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2012-2013 Y29 AAP v13b1 City of Northampton Action Plan Fiscal Year 13 July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013 Program Year 29 Table of Contents SECTION PAGE City of Northampton’s SF 424 Applicant Certifications Action Plan Executive Summary 2 - 7 Objectives/Actions 2 - 3 Allocation Summary 3 Activity Summary 4 - 7 Priority Needs/ Activities  Housing 7 - 13  Public Facilities 13 - 14  Economic Development 14 - 15  Public Services 16 - 17 Evaluation of Past Performance 18 - 19 Citizen Participation 20 - 21 Resources 22 - 27 Activity Narrative Other Program Funds Low/Mod. Expenditure Chart Allocation Priorities Affordable Housing Goals Public Housing Goals Homeless and Special Needs Barriers to Affordable Housing Fair Housing Monitoring Activity Spread Sheet CDBG Project Sheets HUD Table 3B Action Plan Submission Checklist 2 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN July 1, 2012 - June 30, 2013 FY 13 Executive Summary The Annual Action plan is derived from the Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan, the HUD Five Year Consolidated Plan, All Roads Lead Home - the Pioneer Valley 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness, the Northampton Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan and the citizen participation process. The primary goals are:  Support the basic needs of individuals and families with low and moderate household incomes  Create new housing for a range of income levels  Preserve and sustain existing affordable housing  Work to end homelessness  Encourage self-sufficiency and empowerment of people with low incomes  Facilitate economic opportunity to obtain self-sufficiency and financial independence Objective Addressed Action Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing CDBG support for the Inter-Faith Cot Shelter, the Grove Street Inn Assisting persons at risk of homelessness CDBG support for SRO Outreach, Manna Soup Kitchen, First Call for Help, Survival Center, Mass. Fair Housing Center, Community Legal Aid Retaining the affordable housing stock CDBG support for COA Home Repair Program, New South Street Apartments Increasing availability of affordable permanent housing Support for moving Habitat, VCDC and Housing Authority projects forward Providing affordable housing accessible to job opportunities CPA support for New South Street Apts. Improving the safety and livability of neighborhoods CDBG support for the COA Home Repair Program and public infrastructure when funding allows. Eliminating blighting influences and deterioration of properties and facilities CDBG support for Home Repair Program, James House and Fairgrounds projects Increasing access to quality public and private facilities CDBG support for Forbes Library and public housing when funding allows Reducing isolation of income groups Support housing development projects 3 through housing de-concentration when proposed in City Restoring and preserving special properties CDBG support for Fairgrounds redevelopment and James House Learning Center Conserving energy resources CDBG support for James House renovation Creating and retaining jobs CDBG support for Valley CDC Micro- Business Assistance Program Expanding micro businesses CDBG support for Valley CDC Micro- Business Assistance Program Provision of public services concerned with employment CDBG support for Literacy Project, Center for New Americans, James House Learning Center, Valley CDC Business Assistance Program, Grove Street Inn, Casa Latina Availability of mortgage financing using non-discriminatory lending practices CDBG support for Mass. Fair Housing Center & Valley CDC Homeownership Center Access to capital and credit for economic development and asset building CBDG support for Valley CDC Business Assistance Center, Homeownership Center, Literacy Project, Center for New Americans FY13 CDBG Budget Allocations: Public Facilities Senior Center Debt James House Grace House Senior Center Landscaping $ 399,165 319,861 64,659 6,000 8,645 Housing First Time Homebuyer Home Repair New South Street $ 176,000 26,000 20,000 130,000 Slums and Blight Fairgrounds Redevelopment $ 62,029 Economic Development Micro-Business Program 10,000 Public Services 15% Award Carry-Over $ 91,867 88,260 3,607 Administration $ 117,680 Total CDBG Budget $ 856,741 4 CDBG PROGRAM YEAR 29 ACTIVITY SUMMARY On or about July 1, 2012 the City of Northampton will receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds in the amount of $588,403 from the United States Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). This reflects a 14% decrease from last year's award and 16.5% from the year before. Pursuant to HUD regulations, activities must meet one of the following CDBG national objectives: (1) activities benefiting persons of low and moderate income; (2) activities aiding in the elimination of slums and blight; or (3) address an urgent community need. The following outlines activities and/or programs to be funded by the CDBG program beginning July 1, 2012. ______________________________________________________________________________ Housing Activities $ 176,000_____ Provide the following housing activities designed to address health, safety and building code issues, stabilize the City’s housing stock, ensure decent, safe and affordable housing and provide homeownership assistance for the City’s low and moderate income residents. Council on Aging Elder Home Repair Program $ 20,000 Home repair program providing grants and loans to income eligible homeowners 60 years of age or older. Valley CDC Homeownership Assistance Center $ 26,000 Homebuyer assistance program which provides direct referrals to HOME-funded down payment assistance programs and/or HOME-funded units for low and moderate-income households pursuing homeownership. New allocation = $20,000 New South Street Apartments Property Improvements $ 130,000 In exchange for 25 years of additional housing affordability on 18 rental housing units, CDBG funds will be used for building improvements to roof, gutters, heating systems and exterior façade repairs. ______________________________________________________________________________ Public Infrastructure Improvements $ 0___ Provide public infrastructure improvements within CDBG eligible areas with the goal of providing a suitable living environment for low / moderate income households. If project or program income funds become available, funding will be provided for eligible sidewalk and accessibility improvements. 5 _____________________________________________________________________________ Public Facilities and Access_____ $399,861_____ Develop and improve public facilities within CDBG eligible areas and facilities that serve the City’s low/moderate income residents with the goal of ensuring citizens have access to and use of adequate public facilities. Undertake access improvements ensuring persons with physical disabilities have adequate access to public facilities and services. Northampton Senior Center Debt Service $ 319,861 Payment of debt service obligations for the construction of a full service senior center at 67 Conz Street in Northampton. Grace House Kitchen Improvements $ 6,000 Improvements to the kitchen at Grace House (formerly Jessie's House), a program for women in recovery and their children, administered by the Center for Human Development, property owned by the Northampton Housing Authority. James House Renovations $ 80,000 Physical improvements to the James House, a municipally owned Building being converted to a community learning center serving residents with low incomes. ______________________________________________________________________________ Economic Development Activities ___$ 10,000______ Economic development activities that promote job creation and retention within Northampton, and which promote the development of micro-business Enterprises; principally targeted to benefit the City’s low and moderate-income residents. Valley CDC Micro-Business Assistance Program $ 10,000 Provision of funding to the Valley Community Development Corporation for the creation and presentation of workshops to assist micro-enterprises. ______________________________________________________________________________ Public Services $ 91,872___ Provide funding for public services targeted to the City’s low and moderate income population through community based non-profit agencies and organizations. Public services to be funded this year include the following: Casa Latina / Bridges for Latinos $ 8,600 Outreach, education, advocacy, case management and linkage to literacy programs for low and moderate income Latino households in Northampton. Center for Human Development/ $ 3,440 Big Brothers & Big Sisters Mentoring Program 6 A mentoring program targeted to students ages 6-16 and families at the Ryan Road School, the Jackson Street School and JFK Middle School in partnership with the Northampton School Department. Center for Human Development / SRO Outreach Program $ 13,772 Services for the residents of the City’s single room occupancy (SRO) housing which include outreach, advocacy, a food pantry and community service referrals. Center for New Americans / Skills & Job Assistance $ 8,365 Support for programs in computer skills, employment coaching and family literacy skills for immigrant and refugee populations. MA Fair Housing Center / Fair Housing Program $ 2,150 Legal assistance and advocacy to victims of housing discrimination; education to landlords, tenants, and residents seeking housing that focus on fair housing laws and fair lending practices. ServiceNet / Grove Street Inn $ 14,620 Operating funds for the City’s year-round 20 bed emergency shelter for adult men and women. ServiceNet / Hampshire County Interfaith Cot Shelter $ 12,900 Operating funds for the Hampshire Interfaith Cot Shelter, which provides food and emergency shelter during the coldest months of the year, November-April. MANNA / Soup Kitchen $ 2,150 The MANNA soup kitchen provides meals three times per week, 52 weeks a year, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. Operates out of Edwards and St. John's Episcopal churches. Community Action / Generation Q $ 2,580 Provision of weekly support, fellowship, and education for GLBTQQ youth and their allies. Community Action Resource Center $ 2,580 Free, confidential information and referral services connecting clients with state, local and private social service resources and programs. Survival Center / Emergency Food Pantry $ 10,320 Food supplies for Northampton's largest emergency food pantry which serves the City’s low-income residents, as well as school children during the summer. The Literacy Project / Passport to Success $ 7,740 7 Support for adult basic education students to develop academic, job and life skills needed to complete their GED's and transition to post-GED employment and/or higher education. Community Legal Aid / Homelessness Prevention Project $ 2,655 Assist households with eviction prevention and tenancy stabilization to avoid homelessness. _____________________________________________________________________ Planning and Administration $ 117,680 Resources utilized for administrative and project planning activities in the Community and Economic Development Office in its mission to provide community and economic development activities and administration of the Community Development Block Grant Program. Priority Housing Needs/Objectives/Activities Activities Planned for this year indicated in blue. Need/Priority Level Strategy/Program Objective Outcome Number to be served Homelessness Prevention High Priority Create a family outreach and support program for court involved households Assisting persons at-risk of becoming homeless Sustainability of Decent Housing Administered by Community Legal Aid/Community Action. (CDBG,ESG) 50 EL 50 LI Advocate for continued funding for the Tenancy Preservation Program Assisting persons at-risk of becoming homeless Sustainability of Decent Housing Supported funding application to DHCD. (ESG) 60 EL 20 LI Continue to support the SRO Outreach Program Assisting persons at-risk of becoming homeless Sustainability of Decent Housing CDBG support on- going. 200 EL 50 LI Collaborate with Highland Valley Elder Services to identify frail elders living alone Assisting persons at-risk of becoming homeless Sustainability of Decent Housing On-going through the Center for Human 15 EL 10 LI 8 Development/SRO Support self- sufficiency, life skills attainment programs Assisting persons at-risk of becoming homeless Sustainability of Decent Housing CDBG support for public services programs/SRO Outreach 200 EL 75 LI Provision of Emergency Shelter High Priority Continue to support staff capacity for emergency shelter system Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing Availability/ Affordability On-going (CDBG, ESG) 250 EL Improve the physical environment and energy efficiency at the Grove Street Inn Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing Availability/ Affordability Private funding for exterior painting, porch repair secured. Work 2012. 100 EL Provide rapid re- housing services High Priority Facilitate coordinated case management to re-house those who lose their housing Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing Availability/ Affordability On-going through local, regional network committees/REACH 35 EL 15 LI Identify housing resources to use for rapid re-housing efforts Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing Availability/ Affordability On-going through local, regional network committees/REACH 35 EL 15 LI Support self- sufficiency, life skills attainment programs Assisting homeless persons obtain affordable housing Availability/ Affordability On-going support to emergency shelters drop-in Center, SMOC 40EL Preservation of Affordable Housing High Priority Capitalize the Affordable Housing Trust Retention of the affordable housing stock Sustainability of decent, affordable housing Monitor CPC legislation revisions for application/ August 2012 10EL Monitor and intervene as needed to maintain Retention of the affordable Sustainability of decent, affordable 21 units 9 Subsidized Housing Inventory units housing stock housing On-going. Dialogue with Leeds Village Apartment owner/Mass Housing. Re-establish a Housing Rehabilitation Program Retention of the affordable housing stock, energy efficiency, housing quality Sustainability of decent, affordable housing Identify funding. Hilltown CDC willing to administer. 0 units Sustain and improve existing Single Room Occupancy Units Retention of the affordable housing stock Sustainability of decent, affordable housing Facilitate reuse of Shaw’s Motel parcel. Monitor 129 Pleasant. 0 units Support landlords who are providing market rate affordable units Retention of the affordable housing stock Sustainability of decent, affordable housing Housing Action Plan. Hold workshop. Provide assistance for rehabilitation activities/preserve stock Retention of the affordable housing stock Sustainability of decent, affordable housing CDBG funding for rehabilitation work/ New South Street apts. COA Home repair. 18 units / improved and term of affordability restriction increased. Impact Affordability of Rental Housing High Priority Support Northampton Housing Authority (local) and HAP Housing (regional) rental assistance programs Increase utilization of Section 8 rental subsidies in Northampton Improved availability / affordability Support housing stabilization activities for success. CDBG, ESG 35 New VASH vouchers. Total 230. Establish Task Force to increase exceptions rents and reconfigure the regional Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area (Federal Congressional action required) Increase utilization of Section 8 rental subsidies in Northampton Improved availability/ affordability Continue dialogue with NHA and providers. No action taken to date. Est. new SMSA for Northampton 10 Advocate for increased funding for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program Increase availability of rental subsidies Improved availability/ affordability Increased in State budget for this year. Continue to monitor/advocate. New vouchers for EL Facilitate complete utilization of RAFT, ESG, & local funds for housing placement activities (first, last month’s and security deposits) Increase opportunities for accessing/ obtaining affordable housing Improved availability/ affordability FOH funds for ServiceNet distribution. Pursue private funding, churches. 0 EL households Production of Rental Housing for Individuals. High Priority Identify suitable municipal land and make available for housing Increase availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Search continues/ Garfield Verona parcel; final Habitat duplex 2012-13 1 new project scheduled Habitat Pursue tax title property for affordable housing Increase availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Will continue to monitor None identified for LM Convert existing housing to affordable housing Increase availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment/ Sustainability Looking at surplused Smith College, church and Clarke School for the Deaf properties 0 units for EL and LI Promote Infill development Increasing the availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment/ Sustainability Work with Planning Department to identify developers/projects. 0 units proposed at this time. Potential with reuse of Shaw’s Motel parcel. Identify and implement Housing First, Safe Haven projects Increasing the availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Just completed Maple Ave. Will No project identified at this time. 11 pursue Safe Havens next Examine adaptive reuse and mixed use possibilities for affordable housing Increasing the availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Investigating Shaw’s Motel parcel. No project identified at this time. Examine, identify and implement enhanced SRO projects Increasing the availability of affordable permanent housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Will continue to pursue. No project identified at this time. Production of Rental Housing for Families High Priority Examine locations and designs to accommodate smaller households/ cottage style, accessory apartments Increasing the availability of suitably sized affordable housing New availability/ a suitable living environment Next phase of housing at State Hospital/ bungalows for moderate income households. Village Hill project breaking ground, spring 2012. 23 bungalows. Convert existing housing to affordable housing Utilize existing stock New availability/ a suitable living environment Will continue to pursue. No project identified at this time. Promote Infill development for smaller households Protect undeveloped areas New availability/ a suitable living environment Will continue to pursue. No project identified at this time. Identify suitable municipal parcels for development City surplus properties, issue RFP. Discount price to keep developer costs down. New availability/ a suitable living environment Will monitor school, water dept. surplusing No properties available at this time. Affordable Homeownership Opportunities Medium Priority Continue to fund and support the First Time Homebuyer Program Increasing the availability of affordable housing for ownership A suitable living environment and economic opportunity/ CDBG funded / added direct financial assistance 45 LM households served / 2-3 down payment assistance grants Support area foreclosure prevention programs/efforts Increasing the availability of affordable housing for A suitable living environment and economic opportunity/ 25 LI households served 12 ownership neighborhood and economic stabilization Support of Valley CDC and HAP Support post- purchase counseling; budgeting and financial literacy programs Increasing the availability of affordable housing for ownership A suitable living environment and economic opportunity/ neighborhood and economic stabilization Support of Valley CDC and HAP 60 LI households served Continue to fund and support Fair Lending and anti- discrimination practices and programs Increasing the availability of affordable housing for ownership A suitable living environment and economic opportunity/ neighborhood and economic stabilization CDBG funded for annual work scope & AI update 100 EL and LI households served Maintain and Provide Housing for At-Risk Populations High Priority Identify ways to continue the programming instituted through the State ICHH funds and the Federal stimulus allocations Increase the supply of supportive housing to enable homeless and special needs populations to live independently. Increase accessibility and availability/ a suitable living environment. Regional Network SAMHSA grant provides support services for homeless placed in housing. Partnered with UMass Medical for research component. 50 EL households served; project funded for 3 years. Continue to assess the needs of the seriously mentally ill after the completion of the units at the former Northampton State hospital Increase the supply of supportive housing to enable homeless and special needs populations to live independently. Increase accessibility and availability/ a suitable living environment. Will continue to monitor through DMH and State Hospital Advisory Committee 0 units planned at this time 13 Continue to assess the needs of the developmentally disabled after the completion of the Northampton Housing Authority project on Burt’s Pit Road Increase the supply of supportive housing to enable homeless and special needs populations to live independently. Increase accessibility and availability/ a suitable living environment. Advocate for funding allocation for Burt's Pit Road project/ requires creation of a State Bond through DDS. 10 EL units created / on hold due to lack of funding. Identify funding and locations for a Safe Havens Program Increase the supply of supportive housing to enable homeless and special needs populations to live independently. Increase accessibility and availability/ a suitable living environment. Will begin work on developing a Safe Havens Program. Challenge is finding support services funding. 4-6 new EL units created EL = extremely low income, LM= low to moderate income households High Priority Activity Planned Small Related Renter Households 0 – 30% AMI • Support of King Street SRO and Maple Ave. Sober house • CDBG support for SRO Outreach Project, food pantries • Fund Housing Authority infrastructure improvements • Encourage creation of accessory apartments • Work to create a Safe Havens program in Northampton Elderly Renter Households 0 – 30% AMI (recently completed Housing Plan revealed this as a higher priority than large related renter households) • Support funding requests for modernization and operating dollars at Housing Authority • Encourage utilization of the Senior Center for service linkages to improve 14 quality of life • Support collaboration between Highland Valley Elder Services and SRO Outreach worker to identify and serve elders at risk • Attend/support Regional Network Work Group on Elder Homelessness All Other Renter Households 0 – 30% 31 – 50% 51 – 80% • Apply to the Community Preservation Committee for allocation to the Affordable Housing Trust for rental assistance (first, last and security deposits) • Work with private developers (Emerson Way) to create affordable units required by subdivision approval that include accessory apartments • Support CPC funding for Valley CDC pre-development activities Severe Mental Illness 0 – 80% • Dept. of Mental Health present at Next Step, Continuum of Care, Western Mass. Network to End Homelessness, and Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness creating service strategies. • Support WMIC pilot project on breaking down eligibility silos to house chronically mentally ill homeless (CRT). • Support Eliot Services Street Outreach Clinician to assist SMI homeless Alcohol/Drug Abuse 0 – 80% • Support Hairston House, Alliance for Sober Living and Maple Ave. SA treatment program continuum. Collaborative support via Next Step meetings, resident referral, service linkages. • Support Eliot Services Street Outreach Clinician to assist SA homeless • Facilitate Downtown Resource Center Work Group to improve services coordination for street population 15 Priority Public Facilities Needs/Objectives/Activities Need/Strategies/Priority Level Strategy/Program Outcome Construction of public infrastructure to support neighborhood and economic revitalization High/Medium Priority Infrastructure design and construction in targeted income eligible neighborhoods or associated with eligible private or non- profit neighborhood, housing, or economic development projects. Highest priority is for drainage, sidewalks, accessibility, and telecommunications improvements because of limited alternative sources of funds. Sewer, water, roadway, traffic calming, parking and other improvements have medium priority due to alternative funding sources available. Access, Sustainability Fairgrounds Design and Engineering contract beginning. No CDBG funding allocated for streets, sidewalks or access improvements. Streetscape improvements to support neighborhood and economic revitalization Medium Priority Streetscape design, construction, installation in income eligible neighborhoods or associated with eligible private or non-profit projects including but not limited to sidewalks, crosswalks/pedestrian signals and other traffic calming/pedestrian safety measures, accessible ramps/fixtures, street trees/tree wells, street furniture, bike racks, lighting, waste receptacles. Access, Sustainability No projects planned. Public Parks/Recreation Areas to support neighborhood and economic revitalization Medium Priority Park, playground, recreation construction/improvement in income eligible neighborhoods or associated with eligible projects or to enhance handicap accessibility. Access, Sustainability No projects planned. Priority Economic Development Needs/Objectives/Activities Need/Priority Level Strategy/Program Outcome Number Served Increase business development and job retention/creation targeting low/mod residents High Priority Micro-business/small business assistance technical assistance/entrepreneurial training to low/mod income residents and qualified businesses. Access, Sustainability CDBG allocation made. 14 through workshops, 6 one on one technical assistance. Literacy, adult basic education, English as a second language, soft Access, Sustainability 100+ 16 skill/workforce readiness to low/mod income residents, youth, un/underemployed, under-educated, non-English speaking residents. CDBG allocation made, Center for New Americans, Casa Latina, Literacy Project Predevelopment assistance and small business loan program Access, Affordability, Sustainability Refer to regional groups/ EDIC, Federal SBA 10 Preserve and develop affordable housing, studio, rehearsal, and office space for artists and cultural enterprises and integrate L/MI/Special Need populations into community cultural events. Access, Affordability, Sustainability No projects planned. Economic development projects/revitalization to targeted business development areas and targeted business clusters including but not limited to business incubators, clearance, new construction/expansion/ rehabilitation, brownfields redevelopment, predevelopment/project planning activities, job training, energy efficiency/conservation, growing local markets, CBDO assistance, and activities that improve access to services and opportunity by L/MI residents Access, Sustainability Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards now used at local farmers markets to improve access to fresh produce by LMI households. No projects planned. City will be hiring Economic Development Coordinator. Mayor has just named an 11 member ED Commission to craft position requirements and work scope for 2012 and on-going. Will be a City funded position reporting to the Mayor. Infrastructure to support business development and job retention/creation Medium Priority Infrastructure improvements to targeted business development areas and targeted business clusters including but not limited to sewer, water, drainage, roadways, sidewalk/traffic calming, parking, transit, telecommunications. Access, Sustainability Drainage improvements at Fairground Blighted Area, complete sewer pump to serve industrial park, advance passenger railway station, and multi-modal 17 facility. Rehabilitation of deteriorated commercial or industrial property Medium Priority Targeted financial assistance for rehabilitation/renovation to address accessibility, deteriorated buildings, code violations, and energy efficiency. Access, Affordability, Sustainability No projects planned. Outreach/assistance/education to property owners for housing rehabilitation for L/MI restaurant and immigrant workers including but not limited to renovations, education on rehabilitation programs, services/resources for tenants/property owners. Access, Sustainability CDBG support for Center for New Americans. Coordination with BID. Work with Center for New Americans for outreach and building department. Priority Public Services Needs/Objectives/Activities Need/Priority Level Strategy/Program Objective Outcome Basic Needs High Priority Support of funding applications targeted to assist households with basic needs: Emergency fuel assistance Emergency food assistance Access to health care Insure minimums of quality of life are met for health and safety. Sustainability of decent housing; Suitable Living Environment and economic opportunity Youth Programs High Priority Support of funding applications targeted to assist youth  After school tutoring  Adult and peer mentoring; mediation skills  Recreational programming Enhance life skills for successful adulthood; secure education and job training for homelessness prevention and viable independent living Sustainability of decent housing; Suitable Living Environment and economic opportunity Housing Support Services High Priority Support of funding applications that provide support services Provide housing and case management support services for successful tenancies. Sustainability of decent housing; Suitable Living Environment and economic 18 opportunity Services for Special Needs Populations High Priority Support for Services for special needs populations including services to the following: Persons with drug / alcohol addictions; Homeless youth; homeless families with severe barriers to self sufficiency Provision of not only housing, but support services for acquisition of healthy life skills; homelessness prevention Sustainability of decent housing; Suitable Living Environment and economic opportunity Skills Development, Training, Education & Counseling Medium Priority Support applications including but not limited to the development of: Language and literacy skills, transitional education/workforce development, computer skills, employment and training skills, life skills, health/nutrition, energy conservation Enhancing life skills to insure successful education and employment and self-sufficiency; homelessness prevention Economic opportunity, Suitable living environment Transportation services Medium Priority Support of applications for improved transportation for end users/ from areas of low/mod households to work centers Improve linkages for low/mod HH’s between housing and employment Economic opportunity, access to health care, jobs, education Handicap services Medium Priority Support efforts of local Committees and apply funds for entrances, curb cuts, interior public building access and flow Improve accessibility of disabled to the downtown, jobs, public buildings and services Economic opportunity; a suitable living environment; improved accessibility Childcare services Medium Priority Support preservation /creation of child care subsidies Improved ability of heads of households to pursue education and employment opportunities Economic Opportunity Senior Center High Priority Debt service paid by CDBG /approximately $300,000 per year for the next 5 years Successful close out of major public facilities project Improved availability of services for elders/improved quality of life 19 Removal of Architectural Barriers High Priority Survey public buildings, commercial buildings, public infrastructure and park facilities Installation of sidewalk curb cuts Eliminate/lessen hardship to persons with physical disabilities. Suitable living environment Work with Committee on Disabilities and Human Rights Commission Eliminate/lessen hardship to persons with physical disabilities. Suitable living environment Park & Recreation Facilities Medium Priority Construction of new recreation facilities and improvements to existing park and recreation facilities in CDBG target areas and public housing sites. Enhance living environment/ sustainability of decent housing Public Safety Medium Priority Support public safety efforts including but not limited to DARE, crime prevention targeting LMI residents and neighborhoods Address community safety concerns and lessen crime in targeted areas. Suitable living environment Evaluation of Past Performance/ FY12 ACTIVITY TYPE/ Project Proposed Outcome STATUS* Infrastructure Sidewalks Sidewalk improvements. Improved access to downtown from Senior Center and public housing. Conz Street/ street and sidewalk project completed June 2011. Project carried over to pay invoice received FY12. Public Facilities/Access Forbes Library Elevator Design Architectural drawings completed 20 for Accessibility & approved. James House Renovations Phase 3 renovations 95% complete. Facility is occupied by ABE programs. Housing Authority Grace House kitchen renovation project rolled over to FY13. Senior Center Debt Service 5th debt service payment made. Housing Home Repair Program 4 loans, 2 grants 1 grants/ 3 loans as of 3/30/12 Homeownership Assistance 45 households 38 households served Preservation of Affordable Housing Stock New South Street Apts. Building Rehabilitation Funds rolled over to next year. Economic Development Micro Business Assistance / funded for workshops/ 12 to attend, 6 to receive technical assistance; 1 job created, 1 retained 12 individuals counseled, 14 attended workshops, 1 job created, 17 jobs retained Public Services 13 programs funded - Various Outcomes *Status reflects 3 quarters reported through 3/31/12 All on track for CAPER 21 Activities Carried Over Project Amount Public Facilities/ Access Senior Center Debt Service $ 319,681 new funds* James House Construction $ 64,659.99 Grace House Kitchen $ 6,000.00 Housing Home Repair Program $ 3,231.01 New South St. Apartments $ 65,000.00 Infrastructure Streets and Sidewalks $ 0.00 Elimination of Blight Three County Fairgrounds Elimination of blighted buildings and public infrastructure $ 62,029.23 Admin. Staff person departure $ 21,209.87 Total $ 222,130.01 *Not including Senior Center debt service FY13 Other Program Funds:  Projected program income from loan repayments in FY13 is anticipated to be approximately $11,745.  No revolving loan funds  No float-funded activities  No Section 108 Loan guarantees  No surplus funds from urban renewal settlements  No grant funds returned to a line of credit  No income from float-funded activities  No expenditures anticipated for urgent need activities Estimated amount of CDBG funds to be utilized for activities that benefit low and moderate income persons: Low/Mod Benefit Expenditure Levels (91.220(I)(1)(iv)) Total Expenditures 868,487 Planning and Administration 117,680 Subtotal to determine denominator 750,807 LMI Expenditures Public Services @15% 91,867 22 Housing 176,000 Infrastructure - Area Benefit - Public Facilities 399,165 Economic Development 10,000 Subtotal to determine numerator 677,032 LMI Benefit % 90% Non-LMI Expenditures Slums & Blight 62,029 Subtotal non-LMI expenditures 62,029 Citizen Participation and Consultation The Community and Economic Development Office conducted two public hearings, an intensive interview process for public service applicants and held targeted consultations to gather input for the FY13 Annual Action Plan. The first public hearing was held Tuesday, February 14th, 2012 and the second was held Tuesday April 10th, 2012. CDBG grantees and local housing, homeless and social service providers shared issues and trends they are seeing with their client populations and delineated unmet needs. The fifteen Public Service applicant interviews were conducted March 12th, 13th and 14th. The process allowed the Review Committee to ask each applicant about unmet community needs, issues, trends, program successes, as well as budget and fundraising challenges. Additionally, public input was gathered from the general public, municipal departments and boards, community and social service organizations, economic development organizations, regional partners and surrounding communities. More specifically: Next Step Collaborative: Held monthly meetings with affordable housing, homeless shelter and service providers. Meetings held September 8, 2011; October 13, 2011, November 10, 2011; December 8, 2011; January 12, 2012; February 9, 2012, March 8, 2012, April 12, 2012, May 10, 2012 and will be held June 14th. Monthly gatherings facilitate service coordination, track shelter capacity and numbers of unsheltered, street activity, resources available, issues & trends that City/providers should address together. Meetings held monthly since 1994. (Membership list included in appendix). Massachusetts Fair Housing Center: Two meetings held with Executive Director; July 6, 2011 & May 1, 2012. Determined program components for CDBG work scope and outline for Analysis of Impediments update. Held joint meeting with Housing Partnership, Human Rights Commission, the MFHC, the Mass. Justice Project and 23 Community Legal Aid (and others) in November to identify community resources and establish protocols for complaint processing. COSA meetings: (Council of Social Service Agencies under the auspices of the Hampshire County Council of Governments). Attended monthly sessions for discussions, presentations and networking between 25-40 Social Service Agencies. Facilitated a special session on homelessness, to link family and parenting resources with family emergency shelter system and to update on Regional Network activity (March 22, 2012). HIV/Aids: Met monthly with River Valley Counseling Center at Three County Continuum of Care meetings. RVCC reports on issues and trends with HIV/Aids rates, housing and service demands, service gaps. New McKinney bonus project 2011 application for AIDS Care of Hampshire County awarded. Funding for 10 rental subsidies for scattered site housing begins July 1, 2012. Public Housing: Consultations occurred with the Northampton Housing Authority during the months of February and March. Housing Authority Director attended Northampton Housing Partnership meeting December 5th. Met with Director and Habitat for Humanity March 2nd, to discuss partnering on a project. Director attended regional summit held on May 3rd with 24 housing authorities and State officials to enhance collaboration to address homelessness. Northampton Housing Partnership met monthly to implement “Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan”, the housing plan created last year. SRO Outreach Coordinator/ Met separately with new Single Room Occupancy Outreach Coordinator to ascertain needs of residents living in private and publicly funded SRO’s. Three County Continuum of Care/ Input garnered through serving as Lead for the Regional HUD McKinney-Vento continuum (since 1997) and facilitating monthly Continuum meetings. Track implementation of All Roads Lead Home, Pioneer Valley 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness. Grants administration for 1.5 million dollars annually and 20+ regional projects serving the homeless. Western Mass. Regional Network to End Homelessness/ Housing Planner (in role of Continuum administrator) serves on the Leadership Council (quarterly), Steering Committee (monthly), Management Team (monthly) of the Network and participated this last year on the Individual Services Committee, the work group on Housing Sex Offenders and served as defacto staff to the Western Massachusetts Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness. 24 A complete description of the standard Citizen Participation and Consultation Process is included in the appendix. RESOURCES (91.220 c1 and c2) The jurisdiction anticipates the following federal, state, local and private resources to be available in the next year to address local needs. The majority of funds referenced benefit low mod income households within the City of Northampton. Northampton Affordable Housing Trust Fund - The City established the Northampton Housing Trust Fund in 2001 in order to maintain affordability at Hampton Gardens, an expiring use multi unit family housing development. The Trust Fund provided rental subsidies to low / mod income households at the development which secured 8 additional years of affordability. The fund is now exhausted. There will be an effort to recapitalize the fund, possibly through the local Community Preservation Act programming. Community Preservation Act (CPA) – The CPA was passed by the voters in Northampton in November 2005 and allows the City to enact a CPA tax assessment that is matched by the state and used exclusively for open space/ recreation, historic preservation and community housing activities. The forecast for available CPA funds for 2012 - 2013 is roughly 1.1 million, with at least 10% being guaranteed for housing ($110,000). Federal Home Loan AHP Funds– Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity anticipates submitting a funding application in December of 2012 for the Garfield Avenue project. Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program– In May 2011, the Northampton Housing Authority was authorized to administer, in conjunction with their partners at VAMC- Northampton, an additional 50 VASH vouchers, bringing the total to 230. HUD no longer funds the VASH program separately from the NHA’s regular allocation, and has chosen this year only to make incremental funding allocations for a seven month period - April through October 2012. This is as a result of a new funding program aimed at reducing Net Restricted Assets associated with the Section 8 Program. Accordingly, it is not possible for the NHA to provide a funding figure. However, the average monthly HAP payment to a landlord with a VASH client is $433, or about $5,200 per year. Assuming the NHA utilizes all of the 180 prior years allocation of vouchers by July 1, 2012, we would expend $935,000 in HAP payments in FY-13 for those vouchers. A utilization plan for the new FY-12 allocation is currently being developed, but assuming a 75% utilization rate for the fiscal year for those additional vouchers, the expenditure would be an additional $194,850 in HAP payments in FY-13. 25 ( $ 433 x 12 months x 50 vouchers x .75). The utilization rate for those vouchers is largely dependent on the timing of staffing decisions at the VA. Also, the VASH participants are spread throughout the four western counties, so these financial resources are not all spent in Northampton. Other anticipated resources include: (updated as of May 11, 2012) Agency Assistance State / Federal Amount Big Brothers Big Sisters Northampton CDBG Federal $ 5,000 MA Service Alliance State (projected) 2,500 United Way Private (projected) 12,000 Misc. Grants Private (projected) 5,000 Fundraising Private (projected) 30,000 Donations Private (projected) 7,500 Casa Latina United Way Private $ 39,156 Misc. Grants Federal/Local 108,717 Administration Fee C. Dickinson Hospital 19,080 Interpreting Service Fee 16,800 Center for New Americans Northampton CDBG Federal 8,365 Greenfield CDBG Federal 24,000 Amherst CDBG Federal 24,000 Dept. of Education State 322,491 Office of Refugee & Immigrants State 10,000 Foundation Grants Private 60,000 Individual Gifts Private 40,000 Hampshire United Way Private 20,000 Franklin United Way Private 15,000 *City of Northampton McKinney Vento Funding Federal $ 1,499,000 CDBG Allocation Federal 588,430 Florence Fields Rec. Area Mass. PARC Grant 1 State 500,000 Grant 2 State 500,000 Community Preservation Local 2,000,000 Broad Brook Gap Community Forest Program Federal 300,000 Mass. Land Grant State 400,000 Community Preservation Act Local 300,000 Conn.River Greenway Transportation Imp.Program Federal 6,000,000 & Lane Business Park Legislative Earmark State 100,000 Leeds Park and Ride Transportation Imp. Program Federal 1,000,000 High Speed Rail High Speed Rail Funds Federal Western Mass. 73,000,000 & Rail Trail Linkage Northampton 6,000,000 26 State transportation Bond State 1,500,000 South Street Traffic Mass. Smart Growth State 300,000 Calming Overlay MGL40R Community Action Community Services Federal $ 34,906 Generation Q Block Grant Northampton CDBG Federal 2,580 United Way Private 10,500 Foundations Private 18,560 Community Action CSBG Federal $38,399 Com. Resources/ Northampton CDBG Federal 2,580 Advocacy SNAP/DTA State 3,000 Hampshire United Way Private 15,000 Fundraising Private 5,000 Literacy Project WIA Federal $ 44,000 Northampton CDBG Federal 7,740 Ware CDBG Federal 73,500 Greenfield CDBG Federal 17,000 Dept. of Education State 714,567 DESE Career Pathways State 74,000 Donations/fundraising Private 60,000 Womens Missionary Found. Private 10,000 Greater Worcester Found. Private 15,000 Wapack Foundation Private 2,500 Bete Foundation Private 5,000 United Way Private 10,000 Other Foundations Private 10,000 Rental Income Private 4,800 Other Grants Private 88,000 MANNA Soup Kitchen EF and SP Federal $ 1,000 Northampton CDBG Federal 2,150 Shelter Sunday Private 8,000 Project Bread Private 2,000 Donations Private 4,250 Religious Organizations Private 7,000 Mass. Fair Housing HUD FH Grant Federal 325,000 Center HAP/ HUD Federal 30,000 MCAD/HUD Federal 25,000 Springfield CDBG Grant Federal 5,000 Northampton CDBG Federal 2,150 Attorneys Fees Private 12,500 27 Meadowbrook 222 units Low Income Housing Tax Credits Apartments $6.5 Million Equity – 40-Year Affordability Northampton Housing Public Housing Subsidies Federal 387,696 Authority Capital Fund Federal 144,198 ARRA / Capital Projects Federal 182,526 Section 8 Federal 3,480,932 Section 8 Mod Rehab Federal 163,683 Public Housing Subsidies State 362,931 Mass Rental Vouchers State 34,000 Mix Population Grant State 31,200 Modernization Program State 132,400 Veterans Supportive Federal Section 8 324,929 Housing Program Rental Vouchers Religious Organizations Private 6,700 ServiceNet, Inc. DHCD State 67,457 InterFaith Shelter DHCD ESG Grant State 11,315 FEMA Federal 3,625 Deferred Payment Loan Federal 9,996 Northampton CDBG Federal 12,900 Friends of the Homeless Private 15,000 Private Donations Private 6,000 ServiceNet, Inc. DHCD Grove St. / State $ 158,963 Grove Street Inn VOCA Clinical Services State 40,807 MA Shelter Alliance Private 30,171 FEMA Federal 8,000 Hampshire UW Private 30,000 Project Bread Private 3,000 Northampton CDBG Grove Federal 14,620 Shelter Sunday Private 8,000 Private Donations Private 14,000 Citizens Energy Private 1,400 SRO Outreach Northampton CDBG Federal $ 13,772 FEMA Federal 750 United Way Hampshire County Private 37,200 Hap Inc. Non-Profit 2,000 Valley CDC Non-Profit 3,500 Highland Valley Elder Services Private 4,000 Home City Housing Private 2,000 Donations Private (projected) 8,500 28 Survival Center EFSP Federal 1,000 City of Easthampton Federal/State 5,200 Northampton CDBG Federal 10,740 Project Bread Private 8,000 United Way Private 60,000 Misc. Grants Private 35,000 EFSP Grant Federal/Local 500 Goshen Grant Income Local 15,000 Civic/ Business Private 31,400 Religious Private 12,000 Individual Donations Private 295,700 Interest Income Private 5,000 Schools Private 1,000 Three County Project Development-USDA Federal TBD Fairgrounds Cultural Facilities State TBD EDA Federal TBD Valley CDC CDBG Amherst Federal/State 25,000 CDBG Easthampton Federal 4,000 CDBG Northampton Federal 26,000 Florence Savings Private 20,000 TD Bank North Private (projected) 5,000 Citizens Bank Private (projected) 5,000 United Way Private 20,000 Easthampton Savings Bank Private (projected) 4,000 Peoples Bank Private (projected) 5,000 Mass Growth Com. Capital State 20,000 Country Bank for Savings Private 2,500 Berkshire Bank Private 2,500 Membership Donations Private 6,000 Developer Overhead Private/State/Fed 10,000 Fundraising Private 15,000 Homebuyer Workshop Fees Private 10,000 Homeownership Marketing Private 60,000 Foundations Private 10,000 Small Business SBTA State Office of Entrep. State 30,000 Assistance Program USDA Rural Business Dev. Federal 15,000 Grant Northampton CDBG Federal 10,000 Florence Savings Bank Private 5,000 Agency Assistance/Units State / Federal Amount Valley CDC 16 N. Maple State Bond $920,000 11 existing/renovation 96-98 King Street 29 10 new SRO units State Bond $650,000 HOME 500,000 Community Action 24,463 (ARRA funds) Smith College/private 500,000 Pioneer Valley Garfield Ave. Federal AHP $60,000 Habitat for 5 Units Private (Lions Club) 20,000 Humanity Local / State CPA 120,000 Major Donor 25,000 In-kind land donation 125,000 W.M. Com. Foundation 20,000 Massachusetts DMR 10 New Units State (on hold) $2,000,000 Burt’s Pit Road Go West SRO 17 Units State / Federal McKinney Main St. Florence St. Michael’s House 86 Units Mass Housing New Loan State St. The Lorraine SRO 20 Units /Rental subsidies State Private 96 Pleasant St. Earl Street SRO 14 Units Rental Subsidies State / Federal Sec 8 McKinney Funding Hampshire County Programs Federal $342,253/yr. *City of Northampton Projects: Florence Fields Recreation Area is a new recreation area that will serve the entire city. It is within walking distance from Florence Heights, one of the largest housing developments in the City. It is owned and managed by the Northampton Housing Authority and serves families with low incomes. Broad Brook Gap is a critical conservation area serving the entire city. Acquisition and protection enhances overall recreation and conservation opportunities for all city residents. Connecticut River Greenway and adjacent Lane Business Park – This project will create needed riverfront access, riverfront recreation and economic development opportunities immediately adjacent to River Run, the largest condominium development in the City. River Run serves mostly low and moderate income and special needs households and is within walking distance to the Housing Authority’s other large family public housing complex, Hampshire Heights. Leeds Park and Ride Lot – the lot and rail trail access planned will improve access from the Leeds VA Medical Center. Emergency shelter, transitional and permanent housing for formerly homeless Veteran’s currently on site will benefit. Soldier On, a non-profit that administers these programs is developing new permanent limited equity coop housing on the site under separate Federal funding commitments. High Speed Rail and Rail Trail Linkage Project – This project will bring Amtrak back to Northampton, add related traffic signal at Damon Road/Industrial Drive, build a new train station platform and railroad under pass to connect rail trail sections. Will serve adjacent low and moderate income neighborhoods. South Street Traffic Calming Project – funds will complete a streets and traffic calming project which will serve households with low and moderate incomes at the former Northampton State 30 Hospital, now called Village Hill. Will improve safety for driving, walking and biking to and from the downtown. Summary of Specific Annual Objectives and Program Activities (91.220 c 3) The FY13 Year 29 objectives address a range of housing, infrastructure, public facilities, economic development, elimination of blighted and decadent areas, and public service needs identified in the Consolidated Plan and the community outreach process. (See following pages.) On or about July 1, 2012 the City of Northampton will receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds estimated to be in the amount of $588,403 from the United States Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). Pursuant to HUD regulations, activities must meet one of the following CDBG national objectives: (1) activities benefiting persons of low and moderate income; (2) activities aiding in the elimination of slums and blight; and (3) activities that address an urgent community need. Each activity to be funded will address one or more of those objectives. The housing activities are designed to address health, safety, and building code issues and to stabilize the City’s housing stock, ensuring decent, safe and affordable housing for the City’s low and moderate income residents. The Valley CDC will assist low and moderate-income households through a homeownership assistance program that provides referrals to HOME assisted units in Northampton and direct financial assistance. A funding allocation has been made this year to Mt. Holyoke Management Company for renovation activities at 17 New South Street, an apartment block containing 18 affordable units. The funding will be utilized for building improvements focused on energy savings, roof and gutter repair, heating system upgrades and exterior façade repairs. The total commitment of $130,000 will be dispersed over a two year period. (funds carried over from last year). The Northampton Housing Authority will use funding assigned last year to upgrade the kitchen facilities at Grace House, a residential treatment program for women in recovery and their children. The home, located at 143 West Street, was deeded to the Housing Authority as part of the disposition of property from the former Northampton State Hospital. Originally utilized for Jessie's House Emergency Shelter for families, it is now home to another program operated by the Center for Human Development. The building has experienced intensive continuous use for decades and the kitchen is in critical need of renovation. The project is going out to bid in June 2012; work will take place during the summer. 31 The program can provide public infrastructure improvements within CDBG eligible areas with the goal of providing a suitable living environment for low / moderate income households. Funding was going to be considered for sidewalk upgrades on North Street from Market Street to Parsons Street. The estimated CDBG eligible cost for that project is $50,010. However, there do not appear to be sufficient funds to accomplish that project this year. Should funding become available, the project would be considered. The program can develop and improve public facilities within CDBG eligible areas to insure citizens will have access to and use of adequate public facilities. The program can also undertake access improvements ensuring persons with physical disabilities have adequate access to public facilities and services. No such new projects are planned for this year, due to insufficient funds. Carryover funds will be applied to the James House, however. Year 29 will provide funding to 13 public service programs targeted to the City’s low and moderate income population through community based non-profit agencies and organizations. Public services include food and meals programs, housing support programs, literacy and mentoring programs as well as assistance for Latinos and immigrant populations. Economic development activities will promote job creation and retention within Northampton and promote the development of micro-business enterprises, principally targeted to benefit the City’s low and moderate-income residents. The program will provide assistance in eliminating blighted and decadent conditions at the Three County Fairgrounds public facility and deteriorated conditions of surrounding public infrastructure. Funds from last year are under contract. Contract implementation for additional redevelopment site work will occur this year. Planning and administration resources will be utilized to support the provision of professional planning expertise for the City including neighborhood planning, the development and preservation of affordable housing, economic development activities geared towards business support, job creation and retention efforts within the City and administration of the Community Development Block Grant Program. Obstacles to Addressing Underserved Needs There are several obstacles that impact the ability to fully address the needs of low and moderate income households. The primary ones are: - Limited opportunity to utilize a Section 8 voucher in Northampton, due to the lower fair market rate rents assigned to the Springfield SMSA 32 - Low vacancy rates limit availability of market rate affordable units - Complicated nature of funding for affordable housing projects raises costs and renders small housing projects more conducive to rural areas and small cities, infeasible - Reduction in CDBG entitlement allocation impacts funding for eligible activities Allocation Priorities and Geographic Areas Allocation priorities were chosen consistent with the goals and objectives in the Consolidated Plan and in response to the needs identified in the annual solicitation, community outreach process and the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Housing Plan. Geographic Areas Where Activities Will Occur Census tracts with more than 25% minority population are defined as areas of minority concentration. Presently, there are no such areas in the city. Northampton defines census tracts with percentages of low income households that exceed the city average of 39% to be areas of low income concentration. Those tracts consist primarily of the more densely populated areas in and around the Central business district downtown. These tracts are: 8216.01, 8219.02, 8220 and 8221. CDBG Target Areas by Census Tract / Block Group Pursuant to program regulations the following census tracts/block groups are targeted for CDBG funds based on income; more than 51% of the households in these areas have incomes below 80% of median income based on family size. (Census Tract Map attached.) Geographic Description Census Tract, Block & Group North King Street 8216 01 – 1 Florence 8216 02 – 5 Leeds Veterans Hospital 8217 00 – 3 Central Core / Downtown *8219 02 – 2; 8219 02 – 3; 8220 00 – 1 Former State Hospital 8219 02 – 4 *2010 Census Tract 821902 was split into 2: 821903 and 821904 All area benefit activities funded by the City are located within CDBG eligible census tracts. Direct benefit activities are funded throughout the City at locations, which meet direct benefit criteria. The following outlines the City’s rationale for the geographic distribution of activities in relation to specific program areas. Urgent Community Development Needs 33 Pursuant to HUD regulation 570.208 (c) “Criteria for National Objectives”, CDBG resources may be used to address community development needs having a particular urgency. In utilizing this national objective criterion, the jurisdiction must certify that a particular activity is designed to alleviate existing conditions that directly pose a serious and immediate threat to the health, safety and welfare of a community. The existing conditions to trigger an urgent community development need must be recent, or have recently reached a level of urgency within the past eighteen months. The following occurrences and/or conditions may require the determination outlined above:  natural disasters (flood, hurricane, tornado, wildfire)  structural fires of a particularly devastating nature The City, depending on required activity, may complete a determination for CDBG funds to be used to address a particular urgent community development need. The Housing and Community Development Planner/CDBG Administrator shall complete the determination. Concurrence with the completed determination shall be required from the Mayor prior to the expenditure of CDBG funds. Examples of activities that typically meet an urgent community need are infrastructure improvements, interim assistance, and rehab of a community facility. Action Plan Amendments During the course of CDBG program year 29, funded activities may require budget adjustments based on project related cost overruns or cost savings. Such adjustments will be made only to activities included within an approved annual Action Plan. At such times the City requires flexibility in adjusting budgets. A budget adjustment will be considered a substantial amendment to the Action Plan if it meets the criteria established in the Citizen Participation Plan. Annual Affordable Housing Goals (91.220 g) The Valley CDC completed the rehabilitation of an existing building on King Street near downtown Northampton last year. The project added 10 new SRO units to the inventory. The building formerly housed 2 apartments and first floor commercial space. The beautifully renovated structure now provides 10 enhanced SRO units, five specifically for formerly homeless. Due to the lack of funding for staff capacity and the length of time and complexity for affordable housing project feasibility and completion, Valley had to eliminate their Project Manager position. VCDC works in Hampshire County, not just Northampton. The agency is currently engaged in a lengthy Chapter 40B permitting process for a large development in Easthampton and also pursuing a project in Amherst. As a result, Valley can only take on one or two projects at a time. Although the increased inventory in the 34 region is beneficial, that means Valley does not have any Northampton projects in the pipeline. Valley did make two offers on the Shaw’s Motel property downtown that were not accepted by the sellers. There may be FY13 activity on this site and Valley CDC remains interested. The City sponsored a neighborhood meeting in conjunction with the Neighborhood Association which identified affordable housing as a use the neighbors would support. The Northampton Housing Authority still awaits the opportunity to break ground on 10 new units for the clients of the Department of Developmental Services. The project, located on Burts Pit Road, has been designed and permitted, but there are no State funds currently available. A bond is required and it appears the preference is for renovating existing properties as opposed to new construction. The next phase of new construction at the former State Hospital will be a section of bungalow housing. This project, being shepherded by MassDevelopment, was supposed to serve as "work force" housing (80-120% of area median income range as identified in the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan). MassDevelopment issued a request for proposals and has hired a developer. Although still described as conceptual, the sales price has been readjusted to 350,000. It will remain to be seen if this phase is affordable to the work force housing income range. Soldier On, a private non-profit organization serving Veterans from the New England region, recently announced plans to launch a project in Northampton. Soldier On, in what is being described as a "first in the nation" partnership, will team up with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs to create up to 80 units of permanent housing for Veterans on the Leeds campus. The plan is to build between 60 and 80 units on 9 acres with room for expansion to as many as 150 units. The VA Medical Director said in a press release that this project will help meet the VA's goal to end homelessness among Veterans within 5 years. The majority of the project will be funded through a grant of up to $8 million dollars from the VA Innovative Initiative program. Soldier On has obtained the land from the VA through an "enhanced use" lease. The studio and one bedroom apartments will begin construction at the end of this calendar year. Gandara Community House (Yvonne's House #2) opened in the fall of 2011. Friends of the Homeless partnered with the Gandara Center to purchase a duplex on Maple Avenue, in downtown Northampton. Through private fundraising, a Community Preservation funding award and a grant from MassHousing's CCRI Program, an opportunity was created to house 6 homeless residents committed to sobriety. The property was renovated over the summer and is now fully occupied. 35 Regional Activity/ Despite the lack of projects planned for Northampton, Western Massachusetts fared extremely well in the most recent round of the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Affordable Housing awards. These projects will increase the affordable housing inventory across the region. In a press release issued May 9, 2012, the following projects were identified as award recipients:  Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village in Agawam = Soldier On, Inc. will use $2,715,000 in DHCD housing subsidies and $544,657 in state and federal low income housing tax credits to renovate the former Western Mass Regional Police Academy into 54 units of limited equity cooperative housing for formerly homeless Veterans. The project is expected to provide 85 jobs.  Olympia Oaks in Amherst = HAP, Inc. will use $2,715,000 in DHCD housing subsidies and $1.1 million in state and federal low income housing tax credits to create 42 units of affordable family housing, with eight units reserved for extremely low income households and 2 formerly homeless families. Project will create 81 jobs.  Cottage Square in Easthampton = Arch Street Development will use $2.5 million in DHCD housing subsidies and $981,271 in state and federal low income housing tax credits to create 50 units of affordable family housing. Five units will be reserved for extremely low-income households. Project will create 111 jobs. 50 one, two and three bedroom apartments will be created for tenants whose income falls between $28,000 and $42,000. Project is set to begin at the end of this calendar year with a 14 month construction schedule. Units could be available for rent in early 2014.  Dial Self Teen Housing in Orange = Franklin County Dial Self will use $1.3 million in DHCD housing subsidies to preserve nine units of affordable housing for youth aging out of the foster care system. The renovation project will generate 11 jobs.  Westhampton Woods in Westhampton = Hilltown CDC will use $800,000 in DHCD housing subsidies to create eight units of affordable housing for seniors, with two units reserved for extremely low income households. Project will create 10 jobs. Annual Public Housing Goals (91.220 h) As stated in the 5-Year and Annual Plan, the Northampton Housing Authority’s mission statement is as follows: “ The Northampton Housing Authority is committed to ensuring decent, safe and affordable housing, and housing opportunity for the citizens of Northampton and the region in an effort to maintain the economic diversity of the community. To this end the NHA shall strive to create and maintain clean and secure housing developments, offer a variety of housing opportunities for the community’s citizens, assure fiscal integrity by all program participants, and work to support 36 initiatives to provide opportunities for residents who wish to gain self-sufficiency and economic independence. The effectiveness of these endeavors is measured, in part, by the dedication of an innovative and caring staff to efficient program management, and collaboration with residents, community service providers and Northampton’s government and community leaders”. The City and Housing Authority work together to carry out the mission. The NHA was involved with the creation of the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan. The Director attended a Housing Partnership meeting in December 2011 to update members on NHA activities. Additionally, the Director attended a session of all Western Mass. housing authorities (18) held in Holyoke on May 3, 2012 to strategize how housing authorities can assist in the effort to end homelessness. A follow up meeting will be held June 18th to identify specific tasks. A CDBG request to refurbish the kitchen at the Grace House which was approved last year, will be implemented this program year. The City will also support NHA efforts to develop the 4th parcel deeded to them at the Former State Hospital, (Laurel Street) for homeownership. Representatives of the Housing Authority are invited to all meetings facilitated by the CEDO office relative to affordable housing, coordinated service delivery and case management. NHA Rental Assistance program managers are actively involved in the administration of subsidies for the HUD VASH Program, The Florence Inn, Go West, Hathaway Farms, the Maples and with assisting homeless and formerly homeless residents with housing search activities. Housing Authority capital improvement projects planned for this program year are:  Purchase and install DHW heaters at Florence Heights (25) $40,000 Flooring improvements at McDonald House common areas $2,000 Add electrical circuits to emergency generator at McDonald House $5000 Install auto door opener at McDonald House (community room access) $2500 Install automatic door opener at Tobin Manor $2500 New roofs and column repair at Forsander Apartments $120,000 Grace House Kitchen $23,000 Patch pavement, apply seal crack to driveways and parking areas (all developments) $3000 Cahill Apts. community hall upgrades $15,000 Repair Columns at Forsander 15,000 Western Massachusetts Continuum Reconfiguration During FY13, the City of Northampton will cease to be the lead agency for the Three County Continuum of Care. The Housing Planner will no longer serve as the Continuum representative on the Western Mass. Regional Network Leadership Council, Steering Committee, Management Team, Governance Committee or as staff to the Western Mass. Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness. 37 The City of Northampton’s Community and Economic Development Office will be deconstructed. The Housing Planner and Administrative Assistant will report to the Mayor directly. Due to staff transitions and resource challenges, the once 4 person office is now comprised of two people. The focus of the remaining 2 people will be the administration of the CDBG Program. The Mayor will hire a new person to do the economic development work. There is currently a regional dialogue underway to identify an entity to take on the administration of the McKinney grant and Continuum facilitation. The Housing Planner/CDBG Administrator will continue to: • facilitate the Next Step meetings which are the monthly gatherings of local housing and homeless service providers to coordinate area services, identify and address service system gaps • provide staff support to the Northampton Housing Partnership and guide the implementation of the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan • coordinate the Downtown Resources Work Group; monthly gathering of business improvement district reps, social service providers, police officers and the City • conduct focus groups needed for community input around community development, affordable housing and fair housing issues Annual Homeless and Special Needs Goals (91.220 i) During Year 29, the City will actively support with CDBG funding, the Interfaith Shelter, the Grove Street Inn and the SRO Outreach Project. City staff will work closely with the Outreach Clinician from Elliott Services to monitor the number and needs of unsheltered residents in the community. The City will support local efforts of Friends of the Homeless to assist ServiceNet with the Interfaith Shelter operation, fundraise for the boot program, dental care and rental assistance. Numbers being served in the homeless shelter system locally were relatively stable this past year. The number of new people to the shelter increased during the year and it remained full through to the last day of operation. Regional capacity issues will continue to be addressed during this coming year. Coordination with the Amherst winter shelter will continue to be necessary as guests tend to move between the two communities frequently. The City secured funding through the HUD McKinney program, hired staff and launched the creation of a Homeless Management Information System. This system tracks the numbers, needs and housing placements of the chronically homeless. This past year saw great strides in improving the efficiency and productivity of the regional HMIS system. The Annual Point in Time count and Annual Homeless Assessment Report and the Housing Inventory Chart were compiled and submitted according to 38 HUD regulations. A sampling of the reports located on HUD’s HRE HDX Dashboard are included in the following pages. Chronic homeless activities: During FY13, the City will actively support with CDBG funding, the Interfaith Shelter, the Grove Street Inn and the SRO Outreach Project. City staff will also work closely with the Outreach Clinician from Eliott Services to serve the unsheltered, chronically homeless people in the community. During the annual Point in Time survey count, sheltered and unsheltered chronic homeless individuals (and families) are identified and tracked. Service Providers meet regularly to develop individual service plans to move the chronically homeless into housing. Services are provided through the C-SPECH and REACH programs. The C-SPECH program (Community Support Program for People Experiencing Chronic Homelessness) provides outreach, case management, assessment and referral services to people with mental health and/or addiction issues whom are chronically homeless or recently housed with chronic homeless history in order to promote long term housing stabilization. The program’s mission is to promote housing stability and readiness for treatment services, so clients can access and participate in community based social services that in turn may promote long-term physical & mental health, sobriety, and community based permanent housing. The type of services provided is based on a pretreatment model that values “meeting clients where they are at” and thereby believes that all chronically homeless clients in need of housing and stabilization services could benefit from these services as listed below: • Relationship building, engagement and outreach services • Common language development and articulation of client generated goals • Facilitate psychosocial rehab on defining obstacles to goals and developing skills and supports • Active housing search and placement with focus on affordability and transition/adaptation issues to new settings • Landlord mediation and counseling re: transition to housing community • Focus on development of safety plans regarding mental health, substance abuse, trauma, and housing crisis. This includes access and use of area crisis teams, detoxification facilities, psychiatric inpatient units, and self help networks, etc. • Assessment and referral to community based social services with support around critical transitions to new services • Provide education and access to needed community resources such as food pantries, benefits and rental assistance • Eligibility determination and readiness work to promote access to umbrella state agencies such as DMH, DDS, Substance Abuse Bureau, SHIP, etc. 39 • Integration of Change Model, Motivational interviewing, and Harm Reduction approaches Selection Criteria is based on the following: Single adults with a history of chronic homelessness, mental health diagnosis, MBHP membership, and a willingness to engage in services. The program operates through a philosophy of continued and extensive outreach and engagement services regardless of current housing status. Eliot Services PATH staff currently serves two clients in the Northampton area and will continue to make two slots available throughout the year. They have matched C-SPECH services with affordable housing placements via VASH Vouchers, Home City Housing, and Northampton Housing Authority units. Staff offers a minimum of 3 hours of housing stabilization services per week per client and currently serves up to 12 clients thru out Western MA (6 in Springfield). REACH (Regional Engagement and Assessment of Chronically Homeless) housing first services were provided by ServiceNet, but these clients were transferred to the Housing Plus program as part of a regional SAMHSA grant, once REACH dollars ran out. REACH provider participates continue to meet monthly at the Department of Mental Health building to match chronically homeless clients with affordable housing resources and support services. Housing and service providers attend along with direct care persons who have contact w/homeless individuals in need of housing and support services. The support service and housing programs in attendance and utilized include, but are not limited to the following: • Behavioral Health Network and Soldier On /SAMHSA Mission West Program • Eliot Community Health System – C-SPECH & PATH • Home City Housing – Go West and other Housing Resources • VA Case managers – VASH • ServiceNet – Shelter, Drop in Center, Housing Plus-SAMHSA Team, Yvonne’s House • DMH Western Mass. Housing Coordinator Chris Zabik – Eligibility for Shelter Plus, CBFS, Case management services • Mental Health Association – Shelter plus Care McKinney Subsidies • DMH Club House- Starlight Center With the 100% response rate for Annual Point in Time Count surveys, as well as the increasing utilization of the HMIS system, data on the chronically homeless is becoming more reliable and comprehensive. The Street outreach worker who conducts the unsheltered count has been the same individual for years. Brendan Plante from Eliot Services knows the unsheltered individuals well, as many of them tend to be the same year after year. The locations where unsheltered folks camp are well known. 40 The number of unsheltered chronic homeless has gone from 11 in 2010 to 5 in 2012. There is always a slight increase when the winter shelters in Northampton and Amherst close for the season. Efforts towards engagement and trust building continue. Sometimes the process takes years. Specific FY13 Action steps to end chronic homelessness: • CEDO staff will facilitate local collaboration between Police Department, service providers and downtown business community to improve services coordination for sheltered and unsheltered chronically homeless downtown. This task force, entitled the Downtown Resource Center Work Group, first met on June 23, 2011. The group continues to meet to address downtown safety and services coordination for the homeless, as well as the relocation and expansion of the Homeless Drop-In Resource Center. • Street Outreach Clinician will continue to link unsheltered residents with local services and participate in coordinated case management meetings with other providers. • City will continue to participate in Western Mass. Regional Network to End Homelessness Discharge Planning meetings to develop and adopt local protocols to prevent public systems discharging people into homelessness. Meetings are taking place with area hospitals, psychiatric units, community mental health workers, reintegration managers at area jails and houses of corrections. Work group on housing sex offenders continues to meet regularly. • CEDO staff will meet with potential developers of Safe Havens housing to identify support services dollars, which are difficult to locate. Homelessness Prevention: During Year 29, the City will actively support with CDBG funding, the SRO Outreach Program, the Community Action Resource Center/First Call for Help, the Literacy Project, the Manna Soup Kitchen, the Survival Center Food Pantry, the Valley CDC Homeownership Program, the Council on Aging Home Repair Program and the Mass. Fair Housing Center’s Fair Housing Program. The CDBG Public services Review Committee also voted to fund a new project this year. The Community Legal Aid Homelessness Prevention Project focuses specifically on court involved households and works to stabilize public housing tenancies. The target population is households with public subsidies because the loss of those subsidies severely limits options for housing placements in the future. All the public service programs listed above directly or indirectly preserve existing housing. Regionally, the City will participate in efforts to secure funding to maintain and/or expand the Tenancy Preservation Program, the tenant/landlord mediation services provided through the Housing Court, and seek additional financial sources for rental and utility arrearages for households at risk of homelessness. 41 The City also supports the efforts of Valley Community Development Corporation. Valley holds quarterly meetings with its property manager and area service providers to identify and resolve any challenges Valley’s tenants may be experiencing in order to stabilize the tenancies and prevent evictions. The City has encouraged SMOC (South Middlesex Opportunity Council based in Framingham) that owns and operates affordable SRO housing in the region to adopt the same model. As the region moves to a homelessness prevention, housing first and rapid re-housing system model, the City will engage in efforts to promote and create those programs. The City will also be cognizant of the need to transition to this new system slowly, rather than dismantling the emergency shelter system prior to the other components being in place. Supportive Housing for Non-Homeless: The City will continue to support, through CDBG funding, the Senior Home Repair Program for those age 60 and older. This program assists the elderly and frail elderly with home repairs to enable them to remain safely in their own homes. Locally, persons with disabilities are assisted by the Stavros Center for Independent Living. The City will continue to advocate for funding for the Housing Authority's project proposed for clients of the Department of Developmental Services. Persons with HIV/AIDS are assisted by Hampshire Aids/Care, the River Valley Counseling Center and Tapestry Health. Persons with alcohol abuse issues will be assisted by the new sober home on Maple Avenue created last year with CPA, MassHousing CCRI and private funding. The house is now fully inhabited with 6 formerly homeless men and women committed to sobriety. The Department of Mental Health added three subsidies in Northampton from a statewide allocation that came on line last year. They were applied to already existing units. No new units of housing for DMH clients are proposed for this coming year. Activities to Overcome Barriers to Affordable Housing (91.220 j) During Year 29, the Housing Partnership will work closely with the Office of Planning and Development to develop recommendations on zoning changes that will facilitate the preservation and creation of affordable housing units. The Housing Partnership will continue to implement recommendations in the Housing Needs Assessment/Strategic Housing Plan. The Community Preservation Committee awarded the funding to the Partnership to create the plan, so they can use it to guide CPA funding decisions. The Planning Board is also benefitting from having a document that clearly articulates housing needs in the community and possible zoning revisions to encourage unit preservation and new creation. This will enhance the City’s overall coordination with regard to housing policy and program support. 42 Contained within the Strategic Housing Plan are several regulatory recommendations the Housing Partnership, CEDO and Planning Office will continue to pursue to encourage the creation of affordable housing. Some of those action items suggested are:  Adopt inclusionary zoning  Ease restrictions on city and village center development  Promote mixed use development in more locations  Revise Cluster Zoning Provisions  Modify Accessory Apartment requirements  Revise Parking requirements  Explore form based zoning  Establish a new mixed use innovations zone  Fund small infill development  Recapitalize the Trust Fund  Make suitable public property available for development The City will continue to work closely with the Northampton Housing Authority to improve accessibility to housing opportunities. Through the Housing Partnership, a fact sheet was created for Housing Authority dissemination to formerly homeless applicants. It is often difficult for formerly homeless to provide all the required documentation for a Housing Authority application (i.e. 5 years of recent rental history). By bringing the Housing Authority Director together with local homeless advocates, a sheet was created that informs the applicant that they can be assisted at ServiceNet’s Drop In Center (and includes a map). This will reduce the number of rejections based on incomplete applications and result in more formerly homeless securing permanent affordable housing. The NHA has also hired bi-lingual personnel and efforts continue to create tenancy documents in other languages. Assistance from the Mass. Fair Housing Center will be requested to update the Impediments to Fair Housing Analysis. CDBG funding will be used to update the plan. A focus group is planned for late May 2012. On-going consultation will occur with housing and homeless service providers through the Next Step Collaborative and Three County Continuum of Care (in the new configuration) to address any barriers that may be identified throughout the year. Annual HIV/AIDS Housing and HOPWA Goals (91.220(1)(3)) During Program Year 29, AidsCare of Hampshire County will continue providing 10 rental subsidies to households affected with HIV/Aids. Case management services, including housing search, homelessness prevention, life skills training and advocacy will be provided to those households. An application was made to the HUD McKinney Program in 2011, as the number one bonus project. The funding award for 10 additional 43 housing subsidies has been approved and will begin July 1, 2012. The case management component will also be enhanced with this funding award. Discharge Policy (91.225(c)(10) The City will support the Three County Continuum of Care protocols to prevent people from being discharged from public and private institutions directly into homelessness. Additionally, the Massachusetts Operational Services Division has developed discharge planning specification language in its human services RFPs to ensure consistency in discharge planning for state funded agencies in order to establish an effective discharge policy in the service system statewide. The language aims to ensure consistency in discharge planning among vendors. Massachusetts has an on-going practice of evaluating its policies to prevent discharge from institutions and health care facilities that result in homelessness. Monitoring (91.230) The Community and Economic Development Office (CEDO) will monitor and measure the success of annual activities against the goals identified in the Consolidated Plan. Progress on the ConPlan needs and strategies will be evaluated on an annual basis to determine if changes are required to plan priorities and strategies. Performance of annual activities will be evaluated against the target outcomes identified in the sub- recipient agreements. CEDO will conduct on-site monitoring visits to sub-recipients on a regular rotating basis. In addition all sub-recipients will provide quarterly and annual reports which will be reviewed and entered into the IDIS reporting system. Any problems identified by sub-recipients or by CEDO staff will be address on a quarterly basis. Expenditures will be monitored and evaluated quarterly. 44