housing program vouchers. A chart showing the types of units is included in the appendix (A). There are 12 additional units under development, 2 at Hampshire Heights and 10 at the Burts Pit Road site. Totals in Use Program Type Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers in use 857 32 618 857 43 474 308 0 0 Table 22 - Public Housing by Program Type *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Alternate Data Source Name: Data from Northampton Housing Authority. Data Source Comments: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 55 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Characteristics of Residents Program Type Certificate Mod- Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Average Annual Income 11,223 7,357 12,835 13,704 0 13,730 13,720 0 Average length of stay 5 2 6 5 8 6 0 0 Average Household size 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 0 # Homeless at admission 1 26 0 140 0 11 129 0 # of Elderly Program Participants (>62) 8 6 28 76 0 66 10 0 # of Disabled Families 23 10 46 286 0 219 67 0 # of Families requesting accessibility features 39 28 108 573 1 443 129 0 # of HIV/AIDS program participants 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 # of DV victims 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Table 23 – Characteristics of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Alternate Data Source Name: Data from Northampton Housing Authority. Data Source Comments: Data from Northampton Housing Authority added in table attached. April 2015. Avg. Annual Income $13,704 Avg. HH size 1.5 # homeless admissions 10 families Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 56 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) # of Elderly 254 # of Disabled Families 303 # fam. req. accessibility features 39 Table 24 - Public Housing Resident Characteristics (Federal and State Units) Race of Residents Program Type Race Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * White 38 25 104 494 1 411 82 0 0 Black/African American 1 2 3 69 0 22 47 0 0 Asian 0 0 1 4 0 4 0 0 0 American Indian/Alaska Native 0 1 0 5 0 5 0 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 25 – Race of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Alternate Data Source Name: Data from Northampton Housing Authority. Data Source Comments: Data from Northampton Housing Authority added in table attached. April 2015. White 69.84% Black/AA 2.6% A.Indian 1% PI 0 Other 0 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 57 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Hispanic 22.3% Non-Hispanic 77.6% Table 26 - Race and Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents Ethnicity of Residents Program Type Ethnicity Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project - based Tenant - based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * Hispanic 5 2 35 137 0 123 14 0 0 Not Hispanic 34 26 73 436 1 320 115 0 0 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 27 – Ethnicity of Public Housing Residents by Program Type Data Source: PIC (PIH Information Center) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 58 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants on the waiting list for accessible units: All NHA elderly and disabled housing developments meet or exceed Section 504 standards for accessibility. All other NHA developments, including family projects, are at standard 504 levels and are handicap accessible to the extent that building construction allows. Florence Heights and Hampshire Heights (the two public housing developments for families) are not handicap accessible because bedrooms and bathrooms are on the second floor. Two handicapped accessible units are in development at Hampshire Heights; both require state construction and project 200-1 subsidy commitments from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Most immediate needs of residents of Public Housing and Housing Choice voucher holders Federal Public Housing Waiting list total eligible = 279 • Extremely low Income < 30% ami = 246/ 88% of total families • Very Low Income <30% ami but <50% = 30/ 11% of total families • Low Income >50% but < 80% ami = 3/ 1% of total families • Families with Children 91 = 34% of total families • Elderly Families 60 = 22% of total families • Families with Disabilities 155 = 56% of total families 187 are in need of a one bedroom unit. 69 are looking for two bedroom units, 21 are in need of three bedroom units and 2 are waiting for 4 bedroom units. Section 8 Waiting list: 535 total eligible. • ELI = 416/78% of total families • VL = 92/17% of total families • LI = 27/5% of total families • Families with Children = 299/ 56% of total families • Elderly Families = 41/ 8% of total families • Families with Disabilities = 108/20% of total families 226/46% are in need of one bedroom units 167/31% are in need of two bedroom units 123/ 23% are in need of three bedroom units Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 59 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 18/3% are in need of four bedroom units 1/<1% is in need of a five bedroom unit The most immediate need for those waiting for public housing units and Housing Choice vouchers is movement on the lists. The Section 8 waiting list is usually closed and opens maybe every 3-5 years. The NHA estimates they will issue 25 vouchers for use in 2015. How do these needs compare to the housing needs of the population at large The Housing Authority waiting list information reflects the City and regional needs. The highest demand for units is from families with the lowest incomes. These may be households struggling with cost burden in this community, the surrounding cities and towns, or because of universal applications, could be applying from anywhere in the state or nation. There is an over representation of Hispanic families on the waiting list. 35% of applicants are Hispanic, where 8.7% are represented in the total City population. The NHA stats also indicate the large demand for one bedroom units which are in short supply in the City. 78% of all the families on the Section 8 Waiting list have the lowest incomes (<30% ami). Both programs show a disproportionate number of families presenting with disabilities. These could be physical or mental health and/or substance abuse related diagnoses. Further investigation of this data would reveal the need for physical unit modifications, vs. types of supportive services needed. The Federal public housing developments are Florence Heights (50 units)for families and McDonald House (60 units) for elderly/younger disabled. Florence Heights has no one bedroom units, 23 two bedroom units, 22 three bedroom units and 4 four bedroom units. McDonald House has 54 one bedroom units and 6 two bedroom units. Discussion The State of Massachusetts allows housing authorities to cap the percentage of the younger disabled residents in public housing at 13%. The Northampton Housing Authority typically has between 30-50% of younger disabled in their elderly housing units. Law prevents the NHA from segregating younger populations in certain sections of buildings, so there are typically life style clashes and management challenges. The repercussions of that can sometimes yield a low number of elders on the waiting list. If the NHA has vacancies they cannot fill with elders, they can't afford to leave them vacant, so they often get filled with younger disabled. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 60 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-40 Homeless Needs Assessment – 91.205(c) Introduction: With targeted intervention efforts and the evolution of the HMIS system, many chronically homeless have been identified, tracked and housed. In Hampshire County, the emergency shelters in Northampton, Amherst and Easthampton have been able to house those individuals seeking shelter, with a minimal number of turnaways. The number of unsheltered in Northampton fluctuates between 3 and 20 depending on the season. With the outreach clinician from Eliot Homeless Services, we are always able to have an accurate assessment of the number and locations of those living outside. The Northampton Police Department is a partner in these outreach efforts. Those living outside have, in most cases, been offered services, if not housing, but for a myriad of reasons they have not availed themselves of those resources. The Resource Center is always available for securing benefits, such as MassHealth and Foodstamps, as well as attention from the Health Care for the Homeless nurse and doctor. Case Managers are there to link people with housing and employment search. Efforts to end Veterans homelessness are progressing with area partners. The biggest challenge remains family homelessness. Although there are no emergency shelter beds for homeless families anymore in Northampton ( the program moved to Amherst), the City is striving to help ameliorate the epidemic by creating new affordable housing units for low income families. Homeless Needs Assessment Population Estimate the # of persons experiencing homelessness on a given night Estimate the # experiencing homelessness each year Estimate the # becoming homeless each year Estimate the # exiting homelessness each year Estimate the # of days persons experience homelessness Sheltered Unsheltered Persons in Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) 0 22 83 0 20 84 Persons in Households with Only Children 0 0 0 0 0 0 Persons in Households with Only Adults 3 181 402 191 85 104 Chronically Homeless Individuals 1 41 178 0 5 500 Chronically Homeless Families 0 0 0 0 0 0 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 61 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Estimate the # of persons experiencing homelessness on a given night Estimate the # experiencing homelessness each year Estimate the # becoming homeless each year Estimate the # exiting homelessness each year Estimate the # of days persons experience homelessness Sheltered Unsheltered Veterans 0 140 497 271 23 104 Unaccompanied Child 1 0 0 0 0 0 Persons with HIV 0 5 5 0 1 104 Table 28 - Homeless Needs Assessment Data Source Comments: From HMIS Administrator for Three County Continuum of Care. 2015.The Veterans numbers are high due to the presence of Soldier On at the Veterans Administration Campus in Leeds, Northampton. There were also 9 chronically homeless families in the region, consisting of 29 persons, but 0 in Northampton. Indicate if the homeless population is: Has No Rural Homeless If data is not available for the categories "number of persons becoming and exiting homelessness each year," and "number of days that persons experience homelessness," describe these categories for each homeless population type (including chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth): Data is available. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 62 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Nature and Extent of Homelessness: (Optional) Race: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) White 0 0 Black or African American 0 0 Asian 0 0 American Indian or Alaska Native 0 0 Pacific Islander 0 0 Ethnicity: Sheltered: Unsheltered (optional) Hispanic 0 0 Not Hispanic 0 0 Data Source Comments: HMIS Administrator for the Three County Continuum of Care. 2015.Table on page would not save, so table included as an attachment. Race Sheltered Unshelt. White 77% 100% Black 21% 0 Asian 0 0 Am. Ind. 2% 0 P.I. 0 0 Hispanic 9% 0 Not Hisp. 91% 100% Table 29 - Nature and Extent of Homelessness Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance for families with children and the families of veterans. One hundred and nine extremely low income families are in need of housing assistance, including 3 families of Veterans. These families are typically small, with an average of 3 persons per household, including 1 parent, almost always a single mother. The estimate is based on taking 40% of the annual count of homeless families in the CoC. HUD uses national data to indicate that 25% of homeless persons resolve their own homelessness and 35% need some other type of intervention, which leaves 40% in need of housing. There doesn't appear to be strategies specific to estimating family homelessness, so the strategy for individuals was applied. An alternate strategy would be to report that 100% of homeless families are in need of housing assistance. (HMIS Administrator for the CoC) Describe the Nature and Extent of Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 63 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Homeless individuals in the City and within the region are mostly white males, whose race and ethnicity reflect the race and ethnicity of the general population (76% White, 24% persons of Color). In contrast, homeless families are significantly more likely to be Hispanic than not; 53% of persons in families who were homeless during 2014 were Hispanic as compared to only 5% of persons in the general population within the region. There appeared to be more Spanish speaking guests than ever before at the Inter- faith Winter shelter. The stats for the program year have not been compiled yet, as the shelter closes for the season on April 30th. Data will be checked to assess this and to make programmatic and staffing changes if necessary to better accommodate non-English speaking homeless guests. (HMIS Administrator for the CoC) Describe the Nature and Extent of Unsheltered and Sheltered Homelessness. The rate of sheltered homelessness in the CoC is about 34 persons per every 10,000 persons.This rate is higher than state and national rates.28% of all homeless persons in the CoC live in shelters in Northampton.Sheltered homelessness in the city has stayed steady for the last 3 years while in the CoC it has increased.In contrast, unsheltered homelessness has declined steadily; during the 2015 Point in Time Count, only 3 individuals were unsheltered in the city, representing 16% of all unsheltered persons enumerated in the region on the night of the count. Unsheltered Homeless - There are 6-15 unsheltered individuals living outside in Northampton at any given point.Camps tend to be scattered in the “Meadows” which are isolated lands along the Connecticut River.The Street Outreach clinician (Eliot Homeless Services) visits the camps and is familiar with the population.Most are actively abusing substances and are not interested in services.Some come in to the Inter-Faith Shelter during the winter, then go back outside during the warmer months.The population consists primarily of older males, rarely youth or females.The unsheltered count this past year is not that accurate, due to the extreme cold.It is assumed many people were doubled up in the SRO’s or housing authority units during that week.3 people were located; the number is usually 4-6. At the monthly Next Step Collaborative meetings, City staff stay attuned to the trends.Regular updates are given on shelter capacity, street & unsheltered counts, and issues in the SRO’s.If there is increased activity in Hampden County, it has repercussions for the numbers in Hampshire County. We do see many individuals coming to the Interfaith Shelter with reports they do not want to stay at the Worthington Street Homeless Shelter in Springfield.That facility accommodates around 165 people nightly.They (Worthington Street in Springfield) also experience influx from the Worcester area as a result of the shelter closing there.Our local programs (Inter-Faith winter shelter and the Grove Street Inn year round shelter, both for individuals) are each 20-24 in capacity and tend to be less chaotic.Since Amherst opened their winter shelter, and it is “wetter” than the one in Northampton, many individuals that used to be here are across the bridge and opt to stay outside in Amherst for the summer.The trend last summer was more new faces, but the numbers stayed about the same.An unsheltered family has never been located during any Northampton Point in Time count.The assumption is they are doubled up, or perhaps living in their vehicles and undetected.We do not have an emergency shelter for families.Those that are identified are referred to Jessie’s House in Amherst. Sheltered Homeless - During the extreme cold, guests are accommodated on couches in order to keep people from being outside.The Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 64 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) City set up a shelter at a school during the most severe weather (only one family from a surrounding community came).This past winter was extremely challenging weather wise.ServiceNet staff put in countless extra hours keeping the Resource Center and shelters open so people could be inside.During 2014-15 the Inter-Faith Shelter served 263 individuals in the six month program and the Grove Street Inn served 116 in the year round program. The winter shelter is open from November 1 to April 30th.The numbers served were anticipated to be 210. That number was exceeded and has increased over the years.The Case management occurs at the Resource Center. The Benefits Analyst and the Health Care for the Homeless Nurse are also there.More new faces are being seen, some for short periods of stay and more are Spanish speaking than ever before. The numbers of women have increased to the point where dorm rooms are switched around to accommodate that influx. Discussion: When ServiceNet added the 6 beds at the Easthampton annex to address Northampton's overflow years ago and Amherst opened their shelter several years ago, our capacity issues stabilized. The Interfaith Shelter did have turn-aways this past year but the primary reason was for intoxication rather than for lack of capacity. Tracking the numbers of unsheltered during the late summer help plan for the fall and winter. So far, we have not had to create additional overflow beds beyond the Easthampton Annex. Amherst coming on line with their facility, and the increase in beds for women there, was a huge contribution to the regional system. The city supports the existing emergency shelter system through CDBG allocations to the Inter-Faith Winter shelter and the Grove Street Inn. The City CDBG Administrator serves on the Management Committee for the winter shelter, collects the personal hygiene supplies and does an overnight once a month to stay in touch with the programs and populations. Safe Passage operates their emergency shelter for victims of domestic violence and does extensive local and regional fundraising. Soldier On has 13 emergency shelter beds funded by the grant per diem program from the U.S. Veterans Administration. During 2014, 211 unduplicated persons exited the Inter-faith Shelter or the Grove Street Inn. Of those, 43 had a "positive exit", meaning an exit to some type of housing rather than homelessness. 21% of those exiting found some type of housing. 9 report moving to subsidized housing; 4%. With the intensive work the City of Springfield is doing to house their chronically homeless and homeless individuals, and the amazing work of the REACH Program, (monthly meetings with case advocates doing housing search and placement for the chronically homeless) Northampton's numbers have stayed relatively constant. With Soldier On increasing their housing programs at the Leeds Campus, Springfield participating in Zero2016 and the coordinated case management efforts occurring through the CoC and Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness, the need for additional shelter beds is not anticipated for the next 5 years. Our focus is on sustaining the current shelter system, but trying not to expand it. Rather, we are focusing on creating permanent supported housing opportunities. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 65 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-45 Non-Homeless Special Needs Assessment - 91.205 (b,d) Introduction: Special needs populations considered in program planning in Northampton include the elderly, the disabled, people with mental health and/or substance abuse issues, people inflicted with HIV/AIDS, people with developmental disabilities and people experiencing domestic violence. Describe the characteristics of special needs populations in your community: Elder Households: The population of those 50 years old and older is expected to increase substantially over the next few years with residents 50 to 64 increasing by 44%. Those 65 and over will increase by 16% between 2000 and 2014. The numbers of children are declining. In the year 2000, those aged 55 to 65+ comprised 22% of the total population. 2014 projection estimates tally those 65 to 74 as 8.4% of the population, 75-84 at 4.7% and ages 85+ at 3.4%. For those able to remain in their own homes, Meals on Wheels and Highland Valley Elder Services, as well as home modifications for accessibility will become increasingly important resources. Households with Disabled Members: According to the Housing Plan of 2011, of the 2000 residents aged 5-20, 539 or 9.1% had some disability. For those 21-64, 2,650 residents, or 15% of those in that age range claimed a disability. Roughly 58% of this group was employed, leaving another 432% unemployed, likely due to their disability. For those 65 and older, 1,227 seniors or 37.9% of people in that age group claimed some form of disability. These levels of disability represent significant special needs within the City. People struggling with Mental Health issues: are usually on fixed incomes and cannot find apartments in Northampton without rental subsidies. DMH clients may struggle with financial instability, hoarding issues, difficulty living in congregate settings and the need to be close to counseling and treatment locations. People struggling with Substance Abuse issues: often find themselves with poor work histories, poor credit histories, inadequate landlord references, often with criminal records and a lack of support systems. If one decides to enter a treatment facility, there are none in Northampton. Detox beds need to be identified in either Greenfield, Holyoke or Pittsfield and transportation needs to be found. If there is a delay in either finding an open bed or getting someone there, the moment of willingness to seek treatment may be lost. We have seen several unsheltered homeless pass away in the last few years as their bodies can no longer tolerate the alcohol consumption. The Street Outreach Worker predicts there will be more. A local memorial service is always held to honor their lives and their struggle. Acute care can be secured at the Cooley Dickinson Hospital when necessary, however. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 66 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) People Living with HIV/AIDS: have difficulty finding housing outside of Holyoke and Springfield. They are often Spanish speaking with low household incomes. The group reported on by A Positive Place that struggles with the highest acuity needs is the transgendered minority population. People with Developmental Disabilities: According to the Department of Developmental Services Area Director for Franklin/Hampshire, 23 clients live in subsidized housing in Northampton, and 26 others are in homes subsidized by DDS and run by provider agencies. They estimate 10 clients waiting for housing in Northampton. Victims of Domestic Violence: are in need of safe and secure affordable housing away from abusers. Characteristics may include economic control and abuse by their partner, money being spent on other than housing costs, credit and landlord references being negatively impacted by partner, debt accumulation in partners name, threatened family members so they are afraid to assist the survivor, workplace harassment, children being in danger at school or daycare, inability to retrieve household goods and paperwork if flee, housing is put at risk for lessee if families are doubled up for safety. For young adults who have been abused as children, turning 18 becomes a risk factor. Adult children may continue to be abused at home, but child protective services no longer has jurisdiction. Young adults may need to leave but have no work history or credit standing. What are the housing and supportive service needs of these populations and how are these needs determined? The housing and supportive needs of special populations are determined through an assessment process that includes interviews with the client and/or guardian and family members as well as records reviews. For most special needs populations: Physical Accessibility of units is a paramount concern. Universal design elements should be incorporated into any housing expansion or new development. Proximity to downtown: since many experience travel limitations, easy access to services reduces the likelihood of people becoming isolated and unable to get needed goods and services. Access to transportation: Housing along transportation routes and access to transportation is important for those who can utilize it. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 67 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Supportive Environments: Spaces for community gatherings, such as community rooms promote socialization. Resident Services Coordinators: Residencies tend to be more successful and fulfilling when there is on site staff to promote activities and case management. Recognition of Live-In Support: Some people require overnight staffing assistance and therefore should be eligible for two bedroom units. Stable housing is a critical component of treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Persons with AIDS are impacted by the lack of affordable housing and many have difficulty accessing affordable housing due to substance abuse and mental health issues and histories of incarceration. Elderly have the option of applying for public housing units. There is a Mixed Populations Coordinator on site to assist with the younger disabled/elderly management challenges. There is a Highland Valley Elder services meal site at Salvo House, which is directly adjacent to the Northampton Senior Center. The Christopher Heights Assisted Living Development at Village Hill has just broken ground. 43 of the 83 units will be affordable. As ones medical needs increase, there are 4 nursing homes in the City. An Alzheimers Unit was just opened adjacent to the Linda Manor Nursing Home. Discuss the size and characteristics of the population with HIV/AIDS and their families within the Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area: The Eligible Metropolitan Statistical Area is comprised of Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties. Within the EMSA, the majority of persons living with HIV/AIDS live in Hampden County. According to the City of Springfield ConPlan draft and the 2013 Massachusetts Regional HIV/AIDS Epidemiological Profile, the EMSA has 1900 persons living with HIV/Aids. Of these,84 % are in Hampden County, 7.8% are in Hampshire County and 3.6% are in Franklin County. Of the total EMSA persons living with HIV/AIDS, 1050 live in the City of Springfield. The City averages 32 new cases per year. In the EMSA, 63% of the people living with HIV/AIDS are men and 37% are women. Hispanics are overrepresented in the population. 50% of persons living with HIV/Aids are Hispanic, 28.6% are Non- Hispanic White and 18.6% are Black. The highest contributing factor to HIV infection is injection drug use. That is the mode of exposure for 31% of persons with HIV/Aids in Hampden County. Other modes of exposure are male to male sex (25.1%), heterosexual sex (17.9%), undetermined (21.7%) and other combinations of activity. 82% of those living with HIV/AIDS are 40 years or older. Discussion: The City needs to make a concerted effort to integrate special needs housing, units that are handicapped accessible and housing with supportive services, into its planning for affordable housing development. The two affordable housing projects being pursued will make contributions towards that Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 68 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) goal. The Valley CDC's Lumberyard Project will include 2 two bedroom apartments reserved for the Mass. Rehabilitation Commission's Community Based Housing Program, 3 fully accessible handicap units and 1 unit for the sensory impaired. HAPHousing's 129 Pleasant Street project will include 5 apartments for clients of the Department of Mental Health through the Facilities Consolidated Fund, 4 units will be fully handicap accessible and 2 units will be equipped to accommodate residents with visual and hearing impairments. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 69 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) NA-50 Non-Housing Community Development Needs – 91.215 (f) Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Facilities: Need for Public Facilities The only public facilities projects identified at this time are the Vernon Street School and the Jackson Street Playground installation project. Vernon Street School, no longer used as a school, is home to Community Action’s HeadStart program and various other programs. The school is in need of a new heating plant and accessibility modifications. Community Action leases the school from the City and has some of its own funds for capital improvements. Those funds may be insufficient to cover all the costs associated with needed improvements. CDBG funds may be utilized once the extent of the work becomes known. The Jackson Street elementary school PTO successfully raised over 200,000 dollars to create a new playspace. $30,000 of CDBG funds will be used to purchase pieces specifically to be utilized for children with disabilities. The Senior Center, originally constructed with CDBG funds, is not eligible for operating costs from CDBG, so City coffers are tapped for maintenance and other expenditures there. The Forbes Library has (finally) successfully fundraised for their elevator installation. CDBG funds were used for construction drawings. Installation is occurring at this time and will be completed in late summer of 2015. The Community Preservation Act local funds matched by the State for historic preservation have become a huge source for capital improvements at this facility, so no additional CDBG allocations are anticipated. The James House, the city owned community learning center, home to The Literacy Project, the Center for New Americans and the Pioneer Valley Workers Center, has no additional rehab projects scheduled. The building has been renovated, painted, the front porch secured and is a successful venture coordinating adult basic education programming which regional community colleges and social service partners. How were these needs determined? Needs are determined by consultations with the Mayor and Department heads, particularly the Director of Central Services, the division in charge of all City buildings and schools. Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Improvements: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 70 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The projects for which CDBG expenditures have been allocated are construction of a sidewalk at a low income condominium development and installation of crosswalk signals to aid the visually impaired. The Director of the Department of Public Works has not indicated that there are other projects they would like to use CDBG funding for in the future. There are many street and sidewalk improvements needed in certain areas, such as the downtown that are not CDBG eligible. Pulaski Park, the primary park downtown is undergoing a complete renovation, but funds secured (in excess of two million dollars) are through a State PARC grant and Community Preservation Act funds. How were these needs determined? Needs are determined by consultation with the Mayor and the Director of the Department of Public Works. Also, City Councilors hear about issues with streets and sidewalks from their constituents. Describe the jurisdiction’s need for Public Services: There are 12-15 projects funded annually. Generally, the projects funded address emergency shelter staffing capacity, outreach and information referral services for the Latino community, soup kitchen operating costs, language and job readiness services for immigrants and refugees, youth employment readiness training, mentoring for low income youth, eviction intervention for housing stabilization and homelessness prevention, home visits and meals for the elderly and adult basic education for income maximization and economic empowerment. How were these needs determined? The need for new projects is assessed from information gleaned by City staff at the Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness Leadership Council and committee meetings ( Individual Services Committee, Family Services Committee, Housing Sex-Offenders, Unaccompanied Youth), monthly meetings of the Northampton Housing Partnership, monthly meetings of the Next Step Collaborative ( housing and homeless service providers) and other consultation venues. The ad hoc Public Services Review Committee is composed of 3 City Councilors from the Council Committee on Social Services and Veterans Affairs, a rep from the Friends of the Homeless and Human Rights Commission, and a downtown clergy person. They meet ahead of time to determine the high priority needs to direct the allocations process, based on what they bring from their own experience and observations and staff input. Most years the focus has been on sheltering, food security and economic empowerment. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 71 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Market Analysis MA-05 Overview Housing Market Analysis Overview: More than half of Northampton’s housing stock is owner occupied. The 2007 and 2008 rates show reductions in rental-occupancy, suggesting that new housing growth has focused on owner-occupied units and likely conversions of rental units to owner occupancy, confirmed by building permit data. Housing growth has occurred despite small population declines, reflecting increasing numbers of smaller households. Housing prices remain high despite the recent economic decline and flat sales elsewhere. There was a period where prices soared after the 2000 census. There was a leveling off period during the housing market crisis and the ability to obtain financing became increasingly difficult. Prices are starting to increase again. Due to the popularity of Northampton as a community in which to live, the housing market crash did not have a significant impact here. Traditionally our market seems to be relatively immune to outside fluctuations. Realtors report rarely having enough inventory to meet the buyer demand. According to the Warren Group, the median home sales price was $260,750 in 2010, up from $250,000 in 2008. The average list price in February 2015 was $328,000; that compares to $300,300 in Hadley, $271,700 in Hatfield, $268,000 in Westhampton, $260,100 in Southampton, $257,400 in Williamsburg, $219,300 in Goshen, $218,800 in Easthampton, $195,800 in S. Hadley and $166,500 in Holyoke and $138,684 in Springfield. The median home value in Northampton in 2015 is $272,200. Northampton home values have gone up 4.4% over the past year and sites predict they will rise 4.0% within the next year. In the rental market in 2000, roughly 60% of the City’s rental units were renting in the $500 to $1,000 price range, with the median being $647. Since then, rental prices have increased significantly. The lowest rent advertised in 2009 was $850 for a one bedroom and $950 for a two bedroom. The median rent price for a two bedroom in Northampton now is $1,325, which is higher than the Springfield metro area median of $960. A strong rental market has pushed rents well beyond the means of most low and moderate income households. Foreclosures may be a factor impacting home values in the next several years. In Northampton 1.4 homes are foreclosed (per 10,000). This is lower than the Springfield Metro value of 3.4 and also lower than the national value of 3.0. Mortgage delinquency is the first step in the foreclosure process. This is when a homeowner fails to make a mortgage payment. The percent of delinquent mortgages in Northampton is 2.1%, which is lower than the national value of 6.3%. With U.S. home values having fallen by more than 20% nationally Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 72 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) from their peak in 2007 until their trough in late 2011, many homeowners are now underwater on their mortgages, meaning they owe more than their home is worth. The percent of Northampton homeowners underwater on their mortgage is 6.2%, which is lower than Springfield Metro at 14.4%, but still problematic. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 73 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-10 Number of Housing Units – 91.210(a)&(b)(2) Introduction In reviewing changes in the housing stock since 1980, a number of important trends become apparent: • Continued housing growth: Housing growth has continued in Northampton despite an overall population decrease, largely reflective of the formation of smaller households. While 1,745 new housing units were created between 1980 and 2000, the rate of growth has slowed down from a growth rate of 10.2% between 1980 and 1990, to 5.6% from 1990 to 2000, and to 2.6% between 2000 and 2010. • Decrease in persons per unit. Average household size continues to drop, although at a slower rate than it did between 1960 and 2000. Consequently, new housing units do not necessarily translate into more people. The average number of persons per unit declined between 1980 and 2000 from 2.54 persons to 2.44 persons for owner-occupied units and from 1990 to 2000 from 1.95 to 1.79 persons for rental units. This decrease reflects local, regional and national trends towards smaller household sizes and relates to the change in the average household size in Northampton from 2.45 persons in 1990 to 2.14 in 2000. • Limited growth in rental units: After an increase of 642 rental units between 1980 and 1990, Northampton gained only 42 rental units from 1990 to 2000, most likely related to limited new construction and the conversion of rentals to homeownership through condominium conversions. Since 2000, the only new rental apartments that have been built in the City have occurred with public subsidies, mainly through The Village at Hospital Hill and some small developments sponsored by the Valley CDC, or the accessory apartment ordinance. Northampton’s rental units are distributed throughout the housing stock with 82% of the total 5,524 occupied rental units in 2000 in structures of three (3) or more units. • Tight market conditions. Vacancy rates for both rental and ownership housing were well below 5% indicative of an extremely tight housing market. These rates were substantially lower than the state and national rates. • Loss of small multi-family units. The U.S. Census estimates that from April 1, 2000 to July 1, 2007, 270 new dwelling units were built but 229 units were lost either to other uses, or conversions of two-family dwellings to single-family homes. Moreover, the number of two- family homes decreased from 1,722 such units in 1980 to only 1,529 in 2000, representing the loss of a valuable segment of the city’s existing housing stock. All residential properties by number of units Property Type Number % 1-unit detached structure 5,754 46% 1-unit, attached structure 656 5% 2-4 units 3,081 24% 5-19 units 2,093 17% Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 74 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Property Type Number % 20 or more units 970 8% Mobile Home, boat, RV, van, etc 47 0% Total 12,601 100% Table 30 – Residential Properties by Unit Number Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Unit Size by Tenure Owners Renters Number % Number % No bedroom 36 1% 305 6% 1 bedroom 266 4% 2,025 40% 2 bedrooms 1,855 27% 1,885 37% 3 or more bedrooms 4,618 68% 863 17% Total 6,775 100% 5,078 100% Table 31 – Unit Size by Tenure Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Describe the number and targeting (income level/type of family served) of units assisted with federal, state, and local programs. According to the Dept. of Housing and Community Development’s Subsidized Housing Inventory, 12.07% of the City’s housing inventory is defined as subsidized. That equates to 1,521 units which are owned and managed by a variety of non-profit organizations and the Northampton Housing Authority. The inventory listing the units is in the appendix (B). There has been no particular targeting strategy for the units added to the inventory over the last several decades. However, with the two new affordable housing developments proposed for Pleasant Street, HAPHousing focused on the need for studio and one bedroom units to meet the needs of the existing tenant population which will be relocated and rehoused at the new building and to meet the documented demand for smaller units. The Lumberyard project is targeted for low income families, mostly two bedrooms, but some one and three bedroom units. The two developments will house different populations and together, will address the need for affordable rental units for individual and family households. Provide an assessment of units expected to be lost from the affordable housing inventory for any reason, such as expiration of Section 8 contracts. Hathaway Farms, the second largest expiring use property in the community, may be lost from the inventory this year. It converted from affordable to market rate housing in the early 1990’s. Through a contribution to the Affordable Housing Trust from the property owner in the amount of $500,000 and local fundraising of $120,000, subsidies were able to be provided to income eligible households for an additional 7 years. Spear Management also participated in the 80/20 Loan Program through Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 75 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MassHousing. When that expired (2014), it put the complex below the 25% unit threshold for being able to count the total number of units on the inventory. Official notification has not been received, but the assumption is 207 units will be lost on the total count. Leeds Village, a 17 unit apartment building owned by Mt. Holyoke Management expires in 2018. MassHousing has some new loan products that we are hopeful the owner will utilize. City staff has been in contact with the owner who seems interested, but was told by the State it was too early to have specific discussions. This situation will be monitored. The majority of the units on the list have either been created new, or refinanced and have expiration dates late in 2030 and beyond, or are protected in perpetuity. Does the availability of housing units meet the needs of the population? With the total number of households being 11,853 in 2011 and the number of units being 12,604, one could assume there is enough housing to meet the needs of the population. However, with further analysis, however, the type of units available do not meet the needs of the population. Describe the need for specific types of housing: According to the Housing Plan 2011, a high priority need is providing housing for those whose incomes do not exceed $1,000 per month. This is what the Federal government refers to as living at 100% of poverty level. There is a clear need for enhanced SRO units, efficiency or studio apartments, or one bedroom units for those with lower incomes. Some of these individuals have disabilities. Some are younger, looking for opportunities to live in Northampton, some are older, some are reentering the community after incarceration, some are recent immigrants working in local businesses with limited pay. Some are trying to exit homelessness. Those with Section 8 vouchers have experienced difficulty finding suitable housing in the private market due to high rents. Single people compose 37% of all households and 74% of non-family households in 2000. About half of all residents over 65 lived alone. 32% of elderly renters, or 260 seniors earning at or below 50% of area median income, were paying too much for housing including 11.5% who were spending at least half their income on housing. Most seniors earning fixed incomes and relying substantially on Social Security find that when they lose their spouse, their income is insufficient to afford their current housing and other expenses. In addition, the vacancy rate is 3% or less, making for a very tight rental market. Through consultations with service providers, new SRO units and a Safe Haven type program to serve chronically homeless, were identified as high priority needs. The city has lost over half of its SRO stock since the 1980’s. There is also a significant need to house families, particularly those earning within the poverty level. The number of two person households comprise almost one third of all households (4,000) yet smaller units are in short supply. Almost half the households with children are headed by a single parent, suggesting a compelling need for affordable family housing with only one income. In 2000, Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 76 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 27.4% of all small family renters, or 330 families, were spending too much on housing costs, including 110 families earning at or below 30% ami. The wait for a unit in one of the Housing Authority’s family units is 2 years and longer for those with larger families. The wait list for subsidies is 3-6 years. The large gap between incomes and entry costs for homeownership force first time homebuyers to look outside of Northampton. The scarcity of affordable rentals, particularly those with supportive services is also problematic for those transitioning out of homeless shelters and special needs programs. Discussion Information from the Housing Authority on their waiting lists for various programs is a good indicator of the demand and the types of units people are looking for. For the Federal public housing (McDonald House for Elderly/Younger Disabled and Florence Heights Family Housing): Total Eligible on the waiting list = 279; Annual Turnover is 10. Of the 279, 246 are extremely low income (88% of total families, at less than 30% ami. 30 of the 279 are >30 but < 50% ami (11% of total families). 3 of the 279 are >50% but <80% of ami (1% of total families). 91 are families with children (34% of the total); 60 are elderly (22% of the total); 155 are families with disabilities (56% of total). 198, or 71% of the total number of families are White, 12, or 4% of the total are Black, 98, or 35% are Hispanic and 3, or 3% are Asian. 187 are on the list for a one bedroom unit, 69 for a two bedroom, 21 for a three bedroom and 2 for a four bedroom unit. The waiting list for the public housing units is currently open. Specifically for the family development of 50 units, Florence Heights, 56 families are waiting for a two bedroom unit, 17 are waiting for a three bedroom unit, and 1 is waiting for a four bedroom unit (there are 4). Many families are on both the Federal and State waiting lists, so the numbers are not mutually exclusive. State Aided Public Housing Waits lists and development descriptions are as follows: Elderly Housing Waiting List: Tobin (47 units), Forsander (72 units) , Cahill (64 units) and Salvo House (192); 138 waiting for one bedroom units; 1 waiting for a 2 bedroom unit. State Public Family Housing - Hampshire Heights (80) 70 families are waiting for 2 bedroom units, 24 for three bedroom units and 0 for four bedroom units (there are 2, both handicap accessible) State Street 667 6 units) 8 are waiting for one bedroom units State - 689 Special Needs Housing/ Bridge Street SRO (7 units) Grace House - leased through the Dept. of Public Health Mary McColgan apartments - leased through the Dept. of Mental Health Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 77 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) State - Chapter 705 Michelman Ave. (4 units, all 2 bedroom handicap accessible) For the Section 8 program, there are 535 on the waiting list. The NHA estimates they will issue 25 vouchers in 2015. 416 are extremely low income families, 78% at < 30% ami, 92 or 17% of the total are very low income at >30 but <50% ami and 27, or 5% of the total have low incomes >50% but <80% ami. 299, or 56% of the families on the waiting list have children, 41 or 8% are elderly and 108 or 20% of the total are families with disabilities. 226 (46%) want a one bedroom unit; 167 (31%) are in need of a two bedroom unit; 123 ( 23%) are in need of a three bedroom unit and 18 (3%) need four bedroom units. The Section 8 waiting list is currently closed. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 78 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-15 Housing Market Analysis: Cost of Housing - 91.210(a) Introduction The 2000 census shows the median house value as $144,600, up 8.8% from the median in 1990 of $132,900, but up about 280% since 1980 when the median was $38,200.There were 555 units valued at less than $100,000 in 2000, and 2,217, or 43.6% of the housing stock valued between $100,000 and $150,000. More than half of the city’s housing units were relatively affordable at that time. Still another 1,101 units or 21.7% were valued between $150,000 and $200,000. 390 units, or 7.8% of the housing stock was priced at $300,000 or more. In 2000, housing prices in Northampton were only a bit higher than those for Hampshire County, with a median house value of $142,400. The median price was somewhat lower than the state’s median of $162,800. Current sales data for 2015 show the average list price for a home sale is $328,000 and an average rental rate for a two bedroom unit is $1,200 to 1,600/ per month. Cost of Housing Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2011 % Change Median Home Value 147,100 278,600 89% Median Contract Rent 578 788 36% Table 32 – Cost of Housing Data Source: 2000 Census (Base Year), 2007-2011 ACS (Most Recent Year) Rent Paid Number % Less than $500 1,245 24.5% $500-999 2,648 52.2% $1,000-1,499 965 19.0% $1,500-1,999 177 3.5% $2,000 or more 43 0.9% Total 5,078 100.0% Table 33 - Rent Paid Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Housing Affordability % Units affordable to Households earning Renter Owner 30% HAMFI 7,210 No Data 50% HAMFI 21,140 540 80% HAMFI 36,680 2,870 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 79 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) % Units affordable to Households earning Renter Owner 100% HAMFI No Data 7,090 Total 65,030 10,500 Table 34 – Housing Affordability Alternate Data Source Name: Housing Needs Assessment Strategic Plan 2011 Data Source Comments: Numbers pre-populated by HUD are incorrect. See the attached table for corrected information and analysis. Affordability Analysis Maximum Affordable Prices Based on Income Levels Monthly Rent Monthly Rent ($) Efficiency (no bedroom) 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Bedroom Fair Market Rent 624 748 935 0 0 High HOME Rent 634 761 951 0 0 Low HOME Rent 634 761 951 0 0 Table 35 – Monthly Rent Data Source Comments: Is there sufficient housing for households at all income levels? According to the data, there are 12,604 housing units and 11,853 households, so one could assume there is sufficient supply. However, there is a significant affordability gap. In the past, it was fairly easy for purchasers to limit their down payments on mortgage financing to 5% or even less if they paid private mortgage insurance or qualified for a subsidized mortgage program such as the state’s Soft Second Loan Program. Given the recent financial crisis, lenders are now applying rigid lending criteria including the need for 20% down payments. Such high cash requirements make homeownership, particularly first-time homeownership, much more difficult. A household earning the same level of income can acquire a much higher priced home with more cash down. On the rental side, a two-person household earning 60% of area median income , $37,260 annually, could afford a monthly rental of about $800, assuming they are paying no more than 30% of their income on housing and pay utility bills that average about $135/mo. A rental rate this low is extremely difficult to find in Northampton. Also most landlords require first and last month’s rent and a security deposit equivalent to a month’s rent. Someone earning minimum wage of $8.00 for 40 hours per week every week during the year would earn a gross income of $16,640. Households with two persons earning the minimum wage would still fall short of the $38,000 income needed to afford this rent. This means that any household looking to rent in the private housing market must have a considerable amount of cash available, which has a significant impact on affordability. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 80 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) There is also a unit mix gap. Those units most appropriate for single persons, with three rooms or less, comprise only 21% of the housing stock. The 2014 estimate for single individuals as a percentage of the total population is 79%. Excerpts of the Affordability Analysis compiled for the Housing Plan are included in the Appendix (C). How is affordability of housing likely to change considering changes to home values and/or rents? Now that the housing crisis is coming to a close, home sales prices and rental rates are only going to increase. There has been a decline in the number of two family homes, largely due to conversions to single family units. Roughly 200 rental units in owner-occupied homes were lost. Most of those units were probably affordable, as private landlords, particularly owner occupied, often charged below market rents to maintain their long term tenants. That also represents loss of affordable homeownership stock where owners are able to purchase because rental income helps them finance the home. 75% of our housing stock is contained in structures with 4 units or less. (76.9% in 1980, 75% in 2000). As our population of smaller unit property owners’ age and sell, purchase and carrying costs for new owners necessitate that they charge higher rents. As stated in the Housing Plan “The convergence of demographic and housing trends – increasing numbers of households, lower incomes, increasing poverty, rising prices, lower housing production, declining supply of rentals, difficulty in obtaining financing, large up-front cash requirements for homeownership and rentals – all point to a growing affordability gap! This gap is reinforced by 2000 census data that indicated about 3,000 households or one-quarter of all Northampton households were living in housing that was by common definition beyond their means and unaffordable as they were paying more than 30% of their income on housing. If these demographic and housing trends are left to evolve unchecked, Northampton will lose ground on its ability to be a place where families across a full range of economic and social strata can call home. How do HOME rents / Fair Market Rent compare to Area Median Rent? How might this impact your strategy to produce or preserve affordable housing? Market rents in Northampton exceed fair market rent rates established by HUD. We are not a participating jurisdiction for HOME. The FMR rates for Northampton are too low. Northampton being included in the Springfield SMSA has always been problematic. We have had several task forces over the years strategize around this issue. U.S. Congressional action is required to remove Northampton from the MSA. The alternate strategy has been to adopt exception rent rates. The Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 81 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Amherst Housing Authority went to 120% several years ago. They have higher rents in their 40th percentile units because of the competition of college students in that area. Northampton adopted a 110% rate. They have not increased it. In 2014, the Board of Commissioners voted that the Payment Standard for 2014 will remain the same. The Section 8 Program Director says that although they would like to increase the payment standard, they ended the last fiscal year with $40,000 (down from $525,000 at the start of the year) in the Net Restricted Assets. Given a utility allowance increase and expected increases in reasonable rent increases requested by landlords, along with the uncertainty of Congressional funding of their budget authority, the Board opted to keep the rate the same. They also feel that they can serve fewer people if they increase the rate. Additionally, if the exception payment standard is too high, all of the allowable increase is borne by the tenant which creates additional cost burden on the household. According to the NHA Executive Director, increasing the FMR itself codifies real rental rates and allows families to pay closer to 30% of their incomes for rent in a wider variety of apartments. Raising the payment standard puts the burden above that threshold, which is not the goal. The service providers traditionally report that certificate holders can’t find apartments to rent in Northampton. In 2010 (most recent data) when new certificates were issued 4 out of 11 found apartments in Northampton. The waiting list is composed of many households from other areas and may have children in those school systems. Therefore they might not want to live here. This continues to be a point of discussion. More recent data will be collected and analyzed. Easy solutions have not been identified to date. Discussion According to 2010 Census figures, median homeowner monthly costs are $1,775 in the City, $2,100 in the State and $1,524 in the country. Median rent in the City is $753, $873 in the State and $699 in the country. 37.6% of the population has a mortgage, compared to 41.7% in the State and 39.8% in the country. .7% pay less than $500 a month for the mortgage, compared to .6% in the State and 2.1% in the country. 9.1% pay between $500-999 for the mortgage, 6.3% in the State and 19.8% in the country. 23.4% pay between $1,000 and $1,499 a month for their mortgage, compared to 16.6 across the State and 27.1% in the country. 31.6% pay between $1,500 and $1,999 in Northampton, compared to 22.4 in the State and 19.9% in the country. 25.3% pay between $2,000 and $2,999 a month for their mortgage, compared to 34% in the State and 19.4% in the country. 9.9% of the homeowner households in Northampton pay more than $3,000 a month for their mortgage, compared to 20% in the State and 11.7% across the nation. 9.8% of renter households in Northampton pay less than $300/mo, compared to 11.4% in the State and 9% in the country. 10.6% pay between 300-499, compared to 8.8% in the State and 16.3% in the country. 20% of local renter households pay between 500-699 a month, compared to 13.3% in the State and 21.9% in the country; 36.3% pay between 700-999 a month for rent, compared to 24.8 in the state Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 82 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) and 24% in the country; 16.7% pay between $1,000- 1,499 for rent compared to 25% in the State and 15.3% in the country.2.7% pay $1,500-$1,999 compared to 8.9% in the State and 5% in the country and .3% of renter households in Northampton pay more than $2,000 a month compared to 4.2% in the State and 2.8% in the country. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 83 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-20 Housing Market Analysis: Condition of Housing – 91.210(a) Introduction Based on the data, one would assume that unit condition is far less of an issue here than cost burden (although the data does not isolate the Conditions). According to the data below, 98% of the rental housing units exhibit one selected condition or less. 99% of the homeownership units exhibit one condition or less. That speaks to a relatively sound housing stock physically. Based on the age of the stock and visual site surveys, however, there is a strong assumption that many homes have code violations and are in definite need of exterior rehabilitation, some structural and many cosmetic. There are rarely tax title or abandoned properties in Northampton and very few reach the state of needing to be condemned. Definitions A building is considered to be substandard if it fails to comply with minimum standards of habitability according to the Massachusetts State Sanitary Code , M.G.L. c.111, section 127 A-I. A building that is suitable for rehabilitation is one where the overall condition of the building is not structurally deficient and not a threat to public safety. Condition of Units Condition of Units Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % With one selected Condition 2,076 31% 2,227 44% With two selected Conditions 14 0% 66 1% With three selected Conditions 0 0% 29 1% With four selected Conditions 0 0% 0 0% No selected Conditions 4,685 69% 2,756 54% Total 6,775 100% 5,078 100% Table 36 - Condition of Units Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Year Unit Built Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % 2000 or later 446 7% 173 3% 1980-1999 1,075 16% 506 10% 1950-1979 2,074 31% 1,600 32% Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 84 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Year Unit Built Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % Before 1950 3,180 47% 2,799 55% Total 6,775 101% 5,078 100% Table 37 – Year Unit Built Data Source: 2007-2011 CHAS Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Risk of Lead-Based Paint Hazard Owner-Occupied Renter-Occupied Number % Number % Total Number of Units Built Before 1980 5,254 78% 4,399 87% Housing Units build before 1980 with children present 470 7% 420 8% Table 38 – Risk of Lead-Based Paint Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS (Total Units) 2007-2011 CHAS (Units with Children present) Vacant Units Suitable for Rehabilitation Not Suitable for Rehabilitation Total Vacant Units 34 34 68 Abandoned Vacant Units 2 2 4 REO Properties 13 0 13 Abandoned REO Properties 0 0 0 Table 39 - Vacant Units Alternate Data Source Name: Housing Needs Assessment Strategic Plan 2011 Data Source Comments: Based on REOdev.com survey April 2015 and extrapolation from Housing Plan, pg. 29 Vacancy rates by Tenure.Tenure 1990 2000 MA 2000 Nation 2000Rental 3.4% 2.9% 3.5% 5%Homeowner 1.7% 0.7% 0.7% 3% Need for Owner and Rental Rehabilitation A substantial portion of Northampton’s housing stock, (45.4% or 5,638 units) predates World War II. Additionally, almost another 30% or 3,484 units were built between 1940 and 1970, with another 1,500 units built between 1970 and 1980. Only 823 units were built more recently, between 1980 and 2000, representing only 6.6% of the housing stock up to that point. Because of the relative age of the existing housing stock, it is likely that many units may have remnants of lead-based paint and/or deferred housing maintenance needs, including some basic code violations related to structural or systemic deficiencies. Estimated Number of Housing Units Occupied by Low or Moderate Income Families with LBP Hazards Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 85 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 890 or 15%. Totals of table 34 above indicating number of owner occupied and rental units built before 1980 with children present. Discussion Despite the age of the housing stock, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program statistics show no incidences of poisoning for the most recent data set for FY2012- July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012.For children aged 9-48 months; out of a total # of 736, 480 were tested (65%) with 0 incidences reported. For children aged 6-72 months, out of 1,243, 512 were tested (41%) with 0 incidences reported. The Council on Aging's Home Repair program is available for minor work on elders homes and much of the jobs entail modifications to address physical disabilities. When the City had a housing rehab program, Valley CDC worked on 4-6 units a year. If the City reinstitutes a program with a new vendor, a community survey will be done to ascertain need. The program will be of the same size, as that is the most we could do with the available funding. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 86 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-25 Public and Assisted Housing – 91.210(b) Introduction The Northampton Housing Authority and non-profit affordable housing agencies maintain their properties well. Although maintenance and operating reserves are never sufficient to address all physical plant and site management needs, our local entities do their best to keep their inventory well maintained and physically attractive. There are many programs operating in the community, through for example, ServiceNet residential programming contracts from the Department of Mental Health, group homes through the Department of Developmental Services, recovery homes owned and operated by the Gandara Center, that are virtually visually undetectable and blend seamlessly into surrounding neighborhoods. Local housing and social service providers are aware of how difficult it can be to site and establish a new community based program, so they hold themselves to high operational standards to the extent their funding allows. Totals Number of Units Program Type Certificate Mod-Rehab Public Housing Vouchers Total Project -based Tenant -based Special Purpose Voucher Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Family Unification Program Disabled * # of units vouchers available 895 61 728 1,526 84 1,102 1,202 0 0 # of accessible units 28 *includes Non-Elderly Disabled, Mainstream One-Year, Mainstream Five-year, and Nursing Home Transition Table 40 – Total Number of Units by Program Type Alternate Data Source Name: Data from Northampton Housing Authority. Data Source Comments: The data from the pre-populated information was incorrect. Describe the supply of public housing developments: Describe the number and physical condition of public housing units in the jurisdiction, including those that are participating in an approved Public Housing Agency Plan: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 87 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The Northampton Housing Authority manages 618 units of public housing and rates the general condition of those units as good. Every year they implement a capital improvement plan addressing the most critical rehabilitation needs, as funds allow. A specific breakdown of development descriptions, construction types, recent improvements and planned improvements is included in full in Appendix D. The NHA administers 130 family units; 80 State and 50 Federal. 455 are for elderly and younger disabled and 33 units for special needs populations. 20 are closed referral from the Department of Public Health for women in recovery and their children, 6 units are closed referral from the Department of Mental Health and 7 SRO units. There are 857 Leased Housing Program vouchers as well: 386 Section 8 Mobile vouchers, 81 Enhanced vouchers for expiring use properties, 43 Project based Section 8 vouchers, 272 VASH vouchers administered for the region, 36 Project Based VASH Vouchers for the new Soldier On development in Leeds, 7 Mass. Rental Program vouchers, and 32 Section 8 Mod. Rehab. vouchers. Descriptions of the developments and their physical condition begin in the next section and conclude in Appendix D. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 88 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Public Housing Condition Public Housing Development Average Inspection Score Real Estate Assessment Center/ Northampton Housing Authority 82 Table 41 - Public Housing Condition Describe the restoration and revitalization needs of public housing units in the jurisdiction: A complete list is found in Appendix D. The two Federal developments are as follows: McDonald House – Federal Elderly and Disabled Housing Project MA026-1 McDonald House is a federally funded elderly and disabled development consisting of 60 units in one (1) seven story building constructed in 1966. Construction type is brick face and masonry over steel frame with a flat roof, a common laundry room and community room on the first floor as well as two passenger elevators.The offices of the NHA are also located on the first floor of McDonald House.There are six (6) one bedroom units and one (1) two bedroom unit at McDonald House that are HP accessible and two (2) one bedroom units that are modified for the sight and hearing impaired (modified smoke and heat detectors). The overall condition of McDonald House is very good.Recent improvements include landscaping and fencing improvements, elevator improvements (call stations and interior cab upgrades), installation of energy efficient lighting and boiler replacement for domestic heat and hot water.Planned improvements for the next five years include a new roof, new unit thermostats, seal coating of the parking lot, completion of a masonry study (brick walls, patios & railings) and an condition audit of the two passenger elevators. Florence Heights – Federal Family Housing Project MA026-2 Florence Heights is a federally funded family development consisting of 80 units in twelve (12) two story townhouse style buildings faced with brick and wood siding constructed in 1951.The overall condition of Florence Heights is good.One of the two bedroom units is off line and used as a community room available for use by a tenant association or for other resident activities.Recent improvements include new indirect domestic hot water heaters, replacement of the cellar stairs and bulkheads, painting of the wood siding, masonry repairs, tree trimming and new perimeter fencing. Planned improvements for the next five years include screen door replacement, concrete and black top repair and kitchen countertop and cabinet replacement at unit turnover.Hampshire Heights - State Family Housing Project 200-1 Hampshire Heights is a state funded family development consisting of 80 units within nineteen (19) two story townhouse style buildings constructed in 1950. Construction type is face brick and wood siding over a wood frame structure.One of the two bedroom units is off line and used as a community room available for use by a tenant association or for other resident activities. Two additional barrier free units are in development at Hampshire Heights. The design of the barrier free modular units is substantially complete with construction dependent on the release of state funding.The overall condition of units at Hampshire Heights is good. Kitchen and bath renovations were completed in 2004; Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 89 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) replacement of furnaces with high efficiency units was completed in 2009 and the insulation of attic spaces was also accomplished to improve energy efficiency. Planned improvements for the next five years at Hampshire Heights include the correction of drainage issues at buildings 3 through 6; domestic hot water tank replacement; roadway replacement and window replacement. See Appendix D for the description of the remaining properties. Describe the public housing agency's strategy for improving the living environment of low- and moderate-income families residing in public housing: The NHA continues to strive for excellence in its management and operation of public housing. In order to improve the living environment of low and very low-income residents and expand housing opportunities, the NHA will continue the following efforts: • Maintain clean and secure housing developments • Offer a variety of housing opportunities for the housing needs of NHA applicants • Assure fiscal integrity of housing programs and participants • Support initiatives that provide opportunities for residents that wish to pursue self-sufficiency and economic independence (Mass LEAP) • Efficient program management and collaboration with residents, tenant associations, community service providers, law enforcement and community leaders • Work with NHA tenant associations to address resident concerns and improve community rooms and common areas • Utilize federal capital funds and state modernization funds to address identified capital needs • Reduce energy and utility costs by continuing to utilize energy efficient appliances and fixtures • Continue progress on expanding the VASH program through the use of vouchers and project based assistance • Continue to utilize CORI as part of tenant screening procedures • Develop policies that address smoking in public housing sites and units Discussion: With the implementation of the Community Housing Supportive Services Coordinator program, it is hoped that many life skills opportunities will be embraced by Housing Authority residents. One on one case management to preserve at-risk tenancies, a rep payee program to insure households pay their rent, financial literacy and budgeting workshops will be core components to improve the quality of life for public housing residents and others in subsidized units. Activities for youth, homework clubs, after school programming, access to health services, formation of tenant associations for empowerment, are all possible with this new program. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 90 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-30 Homeless Facilities and Services – 91.210(c) Introduction The Hampshire County Resource Center located in Northampton serves as the central intake for entry into our local homeless service delivery system. From there, homeless individuals can access the Interfaith Shelter during the winter and or the Grove Street Inn, both emergency shelters for individuals. Homeless families are referred to Jessie's House in Amherst. Soldier On is available to provide emergency shelter and transitional housing for Veterans, and Safe Passage has an emergency shelter facility locally for victims of domestic violence. There are currently no facilities for unaccompanied youth, but ServiceNet does have a residential program for Department of Mental Health case managed youth. Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households Emergency Shelter Beds Transitional Housing Beds Permanent Supportive Housing Beds Year Round Beds (Current & New) Voucher / Seasonal / Overflow Beds Current & New Current & New Under Development Households with Adult(s) and Child(ren) 9 0 56 21 0 Households with Only Adults 48 26 174 60 44 Chronically Homeless Households 0 0 0 14 0 Veterans 10 0 174 13 44 Unaccompanied Youth 0 0 0 0 0 Table 42 - Facilities and Housing Targeted to Homeless Households Data Source Comments: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 91 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Describe mainstream services, such as health, mental health, and employment services to the extent those services are use to complement services targeted to homeless persons The Hampshire County Resource Center, colocated with the Interfaith Winter Shelter has a Benefits Analyst and a nurse from Health Care for the Homeless. Casa Latina also administers a Health Care Connector program to sign people up for health care benefits. The Department of Mental Health employs a Street Outreach Clinician through Eliot Homeless Services who does outreach and clinical case management and therapy for unsheltered homeless and some follow up with clients after they are placed in housing. The Hampshire Franklin Career Center is located in Northampton and can be utilized for resume writing and job search activities. The Department of Mental Health has case managers that work with homeless people as does ServiceNet, Inc.'s behavioral health system through DMH contracts. The Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness initiated a highly successful program with the Fireman Foundation bringing together businesses and homeless families for job placement and support services. The Network has worked with local State legislators to include funding for the program in the annual State budget. Reports can be found on line at westernmasshousingfirst.org. Information on the program can be found in Appendix (E). Most of the participants come from Hampden County. List and describe services and facilities that meet the needs of homeless persons, particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth. If the services and facilities are listed on screen SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure or screen MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services, describe how these facilities and services specifically address the needs of these populations. Hampshire County Resource Center: Intake location for local service delivery system. Administered by ServiceNet, Inc. case managers provide services to homeless individuals thru intakes & assessments & developing individual service plans. Laundry, emergency meals, showers & medical care from Health Care for the Homeless are available. A benefits analyst links people with Mass Health. Emergency Shelter: Hampshire County Inter-Faith Shelter for Individuals, (Nov.1 to May 1) 20 beds Grove Street Inn Homeless Shelter for Individuals ( year round ) 24 beds; Safe Passage Emergency Shelter for DV Victims (6 families) , Soldier On Emergency Shelter for Veterans (13). There are no emergency shelter beds for families or beds for unaccompanied youth in Northampton. SRO Outreach Project coodinator conducts weekly on-site coffee hours for tenants. Identifies case management needs & develops goal plans to address issues. Links tenants to entitlement programs & other supports. Primary and Behavioral Health Services: • ServiceNet, Inc. Outpatient Clinic, 50 Pleasant Street, Northampton (mental health treatment) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 92 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) • Clinical Support Options, 8 Atwood Drive, Northampton (crisis services, mental health and addictions treatment) • Health Navigator services through Cooley Dickenson Hospital, Valley Medical Services, Health Care for the Homeless) HIV/AIDS supports: A Positive Place, Hamden St. Northampton (medical and social services case management, benefits coordination, information & referral) Veterans Services: • Soldier On, Inc., 421 North Main St., Leeds, (Support Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) (homeless prevention and diversion, case management, temporary financial assistance, employment, and peer mentoring; Court Diversion Program). • Veterans Services Agent, 240 Main Street, Northampton (assistance with benefits, food, housing, medical and employment) • VA Medical Center (421 North Main St., Leeds (medical, behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, PTSD, intensive case management, VASH Vouchers with case management support) Domestic Violence services through: Safe Passage, 43 Center Street, Northampton (hotline, counseling, shelter, legal assistance. Homeless prevention/diversion services: • ServiceNet, Inc. Shelter and Housing programs, 43 Center Street, Northampton (aftercare case management for formerly homeless individuals through the downtown Resource/Drop-In Center, access to Healthcare for the Homeless, prescription assistance, eye care, dental referrals). • Eliot Services, 1 Prince Street, Northampton (outreach case manager for chronically homeless, high-risk, provides aftercare to clients once housed). Other Resources: • Survival Center, 226 Prospect Street, Northampton (weekly food pantry and clothing distribution). • Community Legal Aid, 20 Hampton Ave., Northampton (support for low income & elders – benefits and employment, elder law, eviction prevention, immigration). • Stavros, 227 Berkshire Ave, Springfield, (personal assistance services, advocacy, resource development, case management). • Franklin/Hampshire One Stop Employment Center, Industrial Drive, Northampton, (employment training, job readiness, placement). Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 93 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) • The Literacy Project, 42 Gothic Street, Northampton (adult literacy, GED preparation, Transitions programs to college, vocational training and work). • Community Enterprises, 444 Pleasant St, Northampton. (Temporary employment, case management, direct care and referrals for individuals with disabilities) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 94 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-35 Special Needs Facilities and Services – 91.210(d) Introduction Northampton is served by Cooley Dickinson Hospital which is now affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital system. Emergency services are available there as well as longer term psychiatric hospitalizations. Respite and residential programming for people with mental health challenges is offered through Department of Mental Health contracts held locally by ServiceNet Inc. and Community Support Options. DMH and DDS, the Department of Developmental Services have scattered site residential units in the community. Riverside Industries and Community Enterprises offers employment settings for DDS clients. There is a new assisted living development being built at Village Hill for supporting elders and the Rock Ridge Retirement Center also contains supported assisted living for elders. Gandara Center offers a continuum of programming for those in recovery beginning at Hairston House, moving to the Alliance for Sober Living and Maple Avenue for independent living in a sober environment. In summary, the City has a cross section of facilities and services but not enough to address the need. Including the elderly, frail elderly, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol or other drug addictions, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, public housing residents and any other categories the jurisdiction may specify, and describe their supportive housing needs The Northampton Senior Center offers extensive programming focusing on health and wellness in addition to social interaction. Efforts have been made the last two years to introduce bilingual staff and volunteers to be more inclusive. Highland Valley Elder Services administered a CDBG grant last year for identification and outreach to frail elders who are at risk of homelessness. The HVES also has extensive services including protective services and the Meals on Wheels Program. The Council on Aging provides policy and programming insight for the community planning process. Elders and frail elders will be increasing in numbers. The public housing units may be available, but there is a segment of the population not eligible or unwilling to live in public housing due to assets, but cannot afford the more expensive elder housing options (Bear Hill, Lathrup Community). There is a need for more units for that sector. Mental health services are provided by the Cooley Dickinson Hospital Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit, the Community Support Options Crisis Team and Respite Program and ServiceNet’s comprehensive behavioral health system network ranging from residential programming to clinical and housing supports. For those struggling with alcohol and substance abuse issues, there are no detox beds locally, so placements need to be found in surrounding counties. Acute care can be obtained at the hospital. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 95 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) A Positive Place, a community program of the local hospital provides housing assistance, housing search and case management for those with HIV/AIDS. Tapestry Health Programs operates a Needle Exchange Program locally and does STD and HIV screening, education, outreach and counseling. For public housing residents, they will be served by a new CPC funded program initiated by the Housing Partnership. The three year grant, recently awarded to the Center for Human Development is for a Community Housing Support Services Coordinator who will work with court involved families to stabilize their housing and do life skills training for residents at the larger multi-family properties in town. Describe programs for ensuring that persons returning from mental and physical health institutions receive appropriate supportive housing Despite the requirement that public systems develop discharge planning that prohibits sending people into homelessness, there are no specific programs exclusively focused on that goal. Success however, is achieved regionally through work at the CoC and Network level and locally by relationship and trust building among service providers. For example, if a Veteran is about to be discharged from the Hampshire County House of Correction with no place to go, Soldier On will pick them up and take them to their campus for intake and assessment. They instituted that practice not because they are funded for it, but it is the right thing to do. The personnel at Cooley Dickinson Hospital discharging people with no place to go will call the Grove Street Inn to see if there is a local bed and provide cab fare. Prior to this coordination, people would just appear at the shelter with no advance warning. After CoC sponsored meetings that put everyone in the same room, beeper numbers and cell phone numbers were swapped to facilitate coordination. Our local Police Department has provided extensive training for their officers on jail diversion efforts, mental health treatment and how to approach people exhibiting problematic behavior. The City and provider community work very closely with the Police department and the NPD is well aware of the majority of unsheltered homeless, where the camps are and what area resources are available. We coordinate to the extent possible, but there are rarely housing placements with support services available for anyone exiting these other institutionalized settings. We are fortunate in that ServiceNet, the large behavioral health agency based in Northampton with programs in the 4 western Mass. counties, also administers the two homeless shelters and permanent housing programs in their Shelter and Housing Division; so within their own system treatment components can be coordinated. We also did two sessions with the City and Smith College library staffs. CSO, ServiceNet, Eliot Services, CEDO staff, the Police Department and DMH presented information on addressing problematic behaviors, response protocols and area resources. Libraries play a critical role as the homeless often spend their days there. Forbes Library requested an informational session which the City co-sponsored. Library staff from all City systems ( municipal and Smith College) attended two sessions on how to engage people exhibiting problematic behavior, the Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 96 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) community resources available and response protocols. Panelists included shelter staff, DMH case managers, Street Outreach Clinicians, CSO Crisis Team & the Police Department. It was a valuable acknowledgement of the library systems part in our service delivery system and they should be commended for reaching out to learn how to participate in a respectful, humane and consistent manner. Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. 91.315(e) Housing and support services planned for the next year for people who are not homeless include: - City support to the Single Room Occupancy Project for case management and stabilization for residents in the SRO's. - CDBG allocation to Community Legal Aid for homelessness prevention; court intervention and mediation to preserve at-risk tenancies $5,500 - Housing Partnership monitoring of the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator; new project funded by the Community Preservation Act program $195,000 over 3 years. - CDBG funding for Valley CDC for the creation of 55 affordable housing units at the former Northampton Lumberyard site. $150,000 - CDBG funding for HAPHousing for the creation of 48 affordable housing units in a 72 unit development to replace the current 58 unit SRO called Northampton Lodging. - the City will work with the Friends of the Homeless to identify a target population for which to develop new housing. (their first house - formerly chronically homeless; their second house - individuals in recovery). For entitlement/consortia grantees: Specify the activities that the jurisdiction plans to undertake during the next year to address the housing and supportive services needs identified in accordance with 91.215(e) with respect to persons who are not homeless but have other special needs. Link to one-year goals. (91.220(2)) Housing and support services planned for the next year for people who are not homeless include: - City support to the Single Room Occupancy Project for case management and stabilization for residents in the SRO's. $10,000 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 97 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) - CDBG allocation to Community Legal Aid for homelessness prevention; court intervention and mediation to preserve at-risk tenancies $5,500 - Housing Partnership monitoring of the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator; new project funded by the Community Preservation Act program; $195,000 over 3 years. - CDBG funding for Valley CDC for the creation of 55 affordable housing units at the former Northampton Lumberyard site. $150,000 - CDBG funding for HAPHousing for the creation of 48 affordable housing units in a 72 unit development to replace the current 58 unit SRO called Northampton Lodging. - the City will work with the Friends of the Homeless to identify a target population for which to develop new housing. (their first house - formerly chronically homeless; their second house - individuals in recovery). - Work with the Northampton Housing Authority to move the Burts Pit Road project forward for development to accommodate 10 clients of the DDS - Allocate CDBG funds to demolish the farmhouse at the Burts Pit Road site. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 98 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-40 Barriers to Affordable Housing – 91.210(e) Negative Effects of Public Policies on Affordable Housing and Residential Investment The 2014 Fair Housing Equity Assessment conducted for the Sustainable Knowledge Corridor (PVPC) describes intervention points where local government actions can affect barriers to affordable housing:“State & local planning documents that do not address fair housing; lack of coordination & funding for programs that promote mobility; inadequate fair housing enforcement & education to address discrimination & barriers that limit housing access; too few legislative solutions to overcome impediments; lack of collaboration among governmental entities, zoning regulations that prohibit affordable and multi-family housing and/or make the creation of those units prohibitively expensive; lack of data to determine if entities receiving Federal financing are meeting their goals to affirmatively further fair housing. It adds the following components at the more macro level: lack of affordable housing in a variety of locations and predatory lending, redlining and other housing discriminatory practices, especially against persons of color. At the housing provider level, landlords that refuse to make modifications or reasonable accommodation, those who refuse to accept housing subsidies as a source of rental payment, linguistic profiling, and rental discrimination against families with young children due to presence or potential presence of lead-based paint hazards”, are all issues to be addressed. The Housing Partnership’s Zoning Sub-Committee has identified zoning related issues that are problematic. Multi-family housing allowed by right and inclusionary zoning continues to be analyzed to increase market rate affordable units.There are no other specific public policies under scrutiny at this time but the City of Northampton will continue to do outreach and in the course of implementing the recommendations in the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, be open to proactively address specific policies that may be identified that need to be examined and changed. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 99 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-45 Non-Housing Community Development Assets – 91.215 (f) Introduction Economic Development Market Analysis Business Activity Business by Sector Number of Workers Number of Jobs Share of Workers % Share of Jobs % Jobs less workers % Agriculture, Mining, Oil & Gas Extraction 5 0 0 0 0 Arts, Entertainment, Accommodations 153 0 13 0 -13 Construction 48 0 4 0 -4 Education and Health Care Services 210 0 18 0 -18 Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate 93 0 8 0 -8 Information 43 0 4 0 -4 Manufacturing 125 0 11 0 -11 Other Services 43 0 4 0 -4 Professional, Scientific, Management Services 126 0 11 0 -11 Public Administration 0 0 0 0 0 Retail Trade 184 0 16 0 -16 Transportation and Warehousing 53 0 5 0 -5 Wholesale Trade 61 0 5 0 -5 Total 1,144 0 -- -- -- Table 43 - Business Activity Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS (Workers), 2011 Longitudinal Employer-Household Dynamics (Jobs) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 100 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Labor Force Total Population in the Civilian Labor Force 16,574 Civilian Employed Population 16 years and over 15,311 Unemployment Rate 7.62 Unemployment Rate for Ages 16-24 19.85 Unemployment Rate for Ages 25-65 4.84 Table 44 - Labor Force Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Occupations by Sector Number of People Management, business and financial 4,133 Farming, fisheries and forestry occupations 440 Service 1,564 Sales and office 2,947 Construction, extraction, maintenance and repair 533 Production, transportation and material moving 511 Table 45 – Occupations by Sector Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Travel Time Travel Time Number Percentage < 30 Minutes 10,003 74% 30-59 Minutes 2,964 22% 60 or More Minutes 605 4% Total 13,572 100% Table 46 - Travel Time Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Education: Educational Attainment by Employment Status (Population 16 and Older) Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force Less than high school graduate 407 39 538 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 101 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Educational Attainment In Labor Force Civilian Employed Unemployed Not in Labor Force High school graduate (includes equivalency) 1,423 264 744 Some college or Associate's degree 2,457 200 640 Bachelor's degree or higher 7,457 245 1,011 Table 47 - Educational Attainment by Employment Status Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Educational Attainment by Age Age 18–24 yrs 25–34 yrs 35–44 yrs 45–65 yrs 65+ yrs Less than 9th grade 64 45 70 167 271 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 326 245 75 382 399 High school graduate, GED, or alternative 841 468 471 1,492 1,126 Some college, no degree 2,946 760 368 1,036 508 Associate's degree 190 222 279 632 152 Bachelor's degree 385 1,131 933 1,755 455 Graduate or professional degree 25 921 1,103 2,887 702 Table 48 - Educational Attainment by Age Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Educational Attainment – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Educational Attainment Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Less than high school graduate 24,614 High school graduate (includes equivalency) 25,662 Some college or Associate's degree 32,175 Bachelor's degree 37,987 Graduate or professional degree 55,591 Table 49 – Median Earnings in the Past 12 Months Data Source: 2007-2011 ACS Based on the Business Activity table above, what are the major employment sectors within your jurisdiction? The City of Northampton’s Workforce is comprised of the following industry sectors: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 102 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) • Education and Health Services: 43% • Retail and Wholesale Trade: 13% • Lodging, Food Services, Arts, Entertainment and Recreation: 12% • Manufacturing: 7% • Government: 5% • Construction: 3% / Professional: 3% / • Information/ Finance/Insurance: All at 2% Describe the workforce and infrastructure needs of the business community: Similar to many regions across the nation, Northampton and Hampshire County possesses a workforce in which over 40% of all jobs are in the higher incomes health care or educational sectors and 25% of jobs are the low income retail/service trades. Manufacturing jobs which are viewed as moderate income positions take up 7% of the workforce. Therefore, the needs of the lower income workforce are not being met by the jobs available in our local economy. Describe any major changes that may have an economic impact, such as planned local or regional public or private sector investments or initiatives that have affected or may affect job and business growth opportunities during the planning period. Describe any needs for workforce development, business support or infrastructure these changes may create. Historic Levels of New Construction Northampton since 2012 has experienced a historic level of new construction with 13 projects valued at over $88 million Creating 203,000 square feet of office & medical space, 110 new hotel rooms, 73 housing units and 83 assisted living units with 43 of those units for low income residents. Amtrak Vermonter Service Thanks to $70 million in funding from the Obama Administration’s 2009 Recovery Act, the Pioneer Valley rail line has been completely upgraded to handle future rail passenger growth. In January of 2015 the Amtrak Vermonter inaugurated service to include Northampton and Greenfield. The introduction of rail service into this section of the Pioneer Valley will offer new transportation options for residents, assist visitors to the many regional educational institutions and tourists as well. This new service will offer an intangible quality of life benefit linking Northampton to further areas such as Manhattan which is a bonus to the many residents who are employed in our “Knowledge Economy”. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 103 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Growth of Downtown Northampton Since 2012, Downtown Northampton has experienced a number of investment driven projects that will strengthen the Downtown’s vibrancy and its ability to generate critically important entry level and temporary posiitons in a jobs challenged economy. Some of the developments are: • The expansion of Downtown through infrastructure improvements to the Pleasant Street corridor. • The planned construction of over 200 units of moderate to affordable housing on Pleasant Street. • Expansion plans by the Northampton Center for the Arts to build a new performance/educational center. • Since 2013, the Academy of Music has maintained its year round programming attracting over 45,000 annually. • The opening of the New Fairfield Inn with 110 rooms will welcome 30,000 visitors annually. • Downtown retail occupancy remains very high providing jobs and commerce to Northampton. • Northampton just completed its first Downtown Parking Analysis since 1998. How do the skills and education of the current workforce correspond to employment opportunities in the jurisdiction? Northampton’s high school graduation rate is 92.6% versus the national average of 86%. 55.7% of Northampton residents possess a college degree or high versus the national average of 29% according to the US Census Bureau. Education and job skills are important qualifiers for employment anywhere but especially so in Northampton where 43% of jobs are in the education and health care fields. Conversely, over 25% of Northampton jobs are in retail, wholesale, lodging, food services and entertainment which are fields requiring moderate levels of education and training. Manufacturing accounts for 7% of Northampton’s workforce. The current manufacturing sector possesses many jobs that are skilled which has inspired many public sector development and workforce agencies to work on serving this need since manufacturing jobs are no longer menial light assembly but a skilled positions requiring many levels of expertise and independent judgment. Describe any current workforce training initiatives, including those supported by Workforce Investment Boards, community colleges and other organizations. Describe how these efforts will support the jurisdiction's Consolidated Plan. Mayor of Northampton’s Youthworks Program Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 104 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) This program is an annual effort sponsored by the Hampshire Franklin Regional Employment Board (FHREB) offering 8 week internships under a Work-Based Learning Plan. In 2014, the program placed 36 youths into internships. Northampton Community Education Consortium This group meets quarterly to address adult basic education and access issues for those seeking high school and college experience, the majority of which are low and moderate income. The broadly composed collaborative includes the 2 community colleges Greenfield and Holyoke), Smith College, the University of Massachusetts, Community Action, the Center for New Americans, the Franklin Hampshire REB and Career Center, the Literacy Project and others. The work undertaken by the NCEC to improve access to education and career opportunites supports the City's ConPlan goals of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency for residents with income and language challenges. School-to-Career Connecting Activities This program serves over 400 students across 15 school district linking students with work-based learning experiences. AMP It Up Manufacturing This program works with older young adults who are out of high school, underemployed with no college degrees to raise their awareness of the job openings in the advanced manufacturing field. Middle Skills Manufacturing Initiative (MSMI) This program will serve 48 adults and place 37 in jobs based on 100 to 300 hours of training in advanced manufacturing. Supporting educational institutions include Greenfield Community College and the Franklin County Technical School Growing Together This USDA funded program creates a sustainable farming education program at high school and community colleges through coursework and internships. Secure Jobs Connect This is a program initiated, implemented and advance by the Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 105 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Does your jurisdiction participate in a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)? Yes If so, what economic development initiatives are you undertaking that may be coordinated with the Consolidated Plan? If not, describe other local/regional plans or initiatives that impact economic growth. Village Hill Village Hill Northampton is a 126 acre master planned community based on New Urbanist principles. It combines commercial, R&D/light industrial and residential uses with open space to support regional job creation, business development and recreational opportunities. At full build out, Village Hill will support the creation or retention of 400 to 800 regional jobs. Pleasant Street Housing There are (2) affordable housing projects that have received City approval that will construct over 125 apartment units for low to moderate incomes. The projects are HAP Housing (76 mixed income) and Valley CDC with 55 units of affordable housing. Christopher Heights at Village Hill Christopher Heights, currently under construction, will be an 83 unit assisted living facility with 43 of those units set aside for low income residents. Atwood Drive Office Park and Hotel Site Northampton has worked closely with the Hampshire Hospitality Group (HHG) in its development of over 80,000 square feet of new office space located on Route 5 adjacent to Exit 18 on I-91. The City has tried to secure state funding to pay for the costs of water/sewer lines and an expanded road entrance to suit bus transit. The presence of Class A office space in the Pioneer Valley is unique deserving or regional investment in order to support the attraction of high value health care and office relate Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 106 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) jobs. Additionally, the HHG is considering additional office space along with a new 150 room hotel depending on whether there is demand for the new office space. Discussion Secure Jobs Connect The Secure Jobs Fund started as a one-year $1.5 million demonstration project to build a coordinated service system that links extremely low-income households with the resources required to enter the workforce. During the first pilot year, the program supported five regional partnerships to secure employment for approximately 390 adults from HomeBASE rental-assistance households, and to develop a replicable model for broader system reform, as well as inform state and federal policy regarding homelessness and employment. Western Massachusetts received $309,000 from the Fireman Charitable Foundation to implement a pilot project, and assisted with job placements for 68 households. Since then, the Western MA project has expanded to include a wider geographical region as well as a broader target population. The State Dept. of Housing and Community Development and the Fireman Foundation have each contributed funds to deepen and expand the regional work. Western Massachusetts received $310,000 from DHCD and $209,000 from the Fireman Foundation. In January 2014, the Commonwealth Corporation, funded by the MA Executive Office of Community and Development, awarded the Western region $207,000 to provide employment services to both individuals and families. The grant was part of a larger $1.7 million pool of funds awarded statewide. This grant will serve homeless individuals in need of employment assistance through March, 2016. Projected outcomes for the three combined initiatives include the enrollment of at least 300 adult participants, at least 75% of whom will gain employment. To date, the partnerships that have developed between homeless service providers, FutureWorks and area businesses has been hugely successful. Community partners and the Network Coordinator were invited to Washington D.C. for a special session with HUD and the Department of Labor to showcase the best practices model. Support from State legislators yielded an annual allocation in the State budget to insure continuity beyond the foundation funding. Two annual sessions celebrating the success for homeless families have been attended by all regional Mayors and State legislators and hundreds of attendees. See Appendix E for additional information. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 107 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) MA-50 Needs and Market Analysis Discussion Are there areas where households with multiple housing problems are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") In examining census tract and block group level data, using a definition of 25% or more of a selected characteristic to indicate an area of concentration, did not generate valuable data. As a result, we revised the definition to 20% or more for selected characteristics. The characteristics of substandard housing units and households living in overcrowded situations did not yield any concentrations, so we focused on cost burden. 4 census tracts of the 8 indicated ranges of 24-32% of all rental households experiencing severe cost burden and 2 tracts showed owner occupied units paying more than 50% of their incomes for housing. A map showing concentrations of households living in poverty yielded more information about specific geographic locations. Census Tracts and block groups and the percentage of households with severe cost burden (>= 50%) were as follows: 821601-1 = 36%; 821700-2 = 20%; 821602-2 = 42%; 821601-2 = 31%; 821901-1 = 24%; 821901-2 = 37%; 821903-1 = 39% Are there any areas in the jurisdiction where racial or ethnic minorities or low-income families are concentrated? (include a definition of "concentration") Racial or ethnic minority concentration was defined as greater than or equal to 20% of the population. Census Tract 821700 block group 3 showed up on the map which corresponded to the Veterans Administration Campus which houses close to 200 units of emergency, transitional and permanent supported housing for homeless and formerly homeless Veterans from the New England region. Tract 821903 block group 2 corresponds to the Hampshire County House of Corrections. Tract 822000 block group 1 corresponds to Smith College. The other tract that shows up is 821601 block group 2 contains Hampshire Heights - a Northampton Public Housing Authority family development, Hathaway Farms, a privately owned apartment complex with 207 units, less than 25% affordable, and some market rate affordable rental units in River Run, Laurel Ridge and Coachlight Condominiums on Barrett Street. Concentrations of households living at or below the poverty level, defined as 20% or greater of a census tract or block group revealed 4 tracts. The tracts and block groups and associated percentages were as follows: 821602-2 = 33%; 821601-2 = 28%; 821901-2 = 21%; 821903-3 = 24% Seperating out the tracts with the VA Campus and the Jail, 821601-2 is the tract that has both minority concentration and cost burden. What are the characteristics of the market in these areas/neighborhoods? Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 108 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) The tract showing the largest number of minorities contains the majority of the larger apartment complexes in the City. Some are public and some are privately owned. They are farther away from the downtown, where rents may be slightly more affordable. The tract is intersected by the general highway business corridor, which does include grocery stores, gas stations, WalMart, and other more affordable retail locations, as compared to the more higher end destination shopping offerings located downtown. Are there any community assets in these areas/neighborhoods? The Jackson Street Elementary School and playground is an asset to the neighborhood. Highly multi- cultural, there is a myriad of community opportunities facilitated by the school personnel. Students come from many backgrounds and many do not have English as their primary language. The tract borders the Connecticut River which provides passive and active recreation. There is a bike path that traverses the community facilitating easy access to other areas of the City, such as public parks and stores. The Three County Fairgrounds is also in this area which has many activities such as horse shows, art shows and an annual Fair. Are there other strategic opportunities in any of these areas? There will be traffic improvements made to the Damon Road and King Street intersections and pedestrian safety will be enhanced. A bridge is planned to lift the bike path over King Street, for improved safety. Stormwater and drainage improvements are planned for the area around the Three County fairgrounds and the Fairgrounds has a multi year master plan geared towards increasing economic benefits for the City and region. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 109 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Strategic Plan SP-05 Overview Strategic Plan Overview The City of Northampton, through the citizen participation process, targetted consultations and data analysis, has identified fourteen areas of priority need that will be addressed over the next five years. Those priority needs are as follows: Homelessness prevention, support for the emergency shelter system, creation of new rental housing for individuals, creation of new rental housing for families, preservation of existing rental stock, housing rehabilitation for homeownership units, affordable homeownership opportunities for families, housing for at-risk and special populations, economic development activities focused on economic empowerment and income maximization, housing support services for those at risk of homelessness, addressing basic needs such as food, shelter and health care, elimination of slums and blight to facilitate development of new housing and economic opportunities, improvements to public facilities and public infrastructure. The City will allocate CDBG funds to the extent they are available and support efforts to leverage those funds to operate successful programs and bring projects to fruition. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 110 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-10 Geographic Priorities – 91.215 (a)(1) Geographic Area Table 50 - Geographic Priority Areas 1 Area Name: No geographic Priorities Designated Area Type: Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Other Target Area Description: Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. HUD Approval Date: % of Low/ Mod: Revital Type: Other Revital Description: Identify the neighborhood boundaries for this target area. Include specific housing and commercial characteristics of this target area. How did your consultation and citizen participation process help you to identify this neighborhood as a target area? Identify the needs in this target area. What are the opportunities for improvement in this target area? Are there barriers to improvement in this target area? General Allocation Priorities Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction (or within the EMSA for HOPWA) Public services allocations are made to organizations who conduct services city-wide. They may be targeted to special populations, but not specific geographic areas. CDBG funded projects other than public service contracts are evaluated individually on a need basis. If there is a public faciility, they are in fact, open to the public. Public infrastructure improvements are implemented according to eligibility requirements either based on the low mod area served on limited clientele benefit. We have no urban renewal areas, no Neighborhood Strategy areas, no CDFI areas and no local target areas. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 111 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Due to the smaller size of the City, data at the census tract level for Northampton is not very informative. The American Community Survey provides data at the Block Group level which is more informative for geographic analysis. The Block Groups containing 51% or more of households earning 80% or less of area median income are as follows: 821700-2; 821601-2; 821602-2; 821901-2;821904- 2;822000-1;821903-1;822200-1;812903-3. Census tracts with more than 25% minority population are defined by HUD as areas of minority concentration. Presently, there are no such areas in the city. Northampton redefined the threshold as 20% and researched the block groups to see where the concentrations are located. Those tracts and block group numbers that met that threshold were as follows: 821700-3 (26%) which is primarily the Veterans Administration Medical Campus; 821601-2 (38%); 822000-1 (20%) and 821903-2 (35%). Maps are attached in Appendix F. Minority concentrations will be analyzed for allocating investments for public infrastructure projects, public facility projects and outreach locations for informational workshops about mainstream resources, City resources and economic empowerment opportunities. *2010 Census Tract 821902 was split into 2: 821903 and 821904 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 112 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-25 Priority Needs - 91.215(a)(2) Priority Needs Table 51 – Priority Needs Summary 1 Priority Need Name Homelessness Prevention Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Homelessness Prevention Planning and Administration Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 113 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description It is far less costly to preserve tenancies than to provide shelter. The presence of 400 families in motels in Western Mass due to over capacity in the shelters indicates an already overstressed system. With stable housing, individuals and families can focus on job and educational goals and becoming healthy and economically self sufficient. Basis for Relative Priority Massachusetts is a Right to Shelter state. The number of homeless families remain epidemic. Stabilizing families that are currently housed in order to reduce the numbers of families becoming homeless and being placed in a motel is a high priority goal of the region. 2 Priority Need Name Support for Emergency Shelter Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Chronic Homelessness Individuals Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Support for Emergency Shelter System Planning and Administration Description Funding sources for emergency shelters are few and far between. The City embraces the paradigm shift to housing first models and permanent housing units with support services, but until those units exist in sufficient numbers, the emergency shelter system still needs to exist and be operational. The City supports through CDBG, operating and staffing costs for the two generic emergency shelters in town, the Grove Street Inn and the Inter-faith Winter shelter, both for individuals. There are no emergency shelter beds for families in Northampton. Basis for Relative Priority ServiceNet had utilized ESG funding in the past for shelter operations, but that has diminished. Unfortunately, so has the CDBG amounts available to allocate for this purpose. Shelter programs struggle for funds and only have one paid overnight staff person at both shelters, which is less than ideal for security reasons. 3 Priority Need Name Rental Housing for Individuals Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 114 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Elderly Chronic Homelessness Individuals Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Rental Housing for Individuals Planning and Administration Description Single-person households comprised a substantial portion of the population, about 37% of all households and 74% of non-family households in 2000, and are projected to continue to increase in number and proportion to all households. Despite the population housed in group quarters, there still remain another one thousand single-person households that rely on the existing housing stock. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 115 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Basis for Relative Priority According to US Census stats from 2010, about half of all residents over 65 lived alone. Thirty-two percent (32%) of elderly renters, or 260 seniors earning at or below 50% of area median income, were paying too much for housing including almost a hundred or 11.5% who were spending at least half of their income on housing. Most seniors earning fixed incomes and relying substantially on Social Security find that when they lose their spouse, their income may not be sufficient to afford their current housing and other expenses. There are at least two-year waits for those seniors applying to live in public housing. Using the lowest prices advertised in on Craigslist, a one-bedroom unit renting for $850 would require an income of $38,000, assuming $100 per month in utility bills and housing expenses of no more than 30% of the household’s income, much higher than what most renters can afford. For example, someone earning the minimum wage of $7.25 for 40 hours per week and every week during the year would still only earn a gross income of $15,080. The 2000 rental vacancy rate was 2.9%, representing extremely tight conditions and little turnover in the rental market. The Northampton Housing Partnership undertook a series of interviews with housing providers and those serving the homeless,as important input into the 2011 Housing Needs Assessment. Through these discussions, new Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units, providing single rooms for individuals, and the Safe Haven Program, offering housing for the chronically homeless mentally ill, were identified as priority needs. The City has lost more than half of its SRO housing stock over the past few decades, most recently 21 units at Augies on Hawley Street due to fire. A typical SRO rents for about $300 to $400 per month, and many offer weekly rates as well, serving as valuable sources of affordable housing for low-income individuals. The Valley CDC renovated a 17-unit enhanced SRO project in Florence in 2005 with some limited supportive services, filled up immediately and has had minimal turnover. 4 Priority Need Name Rental Housing for Families Priority Level High Population Extremely Low Low Large Families Families with Children Families with Children Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 116 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Rental Housing for Families Planning and Administration Description There is a significant need to house families, particularly those earning within the poverty level. There is a growing number of smaller households that include single parents with children and also a lack of larger apartments. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 117 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Basis for Relative Priority The average household size of 2.14 people per dwelling unit in 2000, is projected to decrease still to 2.04 by 2014. This trend towards smaller households is driven by decreases in the numbers of children and more “traditional” families with accompanying increases in “child-free” and “child- delayed” families. There have also been increases in empty nesters and senior and frail populations. There are also substantial numbers of two-person households that are now estimated to comprise almost 4,000 households, or about one-third of all households, yet smaller housing units are in short supply. Almost half of the households with children were headed by one parent (82% of these involved unmarried parents or single mothers), suggesting a compelling need for affordable family housing for families with only one income. In 2000, 27.4% of all small family renters, or 330 families, were spending too much on housing costs, including 110 families earning at or below 30% AMI. The wait for a unit in one of the Northampton Housing Authority’s family rental developments is at least two (2) years, including substantial waits for larger families looking for three- and four-bedroom units. Realtors indicate that there are very few three- and four-bedroom apartments that come on the market and are suitable for larger families. There is substantial demand for NHA rental subsidies with waits of about six (6) years to obtain a voucher. Rental costs are high. Advertised two-bedroom apartments start at $900, requiring an income of about $41,400 (this is based on $135 in monthly utility costs and that housing costs are no more than 30% of the household’s income). This rent is beyond most lower income household’s ability to afford. Also, landlords typically expect first and last month’s rent and a security deposit when the lease is signed, a sum that blocks many households from finding decent housing. Given a 2.9% vacancy rate, the housing market is very tight and units are hard to find. 5 Priority Need Name Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 118 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Families with Children Individuals Families with Children Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Planning and Administration Description The preservation of existing affordable rental units is essential to maintaining an affordable housing stock well into the future. This rental housing, including both units that are subsidized and in the private housing market, is more cost effective to rehabilitate and maintain than to build new. Moreover, efforts are needed to maintain affordability restrictions on subsidized housing in perpetuity to the greatest extent possible, so as not to lose affordability based on expiring use restrictions. Basis for Relative Priority Northampton’s rental housing stock has been eroded over the last several decades due largely to condo conversions or the elimination of rooming houses or downtown hotels that catered to lower income individuals. No new unsubsidized rental housing has been built with the exception of accessory apartments. Subsidized rental developments have been relatively small in scale and number with the exception of developments at the former State Hospital site. Northampton has a number of housing units in its Subsidized Housing Inventory where affordability restrictions are due to expire within the next decade. All strategies that preserve existing rental housing, at all affordability levels, should be explored. Because preservation is so cost-effective compared with the creation of new rental units, this needs to include supporting private sector providers as well as those in the Subsidized Housing Inventory. It is also useful to note that many private landlords may be in fact subsidizing their tenants, keeping rents at below market value to enable their tenants to remain in their units. 6 Priority Need Name Housing Rehabilitation Resources Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 119 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Middle Elderly Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Housing Rehabilitation Planning and Administration Description Many low- and moderate- income homeowners lack sufficient resources to properly maintain their homes and address substandard housing conditions. Improvements should incorporate modifications to improve handicapped accessibility and eliminate lead-based paint and housing code violations. Basis for Relative Priority A substantial portion of Northampton’s housing stock, 45.4% or 5,638 units, was built before 1939. Almost another 30%, or 3,484 units, was built between 1940 and 1970, with another 1,500 units built between 1970 and 1980. Because of the relative age of the existing housing stock, it is likely that many units may have remnants of lead-based paint and/or deferred housing maintenance needs. The Council on Aging has noted some demand within their home repair program to address accessibility issues in homes occupied by non-elders. 7 Priority Need Name Affordable Homeownership for Families Priority Level High Population Moderate Large Families Families with Children Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Affordable Homeownership for Families Planning and Administration Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 120 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description Market conditions have placed the purchase of homes beyond the financial means of low- and moderate-income households and families need opportunities to “buy up” as their families grow. Infill development and the redevelopment/reuse of existing properties in partnership with non-profit organizations and private builders offer the best options for increasing affordable homeownership opportunities in Northampton. Basis for Relative Priority The large gap between incomes and the entry cost for homeownership forces first-time homebuyers to look elsewhere for housing they can afford to buy. A household has to earn at least at the median income level to afford to purchase a home in Northampton. Without a subsidized mortgage, this household would also have to come up with a substantial amount of cash, now more typically a down payment of 20%, blocking many who seek to own a home. Credit problems also pose substantial barriers to homeownership. While condo prices are lower, it has become very difficult to obtain financing for condominiums and monthly fees raise housing expenses, limiting how much that can be borrowed. Almost all of the City’s existing subsidized housing units are rentals. Prior generations have had the advantage of GI loans and other favorable mortgage lending options with reasonable down payments. Also, in prior years the average home price to average income ratio was much lower than it is today, making homeownership more accessible. Given current economic conditions, the ability to obtain financing will likely become only more challenging for today’s first-time homebuyers without subsidized homeownership. The 2000 vacancy rate for homeownership units was less than one percent, reflecting very tight market conditions. Since then the market has not softened substantially in Northampton despite the financial crisis, and housing costs remain out of reach for those earning at or below 80% AMI. 8 Priority Need Name Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 121 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Families with Children Elderly Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Planning and Administration Description Housing should continue to be developed to serve those who are at risk of homelessness and/or have special needs that require supportive services. Providing stable and affordable opportunities for those transitioning out of shelters or special programs remains a high priority Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 122 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Basis for Relative Priority The relative scarcity of affordable rentals, particularly those with supportive services, was identified as perhaps the foremost housing need in meetings convened by the Northampton Housing Partnership with representatives of local and regional housing program and service providers during the formulation of the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Housing Plan. The City and region are pursuing the Housing First model as an alternative to the current emergency and transitional shelter system. Permanent housing needs to be built to provide much needed rapid response units. Wait lists for the City’s shelters continue to grow. While the decreases in poverty levels appear to be a healthy signal that the City’s population is doing better economically, it may also be that those of the most vulnerable residents living in Northampton in 1980 have been forced to leave the City in search of more affordable living conditions elsewhere, most likely to Holyoke or Springfield. The ability to provide affordable housing options for those with very limited incomes who have lived or currently live in the community and want to continue to do so is a continuing challenge and a pressing need. Only 31 of the Housing Authority's 618 units are modified to be accessible to the physically handicapped. The wait list is low, probably due to the lack of turnover and long time on the waiting list. When the issue of accessibility, however, is coupled with affordability, choices become severely diminished for families and individuals looking for such housing and they may become at risk of homelessness. 9 Priority Need Name Economic Development Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 123 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Moderate Large Families Families with Children Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Economic Development/Income Maximization Planning and Administration Description Northampton has had a strong and diverse economic base with an increasing number of workers despite some decreases in the total population. It can boast a significant manufacturing sector with a mixture of traditional operations, such as wire protrusion and plastic molding, as well as innovative ones including the production of heat sensing devices. It also has a resilient retail and commercial sector and a large institutional base that includes county services, two hospitals and Smith College. Of those 16,008 Northampton residents over the age of 16 who were employed in 2000, 8,270, or about 52%, worked in the community, a percentage that is higher than Hampshire County and the state at 39% and 34%, respectively, suggesting far more employment opportunities in the city. However, Recent estimates suggest that poverty levels have actually increased. The 2007 census estimates in the American Community Survey for Northampton indicate that poverty increased to 13.6% with 3,466 residents living below the poverty level as opposed to about 2,500 in 1999. The 2008 American Community Survey, that had estimates for the county and state, also showed increases in poverty, from 9.4% to 10.4% of all residents for Hampshire County, and from 9% to 9.7% for the state. Given the recent economic crisis, these poverty levels may in fact have increased even more. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 124 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Basis for Relative Priority Incomes have increased substantially, especially between 1979 and 1989 when the median income more than doubled. From 1989 to 1999, the median income increased from $31,097 to $41,808, or roughly 34%. Those earning less than $25,000 decreased from 78% of all households in 1979 to 28% in 1999. Households earning between $25,000 and $50,000 almost doubled between 1979 and 1989, from 18.8% to 36.7%, but then decreased again to 29.8% in 1999. Those with higher incomes, earning more than $50,000, increased from only 331 households in 1979 or 3.2%, to 2,647 or 23.8% in 1989, to 4,988 or 42.1% in 1999. With time it would be expected that incomes would climb, but in comparison to the state Northampton had a lower portion of those earning more than $75,000, 20.9% as opposed to 30.5% of all households statewide. The City’s per capita income was $24,022 in 2000, only somewhat less than the state average of $25,952. However the income of multiracial residents was 62% of the City’s average ($14,952) and that of Hispanics was half of the City average ($11,131). While non-family households comprised half the population in 2000, the median income of families was substantially higher, $56,844 versus $29,818, a finding highly correlated with a greater prevalence of two worker households in families. Additionally, and not surprisingly, the median income level of homeowners is substantially higher than that of renters, in fact almost double, $57,327 versus $29,333 in 2000. The majority of renters earned below $35,000, while the majority of homeowners earned between $35,000 and $100,000. Almost 20% of the homeowners earned more than $100,000 compared to only 3% of the renter households. Data also confirm the concentration of jobs in the retail and service sectors, and demonstrates that these jobs tend to have somewhat lower wage levels. The average weekly wage for Northampton’s workers was $769, about half of Boston’s at $1,476. Those industries with more than 1,000 Northampton workers included manufacturing (1,231 workers), retail trade (2,051), educational services (2,693), health care and social assistance (5,142), accommodation and food services (1,937) and public administration (1,024). 10 Priority Need Name Housing Support Services Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 125 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Housing Support Services Planning and Administration Description Housing stabilization activities that prevent homelessness. Basis for Relative Priority In order to end homelessness, housing should be secured as quickly as possible with wrap around support services to stabilize tenancies and allow people to remain in homes that they own, if at all possible. 11 Priority Need Name Addressing Basic Needs Priority Level High Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 126 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Large Families Families with Children Elderly Public Housing Residents Chronic Homelessness Individuals Families with Children Mentally Ill Chronic Substance Abuse veterans Persons with HIV/AIDS Victims of Domestic Violence Unaccompanied Youth Elderly Frail Elderly Persons with Mental Disabilities Persons with Physical Disabilities Persons with Developmental Disabilities Persons with Alcohol or Other Addictions Persons with HIV/AIDS and their Families Victims of Domestic Violence Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Addressing Basic Needs Planning and Administration Description This applies to public services grants for food pantries, soup kitchens, meals programs, sheltering, access to health care. Basis for Relative Priority As part of the competitive process for reviewing applications for CDBG public service dollars, the Review Committee prioritizes projects that address basic needs, defined as provision of food and shelter. The program is designed to build around those core services. 12 Priority Need Name Elimination of Slums and Blight Priority Level Low Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 127 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Population Extremely Low Low Families with Children Public Housing Residents Persons with Developmental Disabilities Non-housing Community Development Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Elimination of Slums and Blight Planning and Administration Description There are very few properties that are deteriorated to the degree that they would qualify for this category, but they do exist. Past demolition activity at the Three County Fairgrounds has been undertaken to allow for new structures and programming to take place to increase economic development potential for tourist dollars and new jobs. Clearing old condemned farmhouses on the former State hospital property now owned by the Housing Authority to facilitate future development was a CDBG activity in 2014 and will be again in 2015. There are no other parcels on which demolition will need to occur for NHA properties. Basis for Relative Priority Elimination of slums and blight projects will be evaluated on the future use of the parcel, not just removal of delapidated structures. The demolition activity that has occurred in recent years was at the Fairgrounds to increase economic development opportunities and at Housing Authority parcels to clear sites for affordable housing development. There are very few substandard buildings in Northampton and no concentration in any particular geographic area, but slums and blight activities would be evaluated on a case by case basis. 13 Priority Need Name Public Facilities Priority Level Low Population Non-housing Community Development Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Improvement of Public Facilities Planning and Administration Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 128 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description Work may be done on the Vernon Street school. Equipment will be purchased for the Jackson Street School playground. Work on the Forbes Library elevator is occurring this summer. No other public facilities projects have been brought forward by the City's Central Services Department that will utilize CDBG resources. Basis for Relative Priority Projects identified will be evaluated based on the numbers impacted, funds available and if the project addresses a high priority need. 14 Priority Need Name Public Infrastructure Priority Level Low Population Persons with Physical Disabilities Non-housing Community Development Geographic Areas Affected Programs are delivered city wide or in specific project locations. Associated Goals Improvement of Public Infrastructure Planning and Administration Description Installation of audio signalization at two intersections will be done this summer. Work has been delayed while other funding has been secured. There may be other intersections suggested by the Department of Public Works in the future, to serve disabled populations. The River Run Condominium development sidewalk is planned to coincide with Damon Road street work that will be undertaken by the Mass. Department of Transportaion. No other infrastructure projects have been brought forward at this time, for future CDBG expenditures. Basis for Relative Priority Use of CDBG funding for public infrastructure projects will be evaluated on a case by case basis. In most instances, income surveys need to be conducted to determine eligibility. The Department of Public Works often opts for other funding sources because all the contracting and reporting requirements for small amounts of CDBG funding are time consuming. Narrative (Optional) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 129 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-30 Influence of Market Conditions – 91.215 (b) Influence of Market Conditions Affordable Housing Type Market Characteristics that will influence the use of funds available for housing type Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Market rate rents in excess of Fair Market Rate rents and MRVP rents. TBRA for Non- Homeless Special Needs Market rate rents in excess of Fair Market Rate rents and MRVP rental subsidies. New Unit Production Land and/or building acquisition costs in excess of appraised values, therefore ineligible for State and Federal funding sources. Non-profits needing to find sellers willing to wait the long time periods it takes to secure needed funding. Rehabilitation Lack of resources for lead paint abatement. Acquisition, including preservation For preservation, purchase and carrying cost increases with ownership transfers, result in higher rental rates to cover mortgages, etc. Table 52 – Influence of Market Conditions Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 130 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-35 Anticipated Resources - 91.215(a)(4), 91.220(c)(1,2) Introduction The City of Northampton will use its entitlement funds to facilitate the implementation of priority projects as established in the Con Plan. City departments and public service agencies utilize many other funding sources to operate programs and bring projects to fruition. Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ CDBG public - federal Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 602,342 10,000 485,074 1,097,416 3,249,368 CDBG funds will be used for public facility projects; economic development; housing programs/projects; demolition; public service programs; and planning activities and administration of the grant. Expected remaining amount based on level funding; $10,000 per year program income and $200,000 carry-over annually Continuum of Care public - federal Housing 1,280,377 0 0 1,280,377 5,121,508 Supportive Housing and Shelter Plus Care programs. Expected remaining amount based on level funding over the next four years Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 131 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Other public - federal Acquisition Housing Public Improvements 1,746,200 0 0 1,746,200 4,800,000 Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds for:Pulaski Park - $1,450,000 will leverage state grant of $400,000 Conservation Commission - $116,200 purchase of open space parcel matched by $171,088 LAND grant Grantham Group - $130,000 - development of affordable assisted living at Village Hill matched by $1,125,000 in state and federal low income housing tax credits Northampton Recreation Department - $50,000 - playground at Lampron Park and Florence fields leverage by a state Our Common Backyards grant Other public - federal Housing 284,164 0 0 284,164 1,136,656 HOPWA funds for A Positive Place. Expected remaining amount based on level funding over the next four years Table 53 - Anticipated Resources Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied All City of Northampton CDBG funded projects require other funding sources in order to implement the project. Affordable housing applications to State and Federal funding sources require evidence of a local match. CDBG and Community Preservation Act funds, in addition to Smith Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 132 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) College are used as local match sources. Public facilities often have City budgeted Capital Improvement Program funds and private fundraising dollars, such as the Forbes Library Elevator Accessibility project. Public infrastructure projects typically utilize State Chapter 90 funding and other grant sources. Public service grants use a variety of other funding sources, such as FEMA, United Way and private fundraising. Some of the CDBG public service grantee awards are so small ($3,500) that their real value is for leveraging other sources and to show endorsement from the City of Northampton. If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Currently, the Office of Planning and Sustainability is working on two parcels for affordable housing development initiated by the City. The Oak Street is city owned. A tour and community session is scheduled for May 12, 2015. The site has challenges, but might accommodate a duplex by Habitat for Humanity. The other parcel on Cooke Avenue is privately owned but has no frontage. A comp permit is required for any development. It abuts conservation land and could be a limited development and open space project. An offer has been made by the City to the seller and is pending. CDBG funds are being set aside for this project to be used for acquisition in partnership with other sources. Beyond these two parcels, one other City owned parcel on Route 5 has been identified for possible development. The Northampton Housing Authority still has 2 parcels deeded to them through the disposition of the Northampton State Hospital property. Demolition of a farmhouse on Laurel Street occurred last year, paving the way for homeownership units to be constructed there. No State funds for homeownership projects have existed in the past several years. This year, they made some available. The other parcel on Burts Pit Road is slated for development for clients of the Department of Developmental Services. CDBG funding will be used to demolish the existing farmhouse on that parcel. The project has been designed and permitted, but no State funding sources released as of yet. Discussion The two affordable housing projects will utilize close to 20 million dollars each of State funding sources from the Department of Housing and Community Development's Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program, the Affordable Housing Trust, the Housing Innovations Fund, the Facilities and Consolidation Fund, and the Community Housing Program. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 133 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-40 Institutional Delivery Structure – 91.215(k) Explain the institutional structure through which the jurisdiction will carry out its consolidated plan including private industry, non-profit organizations, and public institutions. Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Type Role Geographic Area Served Office of Planning and Sustainability Government Planning Jurisdiction Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC) Non-profit organizations Economic Development Ownership Rental Region HAP Housing Non-profit organizations Ownership Rental Region ServiceNet, Inc. Non-profit organizations Homelessness Rental Region Northampton Housing Authority PHA Ownership Public Housing Rental Jurisdiction Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Government Homelessness Rental State Department of Developmental Services Government Rental State CASA LATINA, INC. Non-profit organizations Rental Jurisdiction Hilltown CDC Continuum of care Homelessness Planning Region Community Legal Aid, Inc. Non-profit organizations Homelessness Rental Region Center for New Americans Non-profit organizations Economic Development Rental public services Region COMMUNITY ACTION OF FRANKLIN, HAMPSHIRE AND NORTH QUABBIN Other Economic Development Homelessness Planning Rental Region Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 134 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Responsible Entity Responsible Entity Type Role Geographic Area Served Northampton Survival Center Non-profit organizations Homelessness Public Housing Rental public services Jurisdiction MANNA SOUP KITCHEN, INC. Community/Faith- based organization Homelessness Non-homeless special needs Jurisdiction Highland Valley Elder Services Regional organization Homelessness Non-homeless special needs Planning Region PIONEER VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Community/Faith- based organization Ownership Region Soldier On Community/Faith- based organization Homelessness Ownership Rental Region THE CENTER FOR HUMAN DEVELOPMENT (CHD) Non-profit organizations Homelessness Region A Positive Place Non-profit organizations Homelessness Rental Region City of Northampton Veterans Agent Government Homelessness Rental Region Eliot Community Human Services Non-profit organizations Homelessness State Table 54 - Institutional Delivery Structure Assess of Strengths and Gaps in the Institutional Delivery System There are some program components that address each target population if not locally, regionally. But those services are not sufficient to meet the needs. More State resources are needed for the Department of Mental Health, as so many homeless present with mental health issues. Resources for the DMH system have been woefully inadequate to serve the deinstitutionalized populations that now inhabit our jails and homeless shelters. The DMH system has shifted responsibility to other areas of service provision, as a defacto result of inadequate funding for case managers, community based programs and community based residential facilities. With regard to affordable housing production, it takes multiple application rounds to secure funding at the State level. State funding for domestic violence shelters and services have been cut by a third, each of the past two years. 26 funding sources make up the Housing and Shelter Division at ServiceNet, which Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 135 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) results in an inordinate amount of time away from direct service provision, just trying to keep the division adequately funded. The State created a Commission on Unaccompanied Youth and a Point in Time Count specific to youth was undertaken to define the universe of the population. Now it is time for the State to fund programs and services to address the needs of LGBT youth, those aging out of the foster care system and those struggling with substance abuse and mental health challenges. Addressing these issues with youth is the only way to close the door to an ever present and growing adult homeless population. Availability of services targeted to homeless persons and persons with HIV and mainstream services Homelessness Prevention Services Available in the Community Targeted to Homeless Targeted to People with HIV Homelessness Prevention Services Counseling/Advocacy X X X Legal Assistance X Mortgage Assistance X Rental Assistance X X X Utilities Assistance X Street Outreach Services Law Enforcement X X Mobile Clinics Other Street Outreach Services X X Supportive Services Alcohol & Drug Abuse X Child Care X Education X Employment and Employment Training X Healthcare X X X HIV/AIDS X X Life Skills X X X Mental Health Counseling X X X Transportation X Other Table 55 - Homeless Prevention Services Summary Describe how the service delivery system including, but not limited to, the services listed above meet the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 136 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Eliot CHS Homeless Services, through a grant from the Department of Mental Health, provides clinically based outreach services to unsheltered adult homeless individuals with mental illness or mental illness and substance abuse issues. They work closely with ServiceNet, Inc., SMOC and other housing and homeless service providers via monthly REACH meetings to identify and prioritize services for the most vulnerable and chronically homeless. Work is progressing on formalizing the new HUD centralized intake process to accomplish centralized intake and assessment through the V1-SPDAT. Eliot provides 2 full- time employees focused on outreach coverage for Hampshire County. They network with the Northampton Police, DMH and work with the City to identify and work with unsheltered populations to facilitate access to housing and treatment. Eliot clinicians accomplish this through stabilizing acute issues (psychological, behavioral and medical), by developing a common language between clinician and client that reinforces ownership and initiative toward attaining rehabilitative goals inclusive of housing. Assessment and referral may be to a variety of systems of care, such as MRC-SHIP, Public Health - Substance Abuse Services, DMH, DDS). The Hampshire County Resource Center, collocated at 43 Center Street with the winter shelter, serves as the entry point for our service delivery system for homeless individuals. Case managers do intake and assess the clients need for services. Health Care for the Homeless nurses and doctors are on- site several times a week. Clients who agree to participate in case management services are given access to showers and laundry facilities. Housing search begins there. Referrals are made to emergency shelter beds locally, and regionally if no local beds are available. Housing placements are made whenever possible. The Housing Partnership partnered with ServiceNet Inc. to garner a funding award from the Community Preservation Committee of 10,000 for first, last months rents and security deposits for those exiting homelessness to access housing. The Benefits Analyst links clients to MassHealth and income supports they may be eligible for. Veterans services are addressed by the City’s Veteran’s Agent, Soldier On and the Veteran’s Administration Campus in Leeds. Between the VA, Soldier On and the HUD VASH Program, there is a complete care continuum for men and women Vets, ranging from psychiatric and medical services to emergency shelter, transitional housing and permanent supported housing and limited equity coops. A Positive Place, formerly known as AidsCare of Hampshire County is a program of the Cooley Dickinson Hospital. A Positive Place receives HOPWA funds through the City of Springfield, through a competitive RFP Process. Referrals are often made from medical settings. Persons with HIV/AIDS are impacted by the lack of affordable housing. Support services to access mainstream resources occur through case management. Provision of tenant based rental assistance, housing information services, permanent housing placement and access to medical care are offered. Families with children can get referrals for health care and other mainstream resources through the Center for Human Development and the Department of Transitional Assistance. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 137 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Describe the strengths and gaps of the service delivery system for special needs population and persons experiencing homelessness, including, but not limited to, the services listed above The strengths in our system are the accessibility and availability of the Eliot PATH team for the street outreach and engagement services, as well as the commitment of the staff of the Resource Center who contribute countless hours to keeping the center open during inclement weather and struggle with housing search for a very challenged population. The local housing, social service and homeless service providers are incredible people that accomplish amazing things with limited resources. The gaps that have been identified through meetings and consulations include the following: • Street outreach, supportive housing and services for unaccompanied youth • Transitional housing for victims of domestic violence and their children • Next step housing for post-incarcerated individuals • Housing for sex offenders • Safe Haven program model for chronically homeless individuals Provide a summary of the strategy for overcoming gaps in the institutional structure and service delivery system for carrying out a strategy to address priority needs The City is hopeful that the Homeless Runaway Youth funding will come through for Dial Self to institute street outreach services for homeless youth. The Friends of Hampshire County Homeless Individuals are soliciting requests from local housing and homeless service providers to partner on the creation of a new program. The first project undertaken, Yvonne's House, was in partnership with ServiceNet, Inc. and is a duplex which houses 6 chronically homeless individuals. The second project, completed in conjunction with Mass Housing's CRI program, the CPC and local fundraising, partnered with Gandara and provides 6 units to individuals in recovery. The grass roots non-profit organization has raised funds for a third project and will gather research on a potential new partner through the RFP process. This will address one of the gaps identified above, for new housing needed. It is difficult to acheive new production goals when State funding takes multiple application rounds to secure. Funding for domestic violence shelters and services has been cut substantially over the last few years. That creates a critical gap in local systems. The ServiceNet Shelter and Housing division is composed of 26 funding sources; keeping track of that takes time away from client service. The State created a Commission on Unaccompanied Youth but has yet to allocate any programmatic dollars. State resources addressing the needs of youth aging out of the foster care system, LGBT youth, youth Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 138 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues, is where the intervention is needed in order to quell an ever burgeoning adult homeless population. Overall, the institutional structure operating in Northampton is comprehensive, holistic and collaborative. The service delivery system works as well as possible with limited resources. Greater collaboration with underserved populations is needed, as well as greater proactivity affirmatively furthering fair housing. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 139 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-45 Goals Summary – 91.215(a)(4) Goals Summary Information Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 1 Homelessness Prevention 2015 2019 Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs No geographic Priorities Designated Homelessness Prevention CDBG: $22,000 Continuum of Care: $449,584 CPA: $195,000 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $528,000 Homelessness Prevention: 55 Persons Assisted HIV/AIDS Housing Operations: 44 Household Housing Unit 2 Support for Emergency Shelter System 2015 2019 Homeless No geographic Priorities Designated Support for Emergency Shelter CDBG: $92,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Homeless Person Overnight Shelter: 375 Persons Assisted Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 140 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 3 Rental Housing for Families 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Rental Housing for Families CDBG: $300,000 Continuum of Care: $772,848 CPA: $600,000 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Rental units constructed: 127 Household Housing Unit 4 Rental Housing for Individuals 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Rental Housing for Individuals CDBG: $300,000 Continuum of Care: $4,028,344 CPA: $600,000 Rental units constructed: 127 Household Housing Unit 5 Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock CDBG: $0 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Other: 1521 Other Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 141 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 6 Housing Rehabilitation 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing Rehabilitation Resources CDBG: $640,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 20 Household Housing Unit 7 Affordable Homeownership for Families 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Affordable Homeownership for Families CDBG: $149,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Homeowner Housing Added: 12 Household Housing Unit Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers: 2 Households Assisted 8 Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations CDBG: $195,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $300,000 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Rental units constructed: 82 Household Housing Unit Buildings Demolished: 2 Buildings Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 142 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 9 Economic Development/Income Maximization 2015 2019 Economic Development/Income Maximization No geographic Priorities Designated Economic Development CDBG: $40,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Businesses assisted: 40 Businesses Assisted 10 Housing Support Services 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing Support Services CDBG: $40,000 CPA: $195,000 Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 380 Households Assisted 11 Addressing Basic Needs 2015 2019 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Addressing Basic Needs CDBG: $202,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 4900 Households Assisted 12 Elimination of Slums and Blight 2015 2016 Elimination of Slums and Blight No geographic Priorities Designated Elimination of Slums and Blight CDBG: $45,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Buildings Demolished: 1 Buildings Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 143 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 13 Improvement of Public Facilities 2015 2016 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Public Facilities CDBG: $50,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 200 Persons Assisted 14 Improvement of Public Infrastructure 2015 2019 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Public Infrastructure CDBG: $45,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 100 Households Assisted Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 144 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 15 Planning and Administration 2015 2019 Program Administration No geographic Priorities Designated Homelessness Prevention Support for Emergency Shelter Rental Housing for Individuals Rental Housing for Families Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Housing Rehabilitation Resources Affordable Homeownership for Families Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Economic Development Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Elimination of CDBG: $482,592 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 500 Persons Assisted Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 500 Households Assisted Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 3000 Persons Assisted Public service activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 3000 Households Assisted Facade treatment/business building rehabilitation: 0 Business Brownfield acres remediated: 0 Acre Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 145 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Slums and Blight Public Facilities Public Infrastructure Rental units constructed: 127 Household Housing Unit Rental units rehabilitated: 0 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Added: 4 Household Housing Unit Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 16 Household Housing Unit Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers: 12 Households Assisted Tenant-based rental assistance / Rapid Rehousing: 50 Households Assisted Homeless Person Overnight Shelter: 1200 Persons Assisted Overnight/Emergency Shelter/Transitional Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 146 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Housing Beds added: 0 Beds Homelessness Prevention: 500 Persons Assisted Jobs created/retained: 60 Jobs Businesses assisted: 15 Businesses Assisted Housing for Homeless added: 35 Household Housing Unit Housing for People with HIV/AIDS added: 5 Household Housing Unit HIV/AIDS Housing Operations: 5 Household Housing Unit Buildings Demolished: 3 Buildings Housing Code Enforcement/Foreclosed Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 147 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator Property Care: 0 Household Housing Unit Table 56 – Goals Summary Goal Descriptions 1 Goal Name Homelessness Prevention Goal Description City will allocate CDBG funding to Community Legal Aid for work with at-risk families in the court system to preserve tenancies ($5,500 annually). CPC support for Community Housing Support Services Program to work with families facing eviction in the multi-family apartment complexes and Housing Authority by conducting case management and life skills education ($195,000 for three years). City will support the Tenancy Preservation Program which stabilizes tenancies for individuals with mental health challenges through the Mental Health Association. A Positive Place works with housing search and housing stabilization for those with HIV/AIDS to prevent homelessness. (132,000 annual HOPWA and 112,396 McKinney). 2 Goal Name Support for Emergency Shelter System Goal Description The City will allocate CDBG funding for staffing costs at the Hampshire Inter-Faith Shelter for Homeless Individuals and the Grove Street Inn Homeless Shelter for individuals. Funding resources for shelter operational costs are difficult to secure, due to the paradigm shift to housing first models. The City will support the Soldier On emergency shelter beds through advocacy and services coordination, in addition to the Safe Passage emergency shelter facility for those experiencing domestic violence. $23,000 is allocated annually, $13,000 for Grove Street and $11,000 for the Interfaith Shelter; $92,000 for the duration of this Conplan. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 148 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 3 Goal Name Rental Housing for Families Goal Description The City has allocated CDBG and CPC funds to assist with the development of Valley CDC's Lumberyard Project and HAPHousing's 129 Pleasant Street affordable housing project. HAP's project contains studios and one bedroom apartments, but there may be two person households in the one bedroom units. Valley's project will have 14 one bedroom units, 34 two bedroom units and 7 three bedroom units, clearly focused on the provision of housing for families. The COC allocates McKinney funds to A Positive Place, housing subsidies for families with HIV/AIDS ( $112,396 annually); $58,067 to Hilltown CDC for Permanent Supported Housing; $22,749 for operating costs for Paradise Pond Apartments family housing for formerly homeless in Northampton. 4 Goal Name Rental Housing for Individuals Goal Description The City has allocated CDBG funds and CPC funds to both proposed affordable housing projects on Pleasant Street. Valley CDC's Lumberyard Project will contain 14 one bedroom units and all of HAP'S 129 Pleasant Street development is composed of studio apartments and one bedroom units. The HAP project contains 72 units, 48 of which will be considered affordable, but due to the size of the other 24 units, they will be market rate affordable. These are one time allocations of $300,000 from CPC for each project, and $150,000 each from CDBG for acquisition costs. The CoC allocates funds annually to permanent supportive housing projects throughout the three county region. Local residents are eligible for the housing, even if it is not physically located in Northampton. ServiceNet, Inc. gets $719,656 for permanent supportive housing units as well as $175,887 for a Shelter plus Care program; Soldier On receives $52,527 for one program and $59,016 for a new permanent supported housing program. 5 Goal Name Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Goal Description The Northampton Housing Partnership monitors the expiring use properties in the City. There is regular communication with Hathaway Farms, the second largest apartment complex in the City and the owners of Leeds Village. Hathaway Farms went market rate in 1993 but has retained some affordable units. With the pending termination of a MassHousing Loan, the 207 units will slip below the 25% threshold required for counting the units on the Subsidized Housing Inventory. This makes the need for additional units imperative. Leeds Village expires in 2018 but the owner has expressed interest in maintaining the affordability of those 19 units. The majority of the other units on the inventory are deed restricted for many years out. The City commits staff time to this important task, but has no dollars to allocate. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 149 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 6 Goal Name Housing Rehabilitation Goal Description The City has allocated $160,000 of CDBG funds this year to create a housing rehabilitation program. A Request for Proposals to select a vendor will be issued in June. A focus on lead paint abatement is being considered, due to the age of the housing stock and the possible impediment to access for families with children. The scope of work is 4-6 units to be completed each year, if CDBG funding remains stable. Assuming that amount of 160,000 is available for each of the next four years, that yields a $640,000 investment. 7 Goal Name Affordable Homeownership for Families Goal Description The City utilized CDBG dollars last year to accomplish the demolition of a farmhouse on Laurel Street. This parcel is slated for development of homeownership units for families currently in public housing. It is hoped that within the term of this five year plan, the new Executive Director at the Housing Authority will prioritize this project and it will advance significantly. The City has set aside $45,000 for a potential purchase of a site off of Cooke Avenue for pursuit of a limited development/open space acquisition project. The parcel has no frontage, so could possibly accommodate the creation of a duplex housing unit through Habitat for Humanity, through the issuance of a comprehensive permit. Two other sites are being considered for potential development. The City supports the Valley CDC's Homeownership Center with downpayment assistance grants and staffing capacity. Educational workshops help to inform first time homebuyers about the responsibilities and need for financial literacy to avoid foreclosures. $26,000 annually. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 150 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 8 Goal Name Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Goal Description The City is allocating $45,000 to the Northampton Housing Authority to demolish the farmhouse on the Burts Pit Road parcel. Although the project was designed and permitted to create new housing for clients of the Department of Developmental Disabilities several years ago, it has languished at the State level due to lack of funding (2 million dollars from an old Chapter 689 allocation). Hopefully, now that site clearance is moving forward, the NHA will prioritze moving this project forward and funding will be secured within the implermentation period of this five year plan. The HAPHousing project, because it involves demolition of an existing 58 unit SRO that is fully occupied, will be providing high quality new housing for the existing tenants. Many of the current tenants are formerly homeless, some are DMH case managed and many have criminal and sex offender histories. Individuals with so many challenges often struggle with access to and maintenance of affordable housing. The Resident Services Coordinator and Supportive Services Plan will contribute significantly to housing stability for these at-risk households. 9 Goal Name Economic Development/Income Maximization Goal Description The City supports the Valley CDC Small Business Assistance Program with an annual CDBG allocation. Funds are used to provide one on one technical assistance and counseling to 8-10 income eligible residents for business start ups. Assistance is also provided to businesses with five or less employees to retain and or create new job opportunities. The annual allocation is $10,000; $40,000 for four years total. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 151 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 10 Goal Name Housing Support Services Goal Description The City allocates CDBG resources annually to the Single Room Occupancy Outreach Coordinator position ($10,000). This is a one person operation administered by the Center for Human Development that was created when the State hospital was deinstitutionalized. The Coordinator provides case management and support services to residents of the City's SRO units to stabilize housing for at-risk populations. They operate a food pantry to address food insecurity issues, collaborate with local housing and homeless service providers and will play a major role assisting tenants in the Northampton Lodging demolition and relocation project (HAPHousing's Pleasant Street affordable housing project). The City will also allocate CPC funds in the amount of $195,000 over three years for a Community Housing Support Services Coordinator. That person will assist families in subsidized apartments that are at-risk of losing their housing. They will have a presence in the court system to identify families most at risk and provide intensive case management services. The selected vendor, the Center for Human Development will utilize their rep payee system in their agency as a housing stabilization tool, and offer life skills, financial literacy and budgeting workshops for residents in all multi-family locations, such as Housing Authority properties, Hathaway Farms and Meadowbrook. 11 Goal Name Addressing Basic Needs Goal Description CDBG public services allocations are made to a variety of grantees. Service provision ranges from elder meals on wheels, youth employment readiness, emergency food distribution, mentoring at-risk youth, soup kitchen operation and literacy and language attainment. The total of funds allocated this year ( with the exception of the Grove Street Inn and Interfaith shelter which were included in the Support for Emergency Shelter Goal section; and excluding the SRO Outreach Project which was included in the Housing Support Services Goal section and the Community Legal Aid project which was included in the Homelessness Prevention section ) is 50,500. Assuming the CDBG entitlement allocation does not diminish, that would yield an expenditure of 202,000 over the next five years. 12 Goal Name Elimination of Slums and Blight Goal Description CDBG will allocate $45,000 for demolition activity at the Burts Pit Road site to facilitate future development. This parcel was deeded to the Northampton Housing Authority for the creation of affordable rental housing. The current plan is to house 10 clients of the Department of Developmental Disabilities. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 152 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 13 Goal Name Improvement of Public Facilities Goal Description $20,000 will be allocated to the Department of Public Works to install audio signals at two crosswalk locations to assist the visually impaired. $30,000 will be allocated to the Central Services Department to purchase playground equipment for installation at the Jackson Street School for use by children with disabilities. There may be CDBG assistance allocated for handicap accessibility improvements at the Vernon Street school which is leased by Community Action, the anti- poverty agency for the HeadStart Program and other programs such as Fuel Assistance. There are no other public facilities projects planned at this time. 14 Goal Name Improvement of Public Infrastructure Goal Description River Run condominium development is considered market rate affordable housing. Unit sales prices are lower than most in the City and many of the units are absentee owned and rented at affordable rates. It is in an isolated location and residents have to walk in the road to access nearby services. Damon Road is adjacent to the development and is highly traveled and dangerous for pedestrians. Installing a sidewalk for safety and improved access would be a benefit to the residents. When the design elements come together with the State Department of Transportation further eligiblity determination will be carried out such as a resident income survey. 15 Goal Name Planning and Administration Goal Description CDBG planning and administration funds will be used over the course of the ConPlan to operate the program. This year is $120,648 so assuming level funding, the total was estimated. Estimate the number of extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate-income families to whom the jurisdiction will provide affordable housing as defined by HOME 91.315(b)(2) For the Valley CDC Lumberyard Project proposed for 256 Pleasant Street; 8 units will be made available to those earning <30% area median income and 47 earning at or below 60% of area median income. For the HAPHousing 155/Live Project (formerly known as 129 Pleasant Street, Northampton Lodging SRO); 8 units will be set aside for those extremely low income ranges of <30% of ami, 8 at the very low range of <50%, and 24 at the low income range of <60% of area median income. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 153 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-50 Public Housing Accessibility and Involvement – 91.215(c) Need to Increase the Number of Accessible Units (if Required by a Section 504 Voluntary Compliance Agreement) Despite the need for handicap accessible units expressed by the Stavros Center for Independent Living, the Northampton Housing Authority reports very low numbers on their wait lists for those units. It may be related to minimal turnover, so people are reluctant to apply. 31 of the 618 units managed by the Housing Authority are handicapped accessible.The new units being created in the two affordable housing projects proposed for Pleasant Street will add units to the inventory. There is no Section 504 Voluntary Compliance agreement requirement for the Housing Authority to increase their number of units. Activities to Increase Resident Involvements The Housing Authority encourages tenants to attend the Board of Commissioners meetings held monthly to express comments and concerns. Tenant associations exist in most of the elderly/younger disabled developments but are not currently active in the two family developments. The NHA has been supportive of the Housing Partnership's application to the Community Preservation Committee to fund the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator and is committed to working collaboratively with that person. The Housing Authority issues a high number of notices to quit, usually for non-payment of rent, but does not end up actually evicting many families each year. That is indicative of their commitment to arrange payment plans and support services to preserve tenancies when possible. When the new Executive Director is selected, the Housing Partnership and Next Step Collaborative will invite the person to their meetings to provide context about the new grant (Community Housing Support Services Project) and share what was learned while doing the research. The Springfield Housing Authority Resident Services Program offers a wide variety of supports and programming and the SHA program was examined as a model. The SHA offers on-site after school programs, on-site recreational activities for youth, on-site financial literacy and budgeting workshops, Department of Mental Health home visits, an early childhood reading program and cultivate a system of active tenant councils, among other activities. It is our plan to create similar programming in Northampton once the person is hired and does their own needs assessment of where services should be targeted and what types are needed. Reinvigorating the tenant associations at Hampshire Heights and Florence Heights and strengthening their relationships with the adjacent elementary schools is a prominent goal. Currently, Jackson Street school and Hampshire Heights are very symbiotic. With the high percentage of Hispanic people in the public housing, addressing language barriers comes to the forefront. The person that has just been hired for the CHSSP Coordinator position, is fluent in Spanish. Is the public housing agency designated as troubled under 24 CFR part 902? No Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 154 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Plan to remove the ‘troubled’ designation Not applicable. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 155 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-55 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.215(h) Barriers to Affordable Housing The 2014 Fair Housing Equity Assessment conducted for the Sustainable Knowledge Corridor (PVPC) describes intervention points where local government actions can affect barriers to affordable housing:“State & local planning documents that do not address fair housing; lack of coordination & funding for programs that promote mobility; inadequate fair housing enforcement & education to address discrimination & barriers that limit housing access; too few legislative solutions to overcome impediments; lack of collaboration among governmental entities, zoning regulations that prohibit affordable and multi-family housing and/or make the creation of those units prohibitively expensive; lack of data to determine if entities receiving Federal financing are meeting their goals to affirmatively further fair housing. It adds the following components at the more macro level: lack of affordable housing in a variety of locations and predatory lending, redlining and other housing discriminatory practices, especially against persons of color. At the housing provider level, landlords that refuse to make modifications or reasonable accommodation, those who refuse to accept housing subsidies as a source of rental payment, linguistic profiling, and rental discrimination against families with young children due to presence or potential presence of lead-based paint hazards”, are all issues to be addressed. The Housing Partnership’s Zoning Sub-Committee has identified zoning related issues that are problematic. Multi-family housing allowed by right and inclusionary zoning continues to be analyzed to increase market rate affordable units.There are no other specific public policies under scrutiny at this time but the City of Northampton will continue to do outreach and in the course of implementing the recommendations in the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing, be open to proactively address specific policies that may be identified that need to be examined and changed. Strategy to Remove or Ameliorate the Barriers to Affordable Housing To promote racial and economic integration and affirmatively further fair housing, Northampton should develop more affordable housing. According to a recent newspaper article, many current residents and minorities who are interested in residing in Northampton are priced out. The overall median rent price in Northampton is $1,400, which is higher than the Springfield metropolitan median of $1,000.Northampton rents have been trending upward in the last 2-3 years. For example, last year the rent for three-bedroom apartments increased from $1,250 to $1,350 in one year. To increase housing opportunities for minority households and affirmatively further fair housing for families with minor children, Northampton should create more three- and four-bedroom affordable housing units. Only 16% of all rental housing units in Northampton have 3 or more bedrooms. Yet these units are needed by families of color in Northampton, where over 40% of Black and Latino households had 4 or more people living together. Over 34% of Asian family households had 4 or more Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 156 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) people living together. In comparison, only 28% of White non-Latino households were made up of 4 or more people. There are also significant racial gaps in access to homeownership in Northampton. To address these racial disparities in homeownership, Northampton must investigate best practices and provide options, e.g. down payment assistance, to increase affordable homeownership opportunities. Using the federal formula of affordability for rental housing (rent and utilities should be no more than 30% of a household’s income), an apartment for a household of 2 with the average gross household income for Northampton ($54,953), can barely meet that threshold for an “affordable” two-bedroom home, which by federal standards would cost $1,373 per month. The issue of the fair market rent being so much lower than rental rates continues to be a huge barrier to accessing affordable housing in Northampton. The Housing Partnership will address this in year one and develop a strategy in subsequent years. The issue of unreported housing discrimination, related to income source, need for reasonable accommodation, or presence of lead paint will also be investigated and pursued. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 157 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-60 Homelessness Strategy – 91.215(d) Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs The City of Northampton works closely with Eliot Homeless Services based in Framingham that operates locally through a statewide vendor contract from the Department of Mental Health. The PATH Program (Project for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) provides mental health assessment, treatment, advocacy, benefit assistance, DMH referrals, housing assistance and other support services to the adult homeless population. PATH provides street outreach clinicians in Westfield, Holyoke, Greenfield, Pittsfield, Amherst and Northampton. Northampton’s outreach worker can often be found in his “office” at Bruegger’s Bagels on Main Street, meeting with clients. He visits the Resource Center (homeless drop- in site at 43 Center Street) regularly, participates in coordinated case management meetings with Resource Center and shelter staff, facilitates groups 2-3 mornings a week through the fall and winter that function as a “warming place” where housing and employment information is disseminated, does one on one therapy and surveys camp locations to link the unsheltered with needed resources. Eliot CHS works closely with ServiceNet, SMOC and other housing and service providers via monthly REACH meetings and has made progress formalizing the new HUD Centralized intake process to prioritize the most vulnerable chronically homeless individuals. The two fulltime Eliot employees doing outreach coverage for Hampshire County also network with the Northampton Police, the Department of Mental Health and accept community calls to help find unsheltered individuals. Although no CDBG funds are allocated, this street level engagement component is critical to our homelessness strategy. With the gaining momentum of the VISPDAT (Vulnerability Index-Service Prioritization Decision Assistance tool in both the Three County (Berkshire, Franklin and Hampshire) and Springfield/Hampden County C0C’s, assessment, coordination and placement will become more efficient in the very near future. Street outreach updates are provided by the PATH clinician at every monthly Next Step Collaborative meeting. The family homeless system is operated by the Commonwealth. The Department of Housing and Community Development and Department of Transitional Assistance have their own intake and assessment system. With no family homeless shelter programs in Northampton and no unsheltered families identified through the local PIT, family referrals are made to the Center for Human Development which administers programs throughout Hampshire and Hampden counties. Hopefully, funds will be secured in the coming year to add a Youth Street Outreach component to our local services continuum. There is a population of young adults that cycle through the City every summer. The school McKinney Coordinator indicates a growing number of unaccompanied youth at the high school, so there is a need for additional resources for youth services. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 158 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Addressing the emergency and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City will continue to support the operations, with CDBG allocations and letters of support to other funding sources, of the two emergency shelters for individuals operated by Service Net, Safe Passage and Soldier On. There are 2 emergency shelters for the general individual population, an emergency shelter for victims of domestice violence and 13 emergency beds at Soldier On for Veterans. With the paradigm shift to a housing first model, there is no plan to increase the number of emergency shelter beds. The Next Step Collaborative makes an assessment at the end of each summer based on the numbers living outside, as to shelter bed capacity for the coming winter. With the overflow beds in Easthampton and the winter shelter in Amherst, the majority of those seeking emergency shelter have been able to be accommodated. The Grove Street Inn has 4 transitional beds where guests in need of more time beyond the 60 days to assemble resources can stay. Soldier On has 174 transitional beds for Veterans and Grace House has 14 units or 35 transitional beds for women in recovery and their children. Safe Passage has expressed the need for transitional housing units for their families. There are some providers who support the transitional housing unit type, despite HUD's push to convert them to permanent supported units. The defined time period of 24 months works as a parameter for clients to achieve certain milestones and develop skill sets necessary to maintain permanent units. With the exception of Safe Passage, the City has no plans to increase the number of transitional housing units. Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again. The Northampton Housing Partnership worked in conjunction with ServiceNet, Inc. to make a request to the Community Preservation Committee for funds for first, last months rent and security deposits for homeless people to access housing. Most landlords require all three which makes for a large sum of money for someone to accumulate in order to rent an apartment. The local providers assemble and identify clients most ready to access housing. If possible, repayments are made to the fund when people are stable in their housing, to keep dollars available for the next person. Time periods for homelessness are largely dependent on available resources for referral. The CoC HMIS Administrator reports average lengths of stays as follows: for families = 84 days; for individuals 104 days; for the chronically homeless 500 days, for Veterans = 104 days and 104 days for persons with HIV/AIDS. The SRO Outreach Coordinator, Eliot Services, the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator, Resident Services Coordinators and Department of Mental Health Case Managers all assist the formerly homeless with what they need to remain stable in their housing. Activities could include income Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 159 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) maximization, community meal and food pantry access to ameliorate food insecurity and leave more of their income for housing costs, nutitional support to be physically healthy, referrals to medical treatment, provision of transportation to appointments and food sites, information dissemination on landlord tenant mediation to resolve conflicts that put housing at risk, intervention from the Tenancy Preservation Program when mental health challenges manifest in hoarding situations that put housing at risk, etc. The provider community benefits from a new tool called the HOT, developed by the Data Coordinator for the Network to End Homelessness which identifies vacant beds in the Continuum, so no time is lost making referrals. Help low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families who are likely to become homeless after being discharged from a publicly funded institution or system of care, or who are receiving assistance from public and private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education or youth needs There are several entities working on homelessness prevention. They are: Community Legal Aid working with families in the court system with eviction notices,the SRO Outreach Coordinator, the Tenancy Preservation Program, Highland Valley Elder Services/Protective Services, the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator, the Center for Human Development working with families and FOR Families, working with HAPHousing doing case management for families in hotels/motels. All those efforts include case management focused on preserving existing tenancies, as it is more humane and cost efficient than serving people in shelter. The CoC works on protocol planning with publicly funded systems and institutions, all of which have State policies prohibiting them from discharging people into homelessness. The local hospital has a good working relationship with area shelters, the Department of Mental Health is a present community partner and collaborator on housing placements and case management, the Department of Children and Families increased their age limit for services to youth to 21, to serve those lacking life skills to live independently, and the Reintegration Program at the Hampshire County house of Corrections holds a monthly roundtable with area providers to avoid discharges into homelessness. These efforts are not always successful, due to the lack of options for referrals, but the structure is in place to make the best use of what is available. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 160 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-65 Lead based paint Hazards – 91.215(i) Actions to address LBP hazards and increase access to housing without LBP hazards Through consultations with the Board of Health associated with the formulation of this plan and the recommendations of the Impediments to Fair Housing Analysis, the Northampton Housing Partnership has pledged to investigate this issue further. The providers working with families in the court system do not see evidence of the nexus between this issue and fair housing, per say. As stated earlier, the CLPP rates are not showing we have a poisoning issue. What we do not know is, are their landlords in the community who are refusing to rent to families because they think they may have lead paint on the premises and due to their reluctance to face the abatement process, just say no. With 63% of all housing units in the community having been built prior to 1960, there must be many homes with remnants of lead based paint. The Housing Partnership will continue to send out a letter under the Mayor's signature in the annual census request to multi family property owners with information on abatement resources. If the State Get the Lead Out Program has funds, that information will be disseminated. The NHP has been reluctant to hold informational workshops on abatement with no resources to offer. Landlords do not want to come forward, as it is a public acknowledgement that they may need to address the issue in their units. The Board of Health has agreed to collect data on abatement certifications moving forward. The information they have now is in a card file, so it cannot be sorted. An electronic data base will be used to collect only that data seperately, in the future. How are the actions listed above related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards? Current personnel in the Board of Health report they cannot give accurate data on the numbers of units in the community where lead paint abatement has occurred. They will track this moving forward. Ed Smith, the Health Inspector says they are always contacted by doctor's offices if a child tests above minimum lead standards during pediatric visits; he says he would have expected an increase with universal health care coverage but hasn't noticed one. Public housing and subsidized housing have been abated to his knowledge. Private housing stock is where he says he needs to remember especially to test; asking if there are children and how old is a line on the inspection forms so he says he would rarely would miss that. He occasionally get requests from concerned parents about flaking paint and their worries about lead dangers; the most recent one the parents called in their last month of tenancy, they had been reluctant to alarm the landlord. Unfortunately, typical of the fear involved with reporting and repercussions, or possible denial of access to housing. It is suspected, that due to the age of the housing stock, there remains lead paint in the community, but poison incidence rates are non existent and renters don't always come forward when denied an apartment by a landlord. It is difficult to get a handle on the universe of the problem, with no complaints and no data. Work will continue during the term of this Conplan to do more research. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 161 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) How are the actions listed above integrated into housing policies and procedures? Service providers are encouraged to inform their clients that anyone can call the Health and Building Inspections Departments and ask for a Health Department housing inspection. Ed Smith does those and he has a State Certification as a Lead Determinator and as a Construction Supervisor. He conducts lead tests as part of housing inspections if appropriate). He has also been a registered Home Improvement Contractor and has completed the Renovation, Repair and Painting Training that is required for contractors who disturb lead paint surfaces during the course of their work. He brings that background and perspective to the Northampton Health Housing inspections and it informs his inspections and Orders to Correct that he writes. In that way, the City is actively working on lead paint issues, by maintaining our mandated services at a higher than required level. He has offered to participate in any workshop designed for homeowners, landlords and contractors. The reason why we have not conducted such a workshop before is because there were no abatement resources to offer. The State Get the Lead Out Program's funding allocations fluctuate greatly. We have heard from the landlord community people would be reluctant to come out because they fear the issue, the costs and the repercussions if they reveal themselves having a potential problem. It has been difficult determining how to get the information out to the people that need it. Lead Paint abatement is an area we could focus our new housing rehab program on for the first year as a trial to see if people would come forward. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 162 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-70 Anti-Poverty Strategy – 91.215(j) Jurisdiction Goals, Programs and Policies for reducing the number of Poverty-Level Families The goal of the City's anti-poverty strategy is to continue to fund projects that focus holistically on economic empowerment for underserved families and individuals. For years, CDBG allocations have been made to the Center for New Americans Career Pathways Program, The PassPort to Success Project of The Literacy Project, Community Action's Youth Employment Readiness Project, the Valley Community Development Corporation's Small Business Entreprenurial Assistance Program and provided down payment assistance to First Time Homebuyers. City facilities are utilized by Community Action, the regions CAP agency. The Vernon Street School houses the Fuel Assistance and Weatherization Programs, as well as Head Start and other programs. The James House child care room is used by their Early Child Intervention programs and home based child care providers. The City also supports a Living Wage campaign that through the work of Community Legal Aid and volunteers, has secured commitments from 42 local businesses to pay a living wage to their employees. How are the Jurisdiction poverty reducing goals, programs, and policies coordinated with this affordable housing plan The two new developments proposed for Pleasant Street ( HAPHousing 72 units/48 affordable, Valley CDC 55 units/all affordable) are being required by the City to provide on site support services. Funding for Resident Service coordinators is included in both of their One Stop applications to the Department of Housing and Community Development. Financial literacy workshops, one on one budget counseling (and other supports that may be needed) will have a huge impact on housing stability, eviction and homelessness prevention and higher success rates for tenant and landlord alike. Massachusetts has lagged behind Connecticut in building line items for support services provision in the operating pro formas for housing development. Permanent supported housing, we know is the key to stabilizing individuals and families that face many challenges. Northampton is blessed to have an extensive and caring support services community. Most of the services they provide to people that are housed are not compensated for. It is time to change that. Securing financial resources from the Department of Housing and Community Development for support services is imperative. Homeless prevention and housing stabilization activities will continue to be funded to the extent CDBG allocations allow (entitlement has been reduced 30% over the last 4-5 years). This year $16,000 had to be cut from the $93,000 allocation. No one program receives more than $13,000. Some of the amounts are so small the agencies use them merely to leverage other funds and to show City support for their programming. Funding staff capacity for the two general population emergency shelters and the SRO Outreach Project have been the core of the City's commitment for decades. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 163 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) SP-80 Monitoring – 91.230 Describe the standards and procedures that the jurisdiction will use to monitor activities carried out in furtherance of the plan and will use to ensure long-term compliance with requirements of the programs involved, including minority business outreach and the comprehensive planning requirements The monitoring process begins with the application for funds. CEDO staff review the applications for accuracy, make a determination about whether the request addresses a high priority need; assesses staffing capacity, milestones, performance measurements and availability and adequacy of the funds to achieve the goals. If an applicant is selected to receive funds (upon recommendations by the Ad Hoc Public Services Review Committee for public service requests, by the Northampton Housing Partnership for housing related projects, to the Mayor for final approval) the contract is reviewed with the grantee to insure they understand their responsibilities and the data required on the quarterly and final report forms. When the quarterly reports are submitted, CEDO staff review them for accuracy and progress, prior to processing the invoice. Data submitted and subsequently entered into IDIS provide an up to date account of the numbers being served, the racial and ethnicity of those being served and if the project is on track for successful completion. That data is also utilized for identification of high priority needs and community planning purposes. The CDBG Administrator conducts on site monitoring visits annually and utilizes HUD approved monitoring forms. The monitoring visits are very interactive allowing for staff to update grantees about other activities occurring in the City, other efforts to address trends and issues identified, possibilities for collaborations among service providers and general moral support and appreciation for the work being done in the community. When working with City departments and outside organizations on non-public service projects, efforts are undertaken to insure outreach to minority firms and workers. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 164 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Expected Resources AP-15 Expected Resources – 91.220(c)(1,2) Introduction The City of Northampton will use its entitlement funds to facilitate the implementation of priority projects as established in the Con Plan. City departments and public service agencies utilize many other funding sources to operate programs and bring projects to fruition. Anticipated Resources Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ CDBG public - federal Acquisition Admin and Planning Economic Development Housing Public Improvements Public Services 602,342 10,000 485,074 1,097,416 3,249,368 CDBG funds will be used for public facility projects; economic development; housing programs/projects; demolition; public service programs; and planning activities and administration of the grant. Expected remaining amount based on level funding; $10,000 per year program income and $200,000 carry-over annually Continuum of Care public - federal Housing 1,280,377 0 0 1,280,377 5,121,508 Supportive Housing and Shelter Plus Care programs. Expected remaining amount based on level funding over the next four years Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 165 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Program Source of Funds Uses of Funds Expected Amount Available Year 1 Expected Amount Available Reminder of ConPlan $ Narrative Description Annual Allocation: $ Program Income: $ Prior Year Resources: $ Total: $ Other public - federal Acquisition Housing Public Improvements 1,746,200 0 0 1,746,200 4,800,000 Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds for:Pulaski Park - $1,450,000 will leverage state grant of $400,000 Conservation Commission - $116,200 purchase of open space parcel matched by $171,088 LAND grant Grantham Group - $130,000 - development of affordable assisted living at Village Hill matched by $1,125,000 in state and federal low income housing tax credits Northampton Recreation Department - $50,000 - playground at Lampron Park and Florence fields leverage by a state Our Common Backyards grant Other public - federal Housing 284,164 0 0 284,164 1,136,656 HOPWA funds for A Positive Place. Expected remaining amount based on level funding over the next four years Table 57 - Expected Resources – Priority Table Explain how federal funds will leverage those additional resources (private, state and local funds), including a description of how matching requirements will be satisfied All City of Northampton CDBG funded projects require other funding sources in order to implement the project. Affordable housing applications to State and Federal funding sources require evidence of a local match. CDBG and Community Preservation Act funds, in addition to Smith College are used as local match sources. Public facilities often have City budgeted Capital Improvement Program funds and private fundraising Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 166 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) dollars, such as the Forbes Library Elevator Accessibility project. Public infrastructure projects typically utilize State Chapter 90 funding and other grant sources. Public service grants use a variety of other funding sources, such as FEMA, United Way and private fundraising. Some of the CDBG public service grantee awards are so small ($3,500) that their real value is for leveraging other sources and to show endorsement from the City of Northampton. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 167 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) If appropriate, describe publically owned land or property located within the jurisdiction that may be used to address the needs identified in the plan Currently, the Office of Planning and Sustainability is working on two parcels for affordable housing development initiated by the City. The Oak Street is city owned. A tour and community session is scheduled for May 12, 2015. The site has challenges, but might accommodate a duplex by Habitat for Humanity. The other parcel on Cooke Avenue is privately owned but has no frontage. A comp permit is required for any development. It abuts conservation land and could be a limited development and open space project. An offer has been made by the City to the seller and is pending. CDBG funds are being set aside for this project to be used for acquisition in partnership with other sources. Beyond these two parcels, one other City owned parcel on Route 5 has been identified for possible development. The Northampton Housing Authority still has 2 parcels deeded to them through the disposition of the Northampton State Hospital property. Demolition of a farmhouse on Laurel Street occurred last year, paving the way for homeownership units to be constructed there. No State funds for homeownership projects have existed in the past several years. This year, they made some available. The other parcel on Burts Pit Road is slated for development for clients of the Department of Developmental Services. CDBG funding will be used to demolish the existing farmhouse on that parcel. The project has been designed and permitted, but no State funding sources released as of yet. Discussion The two affordable housing projects will utilize close to 20 million dollars each of State funding sources from the Department of Housing and Community Development's Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program, the Affordable Housing Trust, the Housing Innovations Fund, the Facilities and Consolidation Fund, and the Community Housing Program. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 168 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Annual Goals and Objectives AP-20 Annual Goals and Objectives Goals Summary Information Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 1 Homelessness Prevention 2015 2019 Homeless Non-Homeless Special Needs No geographic Priorities Designated Homelessness Prevention CDBG: $15,500 HOPWA: $132,000 Homelessness Prevention: 215 Persons Assisted 2 Support for Emergency Shelter System 2015 2019 Homeless No geographic Priorities Designated Support for Emergency Shelter CDBG: $23,000 Homeless Person Overnight Shelter: 375 Persons Assisted 3 Rental Housing for Families 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Rental Housing for Families CDBG: $300,000 Continuum of Care: $154,569 CPA: $600,000 Rental units constructed: 127 Household Housing Unit Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 169 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 4 Rental Housing for Individuals 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Rental Housing for Individuals CDBG: $300,000 Continuum of Care: $805,669 CPA: $600,000 Rental units constructed: 86 Household Housing Unit Housing for Homeless added: 86 Household Housing Unit 5 Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock CDBG: $120,648 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Homelessness Prevention: 1521 Persons Assisted 6 Housing Rehabilitation 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing Rehabilitation Resources CDBG: $160,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Homeowner Housing Rehabilitated: 4 Household Housing Unit Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 170 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 7 Affordable Homeownership for Families 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Affordable Homeownership for Families CDBG: $29,000 Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 45 Persons Assisted Direct Financial Assistance to Homebuyers: 3 Households Assisted 8 Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations CDBG: $300,000 Continuum of Care: $874,517 Housing for Homeless added: 66 Household Housing Unit Housing for People with HIV/AIDS added: 23 Household Housing Unit 9 Economic Development/Income Maximization 2015 2019 Economic Development/Income Maximization No geographic Priorities Designated Economic Development CDBG: $15,500 Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 30 Persons Assisted Jobs created/retained: 3 Jobs Businesses assisted: 10 Businesses Assisted 10 Housing Support Services 2015 2019 Affordable Housing No geographic Priorities Designated Housing Support Services CDBG: $10,000 CPA: $65,000 Homelessness Prevention: 145 Persons Assisted Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 171 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Sort Order Goal Name Start Year End Year Category Geographic Area Needs Addressed Funding Goal Outcome Indicator 11 Addressing Basic Needs 2015 2019 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Addressing Basic Needs CDBG: $39,000 Public service activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 1225 Persons Assisted 12 Elimination of Slums and Blight 2015 2016 Elimination of Slums and Blight No geographic Priorities Designated Elimination of Slums and Blight CDBG: $45,000 Buildings Demolished: 1 Buildings 13 Improvement of Public Facilities 2015 2016 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Public Facilities CDBG: $50,000 Continuum of Care: $0 CPA: $0 ESG: $0 HOPWA: $0 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities other than Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 300 Persons Assisted 14 Improvement of Public Infrastructure 2015 2019 Non-Housing Community Development No geographic Priorities Designated Public Infrastructure CDBG: $45,000 Public Facility or Infrastructure Activities for Low/Moderate Income Housing Benefit: 200 Households Assisted Table 58 – Goals Summary Goal Descriptions Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 172 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 1 Goal Name Homelessness Prevention Goal Description The City will allocate CDBG funds to Community Legal Aid ($5,500), the SRO Outreach Project ($10,000) to work with residents at risk of homelessness to stabilize their housing. CPC funds will be utilized for the Community Housing Support Services Project to work with at risk families and the HOPWA award to A Positive Place will work to prevent homelessness for people living with HIV/Aids. 2 Goal Name Support for Emergency Shelter System Goal Description The City will allocate CDBG funds to the Hampshire Inter-Faith Winter Shelter ($11,000) and the Grove Street Inn Homeless Shelter for Individuals ($13,000). 3 Goal Name Rental Housing for Families Goal Description CDBG allocations will be made to the Valley CDC for the Lumberyard Project. It will provide 55 units ranging from one bedroom to three bedroom units, all of which could accommodate family households. A CDBG allocation will also be made to the 129 Pleasant Street Northampton Lodging development which will be 72 units of rental housing, in studios and one bedroom units. The CoC will garner McKinney funding for the Paradise Pond Apartments and A Positive Place, both rental unit programs for families. 4 Goal Name Rental Housing for Individuals Goal Description The CDBG allocation listed in the rental housing for families, is repeated here. 14 of the 55 units at the Lumberyard are one bedroom units, which could accommodate individual households. It is possible that the 72 total units, 48 affordable at 129 Pleasant Street could all be individual households, as the total inventory is comprised of studio and one bedroom units. The CoC has permanent supported housing units across the three counties, but 14 are based in Northampton at this point in time. 5 Goal Name Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Goal Description Although no dollars will be expended on a project, staff time included in the CDBG Planning and administration budget line item will be spent monitoring the 1,521 units on the Subsidized Housing Inventory to insure none are lost to the community. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 173 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 6 Goal Name Housing Rehabilitation Goal Description 7 Goal Name Affordable Homeownership for Families Goal Description The CDC's First Time Homebuyer workshops help to educate and qualify households for homeownership opportunities. 45 households will be served and three down payment assistance grants will be utilized to facilitate home purchases in Northampton. 8 Goal Name Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Goal Description The CDBG allocations to the Valley CDC and HAPHousing new projects on Pleasant Street are counted with this goal too, as the units being created will be available to homeless, formerly homeless and special needs populations. 9 Goal Name Economic Development/Income Maximization Goal Description CDBG allocations will be made to the Valley CDC's Small Business Assistance Program and Community Actions Youth Employment Readiness Program. 10 Goal Name Housing Support Services Goal Description CDBG funding will be allocated to the SRO Outreach Project ($10,000) and the Community Preservation Committee will allocate an annual amount of $65,000 to the Community Housing Support Services Project to support people whose housing is at risk. 11 Goal Name Addressing Basic Needs Goal Description CDBG allocations will be made to the MANNA Soup Kitchen ($3,000), the Northampton Survival Center ($9,000) and the two emergency shelters ($23,000), as well as to Highland Valley Elder Services ($4,000), to address shelter and food priorities for households with low and moderate incomes. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 174 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 12 Goal Name Elimination of Slums and Blight Goal Description The farmhouse on Burts Pit Road on a parcel deeded to the Northampton Housing Authority through the disposition of State Hospital property will be demolished to make way for future affordable housing development. The project was designed and permitted to accommodate 10 clients of the Department of Developmental Services, but no State funding has been allocated to date. 13 Goal Name Improvement of Public Facilities Goal Description $30,000 of CDBG funds will be allocated to purchase playground equipment to be installed at the Jackson Street School. The equipment purchased will be suitable for use by children with physical disabilities. The Department of Public Works will utilize $20,000 to install audio signalization at two crosswalks, one entering the downtown and one adjacent to the Senior Center, to aid people with visual impairments. 14 Goal Name Improvement of Public Infrastructure Goal Description $45,000 of CDBG funds has been allocated to construct a sidewalk at the River Run Condominium complex to safely connect residents to nearby services. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 175 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Projects AP-35 Projects – 91.220(d) Introduction In 2015-2016, the City of Northampton will receive Community Block Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the amount of $602,342. Funds from the previous program year will also be made available should they not be expended. The Annual Action Plan describes the activities that will address priorities identified from in the City's 5- Year Consolidated Plan and how those funds will be spent from July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016. Projects # Project Name 1 Planning and Administration 2 Puentes: Bridges for Latinos 3 Career and Education Support for Newcomers 4 Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program 5 Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program 6 Youth Employment Readiness Initiative 7 Homelessness Prevention Project 8 Northampton Elder Nutrition Program 9 Pathways to Success 10 Manna Soup Kitchen 11 Interfaith Winter Shelter 12 Grove Street Inn Homeless Shelter for Individuals 13 Northampton Survival Center Food Pantry 14 Small Business Technical Assistance Program 15 Vernon Street School Accessibility Project 16 Jackson Street Playground 17 Signalized Crosswalks for Visually Impaired 18 River Run Condominium Sidewalk 19 Alliance for Sober Living Roof Reconstruction 20 Cooke Avenue Limited Development Affordable Housing/Open Space 21 Housing Rehabilitation Program 22 Burts Pit Road Farmhouse Demolition 23 129 Pleasant Street Acquisition/ Northampton Lodging SRO 24 256 Pleasant Street Acquisition 25 Homeownership Center Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 176 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Table 59 – Project Information Describe the reasons for allocation priorities and any obstacles to addressing underserved needs With a high need for an increased supply of deeply subsidized affordable housing, preservation and improvement of existing units, services to address basic needs and creation of jobs that pay a living wage, it is difficult to prioritize. The City’s CDBG entitlement amount has decreased over 30% the past few years. Thankfully, the Community Preservation Act funds have been able to contribute to the housing production and housing support services goals as the CDBG allotment started its decline. Being finished with the CDBG obligation to the debt service on the Senior Center will open the door to some new projects and already has, as evidenced by the plan to reinstitute a housing rehab program. The public services grantees are always struggling with finding enough funding to implement their programs. The Ad Hoc Public Services Review Committee has traditionally prioritized those projects that focus on addressing the basic needs of food, shelter and access to health care to protect the safety net. The primary obstacle to meeting the underserved needs is the lack of adequate resources. The commitment and collaboration is exemplary; it is the dollars that fall short. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 177 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-38 Project Summary Project Summary Information Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 178 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 1 Project Name Planning and Administration Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Homelessness Prevention Support for Emergency Shelter System Rental Housing for Families Rental Housing for Individuals Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Housing Rehabilitation Affordable Homeownership for Families Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Economic Development/Income Maximization Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Elimination of Slums and Blight Improvement of Public Facilities Improvement of Public Infrastructure Needs Addressed Homelessness Prevention Support for Emergency Shelter Rental Housing for Individuals Rental Housing for Families Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Stock Housing Rehabilitation Resources Affordable Homeownership for Families Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Economic Development Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Elimination of Slums and Blight Public Facilities Public Infrastructure Funding CDBG: $120,648 Description Funds will be used for housing, community and economic development planning activities and administration of the CDBG program. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 5,000 low and moderate income families. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 179 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Location Description Citywide, except project specific locations for public facilities and infrastructure projects. Planned Activities As listed in the projects section. 2 Project Name Puentes: Bridges for Latinos Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Economic Development/Income Maximization Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Homelessness Prevention Economic Development Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $12,727 Description Casa Latina will provide outreach, support and information and referral services to low/mod Latino residents so they can gain access to services such as: health, housing, language and literacy education and employment. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 250 Latino residents Location Description 140 Pine Street, Florence Planned Activities Information and referrals, translating, advocacy, outreach and intensive case management to Latinos and Spanish speaking persons. 3 Project Name Career and Education Support for Newcomers Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Economic Development/Income Maximization Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Economic Development Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $8,000 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 180 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description The Center for New Americans will provide technology instruction, education and career advising; ESOL classes; referrals to support services and "Access to Pathways" career classes for immigrants. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 50 low and moderate income immigrants Location Description James House Community Learning Center, 42 Gothic Street, Northampton Planned Activities ESOL classes, technology instruction (both integrated into the English class and supported Distance Learning), education and career advising and citizenship and immigration services 4 Project Name Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $4,000 Description The Center for Human Development (CHD) Big Brothers Big Sisters will create and support mentoring relationships for low to moderate income Northampton children from families with multiple risk factors. Children are referred by other agencies or school personnel. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 35 low and moderate income at-risk youth Location Description Citywide Planned Activities Matching of youth and mentors who will meet once a week for at least a year; a site based model Kids to Campus program at Smith College will match kids with college students meeting on the campus. 5 Project Name Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 181 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Goals Supported Homelessness Prevention Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Homelessness Prevention Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description The Center for Human Development (CHD) will provide case management and support services to prevent homelessness and hunger for residents living in SRO units in Northampton and Florence. A food pantry is available three days per week: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 100 SRO residents Location Description Go West, 1-3 North Main St., Florence The Maples, 16 North Maple St., Florence Cottage Kitchen, 17 North Maple St., Florence Earle Street Apartments, 180-182 Earle St., Northampton King Street SRO, 96-98 King St., Northampton The Lorraine, 96 Pleasant St., Northampton Northampton Lodging, 129 Pleasant St., Northampton Planned Activities coffee hours, transportation, landlord mediation, food pantry, advocacy, case management and clinical support 6 Project Name Youth Employment Readiness Initiative Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Economic Development/Income Maximization Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Economic Development Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $5,500 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 182 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description Community Action will provide individual career development assistance, employment readiness training and educational workshops focused on high growth sectors of the economy for youth living in poverty identified through the Northampton High School guidance counseling office. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 60 Northampton youth Location Description Citywide Planned Activities Individual assessments with a Workforce Development Specialist to assess skills, occupational or educational goals and identify training or education to achieve the goals; participation in a year-long job readiness training program in the Alternative Learning Program at the Northampton High School; trips to businesses and colleges; instruction on interviewing, resume writing, workplace communication and financial literacy. 7 Project Name Homelessness Prevention Project Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Homelessness Prevention Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Homelessness Prevention Housing Support Services Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $5,500 Description Community Legal Aid will provide free legal services for tenants with rent subsidies, including the Section 8 program, who are at risk of being evicted and/or terminated from the program. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 20 low income residents Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 183 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Location Description 20 Hampton Ave., Northampton Planned Activities Free legal services to ensure long-term housing safety and stability: landlord mediation, court respresentation, information about the legal process so clients may advocate for themselves, collaboration with agencies who provide supportive services, linkages with mainstream resources. 8 Project Name Northampton Elder Nutrition Program Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $4,000 Description Highland Valley will deliver hot meals to low and moderate income home-bound elders 5 days per week (Monday-Friday). Meals are also provided at the Walter Salvo House, an elderly housing complex that serves as a congregate site. Meals are delivered to elders unable to prepare a nutritious, hot meal due to physical, emotional or cognitive factors, have no one to prepare a meal on a regular basis and are unable to attend a congregate meal site Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 82 home delivered meals to low and moderate income elders; 66 residents will attend the congregate meal site Location Description City wide Congregate site: Walter Salvo House, 81 Conz St., Northampton Planned Activities Delivery of meals to home-bound elders to facilitate their ability to continue to live independently in a healthy manner. 9 Project Name Pathways to Success Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Economic Development/Income Maximization Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Economic Development Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $8,000 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 184 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description The Literacy Project will provide instruction for the HiSET (high school equivalency test in Mass); intensive individualized and group education to adults with low and moderate incomes and youth age 16 and over to develop college and career readiness. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 40 low and moderate income residents Location Description James House Community Learning Center, 42 Gothic St., Northampton Planned Activities HiSET instruction and career advising. This project addresses the needs of the whole student and identifies barriers to educational achievement such as language challenges, child care needs, basic food and shelter. 10 Project Name Manna Soup Kitchen Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Homelessness Prevention Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Homelessness Prevention Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $3,000 Description The MANNA Soup Kitchen will provide free meals 3 days per week to homeless and residents with low and moderate incomes. Special Thanksgiving and Christmas meals also provided. This stems isolation in SRO's and public housing units and addresses food insecurity issues, relieving pressure on housing cost burdens. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 450 homeless and/or low and moderate income residents Location Description 48 Elm St., Northampton 297 Main St., Northampton Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 185 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Planned Activities Free meals every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday with a special meal on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day 11 Project Name Interfaith Winter Shelter Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Support for Emergency Shelter System Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Support for Emergency Shelter Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $11,000 Description Service Net, in collaboration with the Friends of Hampshire County Homeless and the City will provide a 24-bed overnight shelter from November-April. Two meals a day will also be provided. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 175 homeless individuals Location Description 43 Center St., Northampton Planned Activities Food and overnight emergency shelter beds provided from November- April; case management is provided through the Resource Center, co- located at 43 Center Street. 12 Project Name Grove Street Inn Homeless Shelter for Individuals Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Support for Emergency Shelter System Needs Addressed Support for Emergency Shelter Funding CDBG: $13,000 Description 22-bed transitional and emergency shelter for homeless individuals year round. The shelter is open from 5 p.m.-9 a.m. Monday-Friday and 24 hours per day on Saturday and Sunday. Guests may stay up to 90 days. Case management is conducted at the Resource Center. Target Date 6/30/2016 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 186 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 125 homeless individuals Location Description Grove Street Inn, 91 Grove St., Northampton Planned Activities 4 transitional beds and 20 emergency shelter beds, open year round, closed during the weekdays. 13 Project Name Northampton Survival Center Food Pantry Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Addressing Basic Needs Needs Addressed Addressing Basic Needs Funding CDBG: $9,000 Description The Northampton Survival Center will provide free nutritionally- balanced monthly food packages customized to individual dietary needs. Clients will also have weekly access to fresh bread and produce, much of it locally grown Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 2,200 residents Location Description Northampton Survival Center, 265 Prospect St., Northampton Planned Activities provision of monthly food packages 14 Project Name Small Business Technical Assistance Program Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Economic Development/Income Maximization Needs Addressed Economic Development Funding CDBG: $10,000 Description The Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC) will provide one-on-one technical assistance and counseling to 25 income eligible residents who wish to start their own business and assistance to businesses with five or fewer employees in creating and/or retaining jobs to grow their businesses. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 187 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 25 entrepreneurs and businesses Location Description 30 Market Street, Northampton Planned Activities Technical assistance including, but not limited to, assistance in development of financial projections, marketing, identification of marketing opportunities, workshops, and counseling 15 Project Name Vernon Street School Accessibility Project Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Improvement of Public Facilities Needs Addressed Public Facilities Funding : Description Community Action runs several programs for low and moderate income youth out of this City-owned building. Funds, if they become available during the program year, will be used for a handicap accessibility ramp and first floor ADA required bathroom renovations. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 50 youth Location Description 56 Vernon Street, Northampton Planned Activities Construction of an accessibility ramp and ADA renovations to first floor bathrooms. 16 Project Name Jackson Street Playground Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Improvement of Public Facilities Needs Addressed Public Facilities Funding CDBG: $30,000 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 188 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description Purchase of handicap accessible playground equipment on an elementary school site, utilized by the school students and adjacent public and subsidized housing complex residents. Prior year funds will be used for this project. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 350 youth Location Description Jackson Street School, 120 Jackson Street, Northampton Planned Activities Purchase of handicap accessible playground equipment. 17 Project Name Signalized Crosswalks for Visually Impaired Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Improvement of Public Infrastructure Needs Addressed Public Infrastructure Funding CDBG: $20,000 Description The Department of Public Works (DPW), in collaboration with the Senior Services Department, and the Committee on Disabilities have identified two intersections needing to be improved with signalized crosswalks for visually impaired individuals. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 100 Location Description Intersection at Conz Street and Old South Streets and intersection of Old South Street and New South Street. Planned Activities Installation of signalized crosswalks to assist the visually impaired. 18 Project Name River Run Condominium Sidewalk Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Improvement of Public Infrastructure Needs Addressed Public Infrastructure Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 189 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Funding CDBG: $45,000 Description Sidewalk construction to facilitate safe pedestrian access for residents of an income eligible area (8216.01)to nearby services. Approximately 1,000 linear feet will be constructed. This is part of a larger project related to a Mass Highway project addressing intersection and pedestrian safety at King Street and Damon Road. Prior year funds will be used for this project. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 216 households Location Description 80 Damon Road, Northampton Planned Activities Construction of sidewalk to aid pedestrian safety. 19 Project Name Alliance for Sober Living Roof Reconstruction Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Housing Rehabilitation Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Needs Addressed Housing Rehabilitation Resources Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Funding CDBG: $45,000 Description Funds, if they become available during the program year, will be used for the reconstruction of the roof at the Alliance for Sober Living, transitional housing for 8 people with low and moderate incomes in recovery from alcohol and other substance abuse. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 8. Location Description 18 Summer Street, Northampton Planned Activities Reconstruction of roof. Project Name Cooke Avenue Limited Development Affordable Housing/Open Space Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 190 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 20 Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Affordable Homeownership for Families Needs Addressed Affordable Homeownership for Families Funding CDBG: $40,000 Description Funding for affordable housing on a 3-acre parcel abutting Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area (property formerly the Moose Lodge of Northampton) and located near the Big Y shopping plaza. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities If the City purchases the property it will issue a Request for Proposals. Usually Habitat for Humanity is the housing provider that can accomplish smaller projects, such as a duplex that might be accommodated on this site. 2 families would benefit. Location Description 196 Cooke Avenue, Northampton Planned Activities Affordable housing opportunity created in conjunction with City open space acquisition goals. 21 Project Name Housing Rehabilitation Program Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Housing Rehabilitation Needs Addressed Housing Rehabilitation Resources Funding CDBG: $160,000 Description A new program this year with a vendor yet to be selected through a RFP process. The rehabilitation program will assist low and moderate- income households with repairs addressing housing quality standards and sanitary code violations. Repairs shall focus on major systems such as heating, plumbing, electrical, roof and structural issues as well as other repairs that address code violations. Target Date 6/30/2015 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 4-6 owner occupant households. Location Description City wide Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 191 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Planned Activities Repairs to heating, plumbing, electrical, roof and structural issues as well as other repairs that address code violations. Lead paint abatement will be given high priority if costs allow. 22 Project Name Burts Pit Road Farmhouse Demolition Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Elimination of Slums and Blight Needs Addressed Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Elimination of Slums and Blight Funding CDBG: $45,000 Description The Northampton Housing Authority will coordinate the demolition of a vacant and deteriorating residential structure and detached garage on Burts Pit Road in Florence. The parcel is associated with the former State Hospital and has been abandoned for more than 20 years. Plans are to develop the parcel for affordable housing for special needs populations. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities The project as currently proposed is to house 10 clients of the Department of Developmental Services. Location Description 278 Burts Pit Road, Florence Planned Activities Demolition of vacant residential structure and detached garage at Burts Pit Road location to clear site for future affordable housing development. 23 Project Name 129 Pleasant Street Acquisition/ Northampton Lodging SRO Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Rental Housing for Families Rental Housing for Individuals Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Needs Addressed Rental Housing for Individuals Rental Housing for Families Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Funding CDBG: $150,000 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 192 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Description CDBG Loan for the acquisition of an existing 58 single room occupancy property by HAPHousing (previously Northampton Lodging). The existing building will be demolished; tenants will be re-located and moved back after new construction of 78 units. Prior year funds will be used for acquisition. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 48 affordable units and 24 market rate units all studio and one bedroom apartments. Location Description 129 Pleasant Street, Northampton Planned Activities Acquisition of property. 24 Project Name 256 Pleasant Street Acquisition Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Rental Housing for Families Rental Housing for Individuals Housing for At-Risk and Special Needs Populations Needs Addressed Rental Housing for Individuals Rental Housing for Families Housing for At - Risk & Special Needs Populations Funding CDBG: $150,000 Description CDBG Loan for acquisition of a 1.25 acre parcel by the Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC). Redevelopment of the site, formerly the Northampton Lumber Yard, will be mixed use with 5,300 square feet of commercial space on the first floor and 55 units of affordable housing. Prior year funds will be used for acquisition of the property. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 55 units of affordable housing; 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms Location Description 256 Pleasant Street, Northampton Planned Activities Acquisition of property Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 193 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) 25 Project Name Homeownership Center Target Area No geographic Priorities Designated Goals Supported Affordable Homeownership for Families Housing Support Services Needs Addressed Affordable Homeownership for Families Housing Support Services Funding CDBG: $26,000 Description The Valley Community Development Corporation (CDC) will provide homebuyer assistance, workshops and advocacy to Northampton renters with low and moderate incomes seeking to purchase a home and households facing foreclosure. Referrals to HOME and other assisted units, housing loan/grant programs and state subsidized mortgages, as well as, three grants for down payment/closing costs for three eligible first time homebuyers will be provided. Funding also includes program administration costs. Target Date 6/30/2016 Estimate the number and type of families that will benefit from the proposed activities 3 first time homebuyer grants; 60 residents provided technical assistance. Location Description 30 Market Street, Northampton Planned Activities 3 first time homebuyer grants, homebuyer assistance to first time homebuyers and homeowners facing foreclosure, referrals to HOME and other funding sources, and program administration costs. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 194 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-50 Geographic Distribution – 91.220(f) Description of the geographic areas of the entitlement (including areas of low-income and minority concentration) where assistance will be directed Funds were allocated to priorities as identified from citizen participation during the annual and five year planning process. Census tracts with more than 20% minority population are defined as areas of minority concentration. Using OneCPD maps, very little data relative to concentrations showed up using the 25% threshold for areas of concentration. Moving to a 20% threshold revealed more information at the block group level. Housing rehabilitation dollars will be targetted to those areas as will outreach when new housing units become available. Geographic Distribution Target Area Percentage of Funds Table 60 - Geographic Distribution Rationale for the priorities for allocating investments geographically Public services are delivered City-wide. The two crosswalk signals slated to improve safety for the visually impaired were selected by the Department of Public Works in conjunction with the City's Committee on Disabilities. The Housing Partnership and Office of Planning and Sustainability sponsored three forums for private and non-profit housing developers over the last two years to stimulate housing development in the downtown. There is also a neighborhood and city-wide citizen participation process to revitalize the Pleasant Street corridor, a primary gateway into the downtown. The fact that both proposed mixed use affordable housing projects which will include vibrant first floor commercial spaces and are located on Pleasant Street in that corridor, is a major contribution to that revitalization strategy. A visual site survey will be conducted by the vendor selected to administer the housing rehabilitation program to determine where outreach should occur. Discussion Block group level data will be further scrutinized to determine feasibility for defining target areas and locations for housing rehabilitation and public infrastructure projects. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 195 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Affordable Housing AP-55 Affordable Housing – 91.220(g) Introduction One Year Goals for the Number of Households to be Supported Homeless 454 Non-Homeless 3,115 Special-Needs 105 Total 3,674 Table 61 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Requirement One Year Goals for the Number of Households Supported Through Rental Assistance 1,519 The Production of New Units 0 Rehab of Existing Units 4 Acquisition of Existing Units 58 Total 1,581 Table 62 - One Year Goals for Affordable Housing by Support Type Discussion It is virtually impossible to get unduplicated counts to identify exact numbers to be served. For example, those counted as participating in a MANNA soup kitchen meal could be living at an emergency shelter; one of the families working with Casa Latina could be attending classes at the Center for New Americans, and knowing how many people will benefit from an improved public facility, is difficult to ascertain. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 196 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-60 Public Housing – 91.220(h) Introduction Actions planned during the next year to address the needs to public housing The following projects will be undertaken over the next year, or several as funding allows: McDonald House; new roof, new unit thermostats, seal coating of the parking lot, completion of a masonry analysis and an elevator assessment. Florence Heights; screen door replacement, concrete and black top repair, kitchen countertop and cabinet replacement at unit turnover, Hampshire Heights; correction of drainage issues, domestic hot water tank replacement, roadway and window replacement, Cahill Apts.; new fire alarm system, underground wiring, parking lot repaving, roadway widening, community hall improvements, Salvo House; parking lot repaving, painting building corridors, caulking of exterior concrete panels, window and slider door replacement. State Street; boiler replacement. Tobin Manor; conversion of a congregate housing unit into two apartments, new shingle roof. Grace House; additional insulation for energy efficiency and resident comfort. Actions to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership The Northampton Housing Authority is committed to working collaboratively with the newly hired Community Housing Supportive Services Coordinator. The goals of this program are housing stabilization and increased life skills for residents of community housing. Tenant associations may be formed in the two family developments to increase participation in governance. Progress will be made on development of the Laurel Street parcel which is proposed for homeownership opportunities for families currently in public housing. If the PHA is designated as troubled, describe the manner in which financial assistance will be provided or other assistance The Northampton Housing Authority is not designated as troubled. Discussion The Northampton Housing Authority does an excellent job maintaining its properties. With the hiring of a new Executive Director, it is hoped progress will be made moving the development of the Laurel Street parcel and Burts Pit Road parcel forward. Of the four parcels deeded to the NHA through the disposition of the State Hospital property, the West Street parcel has been developed in partnership with HAPHousing for family housing, some formerly homeless. The Grove Street parcel was developed in partnership with the Department of Mental Health into 6 units for younger clients with mental illness. If the Laurel Street parcel is developed for affordable homeownership opportunities and the Burts Pit Road site for clients of the Department of Developmental Disabilities, the Housing Authority will have Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 197 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) contributed housing options for a variety of population segments, very successfully. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 198 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-65 Homeless and Other Special Needs Activities – 91.220(i) Introduction Unsheltered homeless are identified by the PATH Program Street Outreach Worker. The PATH worker engages with individuals, links them with resources, does individual therapy and runs groups. Unsheltered and sheltered individuals are also case managed at the Hampshire County Resource Center where benefits are secured, health care is administered and housing search is undertaken. Health Care for the Homeless nurses and a doctor as well as a Benefits Analyst are on site. The Resource Center functions as the central intake system. Clients are referred to shelter bed openings at Soldier On, the Inter-Faith Shelter, the Grove Street Inn or other shelters in the region depending on vacancies. A rental assistance fund was created with CPC funds through ServiceNet,Inc. called the Access to Housing Initiative. Funds cover first and last month rents and security deposits for those finding apartments in Northampton. Eliot and ServiceNet staff, as well as others (SMOC, DMH, SRO, MHA), meet regularly through regional REACH meetings to identify housing placements for chronically homeless individuals. It is a coordinated case management model that has been extremely successful over the past several years. Dial Self addresses housing and support service needs for youth, primarily in Franklin County. The Center for Human Development is the agency operating in Hampshire County providing services to homeless families and their children. CHD has a program for women in recovery and their children in Northampton which is closed referral from the Department of Public Health, but no emergency shelter beds. Safe Passage does operate an emergency shelter for women and their children experiencing domestic violence. Veterans’ needs are addressed by Soldier On, VASH staff at the VA and the City’s Veteran’s Agent. Describe the jurisdictions one-year goals and actions for reducing and ending homelessness including Reaching out to homeless persons (especially unsheltered persons) and assessing their individual needs Eliot CHS Homeless services will continue to do clinical street outreach to the unsheltered in Northampton. The Outreach Clinician will do engagement and assessment utilizing the V1SPDAT intake form. Referrals will be made to appropriate service systems and other case managers. PATH workers will participate in REACH meetings where outreach, shelter and permanent supportive housing providers coordinate case management for the homeless, particularly chronically homeless. The regional network Coordinator, COC and HMIS administrators will monitor housing placements to insure new units are targeted to those with the highest V1SPDAT rankings. According to the PIT data, the number unsheltered persons in the CoC decreased for the third year in a row. Addressing the emergency shelter and transitional housing needs of homeless persons The City will continue to provide CDBG funding to the two generic shelters, the Inter-Faith Winter Shelter for Homeless individuals and the Grove Street Inn. Collaborative and advocacy support will be Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 199 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) provided to Safe Passage for the operation of their emergency shelter for domestic violence victims and to Soldier On, for their emergency shelter beds serving Veterans. In the CoC overall, there were 234 emergency shelter beds in 2014 and 269 in 2015, a 15% increase due to the addition of overflow beds in Berkshire County. There were 380 transitional housing beds in 2014 and 348 in 2015, due to the conversion of some TH beds to permanent supportive housing beds (an 8% reduction). There were 496 permanent supportive housing beds in 2014 and 602 in 2015. 11 Rapid Re- housing beds were created in 2015 through the Veterans SSVF program. 50% of homeless assistance beds in the CoC are allocated to housing rather than shelter. (see Appendix G for additional Point In Time summary information. The data is from 2014, as DHCD has not yet issued hotel/motel numbers so complete summaries for 2015 are as yet still unavailable). There is no plan to increase the emergency shelter beds in Northampton in the next year. Although the transitional housing model is being phased out in favor of PSH units in accordance with HUD, there are providers who value the TH housing type. Safe Passage has articulated the need for a transitional facility for domestic violence victims and may be responding to an RFP issued by Friends of Hampshire County Homeless Individuals for funding such a program. The development of the new units at the VA Campus by Soldier On for women Veterans and their children, will be a transitional housing model (16 units). Helping homeless persons (especially chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans and their families, and unaccompanied youth) make the transition to permanent housing and independent living, including shortening the period of time that individuals and families experience homelessness, facilitating access for homeless individuals and families to affordable housing units, and preventing individuals and families who were recently homeless from becoming homeless again Chronically homeless individuals will continue to be served by the Eliot Street Outreach Clinician PATH Program, the Hampshire County Resource Center, the ServiceNet Shelter and Housing Program and other local housing and homeless service providers. Projects that produce additional housing units to facilitate housing placement will continue to be pursued. (Friend of the Homeless House #3, the Valley CDC Lumberyard Project, HAP Housing’s replacement of the Northampton Lodging SRO, possible development of the Cooke Avenue Lot, possible development of the Oak Street city owner parcel, possible development of a parcel on Rte. 5 near Easthampton). Housing support services will increase as the new Community Housing Support Services Coordinator begins work and joins the team with the SRO Outreach Coordinator. Veterans and their families will be served by Soldier On and Dial Self will assist unaccompanied youth. Homeless families will be served by the Center for Human Development through scattered site and congregate settings. A variety of agencies are providing case management services to families in hotels/motels. ServiceNet's Access to Housing Initiative will utilize the second portion of the $10,000 allotment from the CPC to pay first, last and security deposits for homeless seeking apartments in Northampton. The City will continue to support and advocate for housing stabilization supportive Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 200 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) services in existing and new housing to prevent recidivism back into homelessness. Helping low-income individuals and families avoid becoming homeless, especially extremely low-income individuals and families and those who are: being discharged from publicly funded institutions and systems of care (such as health care facilities, mental health facilities, foster care and other youth facilities, and corrections programs and institutions); or, receiving assistance from public or private agencies that address housing, health, social services, employment, education, or youth needs The City will support homeless prevention activities with CDBG funding for Community Legal Aid. The CPC funded Community Housing Support Services Project is also focused on homelessness prevention. The CoC will monitor discharges from public institutions. The Cooley Dickinson Hospital Emergency Room and Psychiatric Unit personnel have working relationships with area shelter providers. Soldier On will pick up and do service assessments for any Veteran leaving the Hampshire County House of Corrections without housing in place. The Western Mass Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness also monitors discharge activity from the Departments of Mental Health and Developmental Services. The School McKinney Coordinators and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education are very involved in the regional network’s Committee on Unaccompanied Youth. Hopefully the Dial Self Federal Homeless and Runaway Youth renewal application will bring additional resources to Northampton for street outreach activities. The Hampshire County House of Corrections will continue to conduct their monthly round table sessions to strategize with housing and service providers to develop resources and housing placements for inmates about to be released, to avoid discharges into homelessness. Discussion Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 201 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-75 Barriers to affordable housing – 91.220(j) Introduction: Actions it planned to remove or ameliorate the negative effects of public policies that serve as barriers to affordable housing such as land use controls, tax policies affecting land, zoning ordinances, building codes, fees and charges, growth limitations, and policies affecting the return on residential investment The Zoning Sub-Committee of the Northampton Housing Partnership will work with the City's Office of Planning and Sustainability to examine zoning ordinance regulations that may impede the creation or preservation of affordable housing units. Within this first year, an analysis of Inclusionary Zoning as a possible tool will have been made and concluded. The Town of Amherst has created an IZ bylaw that will be researched. Amherst is also pursuing possibe tax abatements for property owners that create deed restricted affordable units. The Housing Partnership will be attentive to that process. Also, dimensional site requirements relative to special permit and site plan processes for the creation of multiple units on a lot are being examined. Northampton already waives fees for affordable housing permitting, has no growth limitations or moratoriums and welcomes Chapter 40B Comprehensive Permitting projects. Discussion: An update of the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing will be undertaken in 2015-16 if funding is available. At a minimum, the Housing Partnership which functions as the City's Fair Housing Committee will continue to implement recommendations made in the most recent AI update. The City is participating in the Pioneer Valley Regional Planning Commission's Fair Housing Committee to implement the fair housing goals articulated in the Sustainable Knowledge Corridor Regional Housing Plan. In order to achieve opportunity and diversity in all communities, a regional approach is needed to promote mobility from the seriously concentrated areas of poverty in Hampden county neighborhoods to other locales. See Appendix H for a list of recommendations from the most recent Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 202 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) AP-85 Other Actions – 91.220(k) Introduction: Actions planned to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs The most important role the City can play is to facilitate communication and collaboration in the face of diminishing resources. With continued CDBG cuts and other State and Federal program funding reductions, it behooves the service delivery systems to operate as effectively and efficiently as possible. Insuring services are not duplicated or wasted is imperative. Specifically, the City will support the staff and organizations carrying out public social services programming that addresses basic needs for the underserved by allocating CDBG funds, providing technical assistance and conducting one on one monitoring sessions that are highly interactive. City support for and participation in the Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness, the Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness, the Three County Rural CoC, the Next Step Collaborative, the Housing Partnership and the committees of the regional network, will facilitate coordinated actions to best meet the needs of the underserved. It is also imperative that Casa Latina, the grass roots organization serving the Latino community in Hampshire County, is viable and strong. With the numbers of Hispanic households increasing and many with language challenges, outreach, advocacy and connection to resources will be more critical to prevent people from slipping outside of the safety net. Actions planned to foster and maintain affordable housing CDBG staff and financial resources will be allocated to the two large affordable housing projects planned for Pleasant Street. Coordination of permitting, conducting environmental reviews and contracting as well as identification of support services will be completed in 2015. Demolition activity will ready the Burts Pit Road site for new development. Plans will progress for new development at the Laurel Street site, both owned by the Northampton Housing Authority. Efforts will continue to prevent any additional loss of units from the subsidized housing inventory. With the creation of 44 new units of limited equity cooperative ownership units for older male Veterans at the VA Campus through Soldier On, in addition to 43 (of 83) new units being affordable at the Christopher Heights Assisted Living Development at Village Hill (former State hospital site) both to be ready for occupancy this fall, 87 new units of affordable housing will be added to the inventory. Soldier On will add 16 additional transitional housing units for women Veterans and their children in 2016 and the 55 units at Valley CDC’s Lumberyard project and the 48 affordable units at 129 Pleasant Street through HAP Housing, will add an additional 103 permanently affordable rental units for individuals and Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 203 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) families, when their State funding is secured (2016-17). Four homeownership units will be improved through the creation of a Housing Rehabilitation Program that will begin operation in 2015 after a vendor is selected through an RFP process. If Habitat for Humanity gets involved with either the Oak Street or Cooke Avenue or Route 9 parcels, new construction duplex units could be created in the coming years. The Housing Partnership will continue to meet monthly to strategize about preservation issues, as well as identifying opportunities for new unit production. Outreach will continue with the two property owners of expiring use developments next to expire (Hathaway Farms and Leeds Village apartments). Actions planned to reduce lead-based paint hazards The Housing Partnership will provide information about lead paint abatement resources via an annual census letter sent to all multi-family property owners in January of 2016. The State Get the Lead Out Program will hopefully have funds at that time. City staff will work with the Board of Health to determine the current number of units that have abatement certification. With the development of the Housing Rehabilitation Program, targeted surveys will be conducted to identify a universe of landlords interested in abatement funds. With the age of the housing stock, it is conceivable that each residential rehab project undertaken may include remedying lead paint to some degree. With fixed budgets for rehab, decisions will need to be made when evaluating abatement activity versus code violation compliance. A goal of the program would be for units participating in the program to be able to achieve full compliance for deleading. Even if only a few units a year can accomplish this, cumulatively over time it will make a difference. Actions planned to reduce the number of poverty-level families According to the American Community Survey 2013 data, 7.8% of all families and 15.2 % of the total population had incomes below the poverty level. The City will work to insure the following services are available through the existing delivery system, identify gaps and fill them where possible and specifically provide CDBG support to the MANNA soup kitchen, the SRO food pantry, the Northampton Survival Center to address food insecurity and free up income for housing costs: Actions planned to develop institutional structure Between the Next Step Collaborative, Valley CDC’s Homeless Services Provider quarterly sessions and the Northampton Housing Partnership meetings, the City gains a holistic sense of what is happening in Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 204 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) the community at the local level. Next Step meetings are attended by providers working with the unsheltered individual homeless, sheltered homeless individuals, Veterans, people with HIV/AIDS and people at risk of homelessness in the SRO’s. Housing Partnership members are composed of legal aid attorneys doing eviction prevention work, local clergy, a Community Reinvestment Act Banking compliance officer, a realtor, affordable housing developers, an architect and two private landlords. Valley CDC meetings are attended by DMH case managers, housing search workers, housing stabilization staff and PATH workers who identify tenants whose housing is at risk and they all work together to stabilize those tenants. With the Network and CoC meetings, the City is regularly informed about regional activity relative to individual and family homelessness, housing sex offenders and unaccompanied youth and Veterans. The only gap identified in the existing institutional structure is a youth component. The PATH Street Outreach worker does not locate unsheltered youth often, but their target population is adults. Dial Self is the only agency in the area that provides housing and support services for youth, but they are based in Franklin County. Their new renewal application to HUD includes a street outreach component for Hampshire County. The award will be known later this spring. Otherwise, welcoming a new SRO Outreach Coordinator and the new Community Housing Support Services Coordinator are exciting additions to our delivery system. Actions planned to enhance coordination between public and private housing and social service agencies The arrival of a new Housing Authority Executive Director presents an opportunity for enhanced coordination between the City and social service providers. In the past year, the Governors appointee and the Mayors appointee to the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners have been affordable housing advocates active in a variety of other regional housing efforts. With those appointments, a new Director and the Community Housing Support Services Coordinator, significant new energies will be brought to the public housing residents relative to increasing life skills, housing stabilization and empowerment. It is also hoped that the two remaining parcels they own that have languished over the past several years will move forward in their development and provide needed housing opportunities in the community. The other existing venues ( as described above) will continue to be utilized for maximizing coordination and collaboration to achieve positive outcomes despite insufficient State and Federal resources. Discussion: Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 205 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Program Specific Requirements AP-90 Program Specific Requirements – 91.220(l)(1,2,4) Introduction: Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) Reference 24 CFR 91.220(l)(1) Projects planned with all CDBG funds expected to be available during the year are identified in the Projects Table. The following identifies program income that is available for use that is included in projects to be carried out. 1. The total amount of program income that will have been received before the start of the next program year and that has not yet been reprogrammed 0 2. The amount of proceeds from section 108 loan guarantees that will be used during the year to address the priority needs and specific objectives identified in the grantee's strategic plan. 0 3. The amount of surplus funds from urban renewal settlements 0 4. The amount of any grant funds returned to the line of credit for which the planned use has not been included in a prior statement or plan 0 5. The amount of income from float-funded activities 0 Total Program Income: 0 Other CDBG Requirements 1. The amount of urgent need activities 0 2. The estimated percentage of CDBG funds that will be used for activities that benefit persons of low and moderate income.Overall Benefit - A consecutive period of one, two or three years may be used to determine that a minimum overall benefit of 70% of CDBG funds is used to benefit persons of low and moderate income. Specify the years covered that include this Annual Action Plan. 90.00% Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 206 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Discussion: Program years 2013, 2014, 2015 Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 207 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) Appendix - Alternate/Local Data Sources 1 Data Source Name ACS Data for Northampton City, MA 2007-2011 List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. American Community Survey Data 2007-2011 Provide a brief summary of the data set. Block grant level data indicates more than census tract level data. What was the purpose for developing this data set? The pre-populated data for total households is incorrect. The universe is only 11,583 households but a tally of the numbers provided equals 26,855. How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? The new numbers being inserted reflect household breakdowns according to income ranges, citywide. What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? 2007-2011. What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? Complete. 2 Data Source Name Data from Northampton Housing Authority. List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. Northampton Housing Authority. Michael Owens, Assistant Director. Provide a brief summary of the data set. Actual counts from the Housing Authority. What was the purpose for developing this data set? We could tell the prepopulated numbers from PIC were incorrect. How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? The information is from the Northampton Housing Authority, about their units and their activities. Some of the Section 8 and VASH certificates they administer are in other communities, but all the public housing is in Northampton. Consolidated Plan NORTHAMPTON 208 OMB Control No: 2506-0117 (exp. 07/31/2015) What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? The unit counts were at a point in time, but their inventory does not change much. March of 2015. The project plans are incorporated into their 5 year Plan which covers 2015-2019. What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? Complete. 3 Data Source Name Housing Needs Assessment Strategic Plan 2011 List the name of the organization or individual who originated the data set. Karen Sunnarborg/ Consultant/ Created the Northampton Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan. 2011. All her data sources are cited with each chart. Provide a brief summary of the data set. Data on Housing Affordability. Chart information based on *Nielsen Claritas database 2009 extimate; **extrapolated median income from 80% ami HUD figures for a 2 person household. ***HUD 2009 Income Limits for Springfield SMSA for a household of 2, which is the average household size in Northampton.**** Figures based on interest of 5.5%, 30-year term, annual property tax rate of $11.48 per thousand, insurance costs of $1.25 per $1,000 of combined valuation of dwelling value (value x 0.5), personal property ($100,000 fixed), and personal liability ($100,000 fixed), and private mortgage insurance estimated at 0.3125 of loan amount for 95% financing, estimated monthly condo fees of $250, and rental income of 75% of $900 or $675. What was the purpose for developing this data set? The pre populated numbers from HUD for the Housing Affordability Chart on page 33 are incorrect. There are only 11,853 or 12,604 (depending on where you look) so the total of 32,515 is wrong. How comprehensive is the coverage of this administrative data? Is data collection concentrated in one geographic area or among a certain population? The data collection, citations and analysis in the Housing Plan are comprehensive and meticulous. The information supplied is city-wide, with many State and National comparisons. What time period (provide the year, and optionally month, or month and day) is covered by this data set? Plan contains Census data through 2000 and ACS estimates for 2007-2011. What is the status of the data set (complete, in progress, or planned)? Complete. Housing Partnership has expressed interest in doing another Community Preservation Committee request to get the information updated to 2010 census, but so many categories of information are still unavailable, so it doesn't make sense to do it yet.