FY 2009 Year 26 CAPER1
City of Northampton, Massachusetts
Community and Economic Development Office
CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM
July 1, 2009 - June 30, 2010
Municipal Fiscal Year 2010
CDBG Program Year 26
PRIORITY NEEDS ADDRESSED
The Consolidated Plan is a five-year plan that identifies the City’s priority needs and
highlights those eligible to be addressed with CDBG funds. Each successive year the
City prepares an annual Action Plan based on priority needs detailed in the
Consolidated Plan. The City’s 2005 Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan
prepared for Program Year 26 provided relevant guidance on the use of CDBG
funds. This annual performance report summarizes this past year’s achievements.
The use of CDBG funds in Year 26 corresponds to the priorities listed within those
two planning documents. This past year’s programming addressed a majority of the
high and medium priority needs identified. All CDBG funds programmed this past
year, including all available funds remaining from prior years, were directed
towards meeting the CDBG National Objective of benefiting persons with low and
moderate incomes.
High Priority Needs Addressed
• Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation and Repair
• Preservation of Existing Affordable Rental Housing Stock
• Housing Support Services
• Emergency Food Assistance
• Youth Programs
• Services for Special Needs Populations
• Skills & Training Development
• Removal of Architectural Barriers
Year 26 CAPER Page 2 of 33
• Micro Businesses Assistance
• CDBG Administration, Community and Economic Development & Staff
Capacity
Medium Priority
• Preservation of the Existing Shelter System
• Public Facilities
• Community Centers
• Job Creation and Retention
Assessment of Goals and Objectives
The City of Northampton successfully addressed the priorities identified in the 2005
Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. CDBG funding allocations were spread
across a diverse array of projects and services, all of which were targeted to meet the
City’s high and medium priority needs. See page 21 for a detailed description of
funded activities and annual accomplishments.
The following information summarizes Program Year 26 funding availability and
expenditures:
Funds Available from Prior Years: $ 304,604.03
Year 26 Grant Award: $ 756,801.00
Program Income Received Year 26: $ 36,950.22
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Funds Available for Year 26: $ 1,098,355.25
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Funds Expended During Year 26: $ 810,059.03
Total Funds Carried Over to Year 27: $ 288,296.22
Low / Mod Certification
Low / Mod Funding Percentage Year 24 / PY2007 100%
Low / Mod Funding Percentage Year 25 / PY2008 100%
Low / Mod Funding Percentage Year 26 / PY2009 100%
Public Service Funding Percentage Year 26 $ 112,790 14.9%
Planning and Admin Funding Percentage Year 26 $ 146,951.94 19.4%
Year 26 CAPER Page 3 of 33
Each program year, as part of developing the annual CDBG Action Plan, the City
evaluates its priority needs and makes adjustments based on this evaluation. The
most recent evaluation of priorities occurred early in 2010; as part of developing the
new 5 year Consolidated Plan and the Year 27 CDBG Annual Action Plan.
The program and project goals established through contractual agreements with
sub-recipient organizations were substantially met. The Council on Aging Home
Repair Program, Valley CDC First Time Homebuyer Program and Micro Business
Assistance Program, and public service activities all combined to provide much
needed assistance to the low and moderate-income residents of Northampton.
For City residents who are renters, CDBG-funded activities included counseling for
households that felt they experienced discrimination. Efforts were made to inform
real estate professionals and rental property owners of their rights and
responsibilities to insure that a rental situation is beneficial for both parties.
Additionally, the SRO Outreach program provided housing stabilization support to
residents of SRO units through food pantry access and linkages to other service
delivery systems. Valley’s First Time Homebuyer Program prepared renters looking
to purchase homes in the community.
CDBG-funded programs to assist those finding them-selves homeless in
Northampton included staffing at the City’s homeless shelters (Grove Street Inn and
Interfaith Cot Shelter). Many of the public services grant recipients carry out
homelessness prevention activities, such as Generation Q and the Literacy Project’s
Passport to Success Program.
CDBG funded programs to help low and moderate income residents meet their basic
needs. The Northampton Survival Center received funding for their emergency food
pantry and Kid’s Summer Food Program, which bridged the summer nutrition gap
by distributing free groceries for breakfasts and lunches to Northampton children
who rely on the school meal programs during the year. A meals program operated
by the Manna Soup Kitchen in downtown was available to the homeless and other
persons with limited means.
For those households with low and moderate incomes able to afford
homeownership, the Valley CDC Program offered counseling, guidance and referral
to HOME assisted units in the area. Financial Literacy workshops, fair housing
workshops and First Time Homebuyer Sessions were all offered to insure future
homeowners are educated about the home buying process. The Mass Fair Housing
Center offered foreclosure prevention assistance to help maintain homeownership
once obtained.
Economic development was enhanced by work at the James House Community
Learning Center, Valley CDC’s Micro Business Counseling Program, the River
Valley Market small business loan, and public infrastructure projects undertaken by
Year 26 CAPER Page 4 of 33
the City. Working on projects that provided educational training to enable people to
obtain jobs as well as on projects that actually created jobs, was a focus this past year.
The City implemented its Year 26 CDBG Action Plan through the combined efforts
of City departments, the Northampton Housing Authority, area non-profit social
service agencies, local economic development organizations and non-profit regional
and local housing providers.
Affordable Housing
Presently, approximately 11.8 % of the housing stock in Northampton is affordable.
The City’s goal is to maintain and expand on this inventory of affordable housing
through all means available, including utilization of:
HUD Community Development Block Grant funding
HUD Self Help Homeownership Opportunity Funding (through our partner
Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity)
HUD McKinney Vento Supportive Housing Program funding
Federal SAMHSA funds
HUD VASH vouchers
Federal Affordable Home Loan Bank Funding
State HOME funds as well as other available state resources (through our
partners the Valley CDC, HAP – The Region’s Housing Partnership, MA
Department of Housing and Community Development, and Mass Housing
Partnership and their affiliated programs).
Zoning regulations which encourage affordable housing (with private as well as
non-profit developers)
The City continued to focus block grant resources towards housing this past year.
Specific housing activities funded through block grant allocations were in all cases
leveraged by other funding sources, some listed above. CEDO staff capacity was
supported by CDBG planning and administration funds and focused on affordable
housing creation through preservation and rehabilitation of existing housing stock in
partnership with non-profit housing developers and the provision of support
services for housing stabilization.
The City of Northampton allocated $129,043 of its available CDBG funds for
housing and homelessness activities. The following components were funded:
1. Council on Aging / Home Repair Program $56,188
2. Valley CDC / First Time Homebuyer Program $20,000
3. Housing Support Services/ SRO Outreach $18,000
4. Homeless Shelter Staffing (Grove Street and Cot Shelter) $32,355
5. Fair Housing Services $2,500
Year 26 CAPER Page 5 of 33
Affordable Housing Projects Completed
Valley Inn - 209 Locust Street/ This property had been leased for 20 years by
ServiceNet, Inc. to house mentally ill adults through a contract with the Department
of Mental Health. This year ServiceNet opted to vacate the site and purchase 2
separate residences in the community. The new properties are closer to commercial
districts and provide more opportunities for independent living. Rental subsidies are
provided through the State’s MRVP Program and are administered by HAP. For
these 2 properties and one in Amherst, ServiceNet secured $845,000 from the
Facilities Consolidation Fund (State) and $495,000 in Housing Stabilization Funds
(State) and $1,050,000 from CEDAC (State) for acquisition. There will be a permanent
loan of $350,000.
Because the Locust Street property owner was the recipient of a CDBG rehab loan
through the City, he has an obligation to continue to utilize the Valley Inn to serve
residents with low and moderate incomes (or repay the loan). After extensive
outreach to other social service agencies and housing providers (to no avail), he has
opted to convert the building to 2 apartments and will seek income eligible tenants
from the Northampton Housing Authority.
Accomplishment: Two new affordable family units.
Yvonne’s House – Straw Avenue – A very exciting housing project came to fruition
this past year. Yvonne Freccero, President of Friends of Hampshire County
Homeless Individuals and long time homeless advocate, saw a dream come true. Ms.
Freccero combined $100,000 of privately raised funds with $220,000 from the
Community Preservation Committee and purchased a duplex to house chronically
homeless adults. The attractive property located in an established residential
neighborhood is close to the bike path and public transportation. Four men live on
the second level and two women live on the first. The house was purchased by FOH
then deeded to ServiceNet, Inc. for on-going ownership and case management.
The concept for the home came about as Ms. Freccero observed some of the same
people coming to the winter shelter season after season. She felt that with the
presence of support services, those guests could be successfully housed. With
ServiceNet, Inc.’s case management assistance, individuals ready to be housed were
identified. Out of the original 6 Yvonne’s House residents, most had been homeless
for many years. Since the program opened in July of 2009, there has only been one
turnover. This is Northampton’s premiere “Housing First “project and hopes are
that Friends of the Homeless will work to replicate it elsewhere in the community.
(see attached article).
Accomplishment: Six new affordable units for the chronically homeless.
Housing Projects Underway
The following projects are underway and have support from both the City
Year 26 CAPER Page 6 of 33
departments and the Northampton Housing Partnership:
Garfield/Verona Homeownership Units – Development of three duplexes for
six affordable homeownership units by Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity.
Construction on the project began in the spring of 2009. Two units will be
finished and occupied before the end of the 2010 calendar year.
Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) Program – Through the
Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Northampton Housing
Authority was awarded $324,929 to provide subsidized housing vouchers for
homeless veterans. So far, 3 allotments of 35 vouchers each have been
received. The NHA is collaborating with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center
in Leeds. VA staff assists with housing search and case management, while
the NHA does the voucher administration.
96-98 King Street - Valley CDC received funding awards in early 2010 to
convert an existing building into 10 units of enhanced SRO housing. VCDC
secured a State HOME award of $500,000, $150,000 from the State’s
Affordable Housing Trust Fund, $500,000 from the State’s Housing
Innovations Fund, $225,000 from the local Community Preservation
Committee. Smith College is contributing $550,000 from its Affordable
Housing Fund as a local match. Also secured were a $26,000 weatherization
and energy loan from Community Action and a $100,000 permanent loan
from Florence Savings Bank. Construction will begin in the fall of 2010.
16 N. Maple Street - The Maples – Valley CDC also secured funding sources
this past year to renovate an existing SRO they own and manage in Florence.
Improvements will be made to 11 SRO units. Relocation will begin during the
summer, with construction commencing in early fall of 2010.
Housing Projects Awaiting Funding
Burts Pit Road Parcel- The Northampton Housing Authority is ready to begin
construction on a project being done in collaboration with the Department of
Developmental Services (formerly Department of Mental Retardation) to
develop a congregate facility. This is the third State Hospital parcel deeded
directly to the NHA in the land disposition agreement. The facility will house
10 DDS clients and have environmentally friendly features such as
geothermal and passive solar heat design elements. The project has been
finalized and permits were secured in 2009. This project is on hold, however,
due to the lack of allocated State resources.
Housing Projects being Planned
Laurel Street Parcel – The Northampton Housing Authority is planning for
Year 26 CAPER Page 7 of 33
the development of a parcel that is the fourth and final deeded through the
State Hospital disposition. The conceptual plan is to construct 6 duplexes for a
total of 12 units targeted for homeownership. The project is on hold
considering there are very limited State funding resources for the creation of
homeownership units. Moving ahead also requires State legislative approval
to revise the Land Disposition agreement which stipulated the parcels be
developed for rental housing.
Soldier On – Soldier On has applied to the Veterans Administration for an
Enhanced Use Lease for 8 acres on the VA campus in Leeds. If approved, they
will apply for a Section 202 loan in the next grant round. The conceptual plan
is for 2 detached residential units containing 40 assisted living rooms each.
This will enable Veterans currently living in Soldier On’s limited equity coops
in Pittsfield to transfer their ownership to Leeds as they age and are in need of
medical attention. This housing type would complete the impressive
continuum of care Soldier On has created for homeless Veteran’s, from
emergency shelter, to transitional housing, to permanent housing and
homeownership to assisted living.
Housing and Homelessness Collaborative Efforts
Northampton Housing Partnership
Northampton has an active housing partnership (since 1990) that also serves as the
City’s fair housing committee. The Partnership advocates for affordable rental and
homeownership units by working with non-profit agencies, private developers and
others to create and preserve affordable housing. To actively further fair housing
access and opportunity, it continues to work closely with the Massachusetts Fair
Housing Center.
This past year, the Northampton Housing Partnership implemented a grant it
received to conduct a Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan. Funding was
secured ($35,000) from the Community Preservation Committee. Karen Sunnarborg
was selected as a consultant and has been working diligently since May of 2009. The
plan is in its final stages of creation and adoption as of this writing. The
comprehensive document (the first strategic housing plan since 1986) will be utilized
to guide policy and CDBG and CPA expenditure decision making. The plan
provides estimates of current and anticipated housing needs, specifically for low and
moderate income residents for 5 - 10 years and strives to meet the requirements of a
Housing Production Plan for submission to the State. Much of the data collected for
this effort informed the creation of the new 5 Year Consolidated Plan completed in
the spring of 2010.
By official City Charter, the Housing Partnership oversees funding
recommendations for CDBG housing activities and reviews all applications made to
Year 26 CAPER Page 8 of 33
the City’s housing draw down fund. Funds have been scarce due to the Senior
Center debt repayment obligation.
Next Step Collaborative
The Next Step Collaborative is the monthly gathering of all housing and homeless
service providers in the City. This group, active since 1994, is charged with the
creation and sustenance of a coordinated and comprehensive care delivery system
for the City’s low and moderate-income individuals and families, with specific focus
on the homeless. Facilitated by the City’s Senior Housing and Community
Development Planner/CDBG Administrator, providers come together each month
to share information about services provided, service gaps, trends, and identify
issues that need attention. This venue guarantees that all participants are aware of
existing resources and gives agency staff the opportunity to check in with each other,
as well as keeping the City informed about housing needs in the community.
Three County Continuum of Care
The City of Northampton’s Community and Economic Development Office
continued to serve as the lead agency for the Three County Continuum of Care,
which administers Federal McKinney Vento homelessness funds for the region.
The Continuum includes all of the communities in Franklin, Hampshire and
Hampden with the exception of the City of Springfield, which receives its own
McKinney award. Last year was the 13th year the City has successfully applied for
and secured 1.4 million dollars for annually for 14 programs. Continuum meetings
are held monthly.
Western Massachusetts Network to End Homelessness
CEDO staff participated in the leadership and implementation of the State funded
Regional Network this past year. The eighteen month grant began early in 2009 and
will conclude at the end of September 2010. The State Inter-Agency on Housing and
Homeless awarded over 8 million dollars for the creation of regional networks to
coordinate homeless activities and distribute funding through pilot projects. The
Housing and Community Development Planner served on the 14 member
Steering Committee, the 40 member Leadership Council and attended Individual
Services Committee meetings to maximize service delivery.
Western Massachusetts Inter-Agency Council on Housing and Homelessness
CEDO staff also participated in monthly meetings of the WMIC. This is a
gathering of representatives of State agencies, primary homeless service providers
and representatives of the 3 Continuums of Care. This body initiated the Housing
First/REACH pilot project in Springfield and has spawned extensive regional
collaboration. One of the larger efforts involved the hiring of a consultant to respond
Year 26 CAPER Page 9 of 33
to the RFP for the Regional Networks which garnered 1.2 million for Western
Massachusetts. The primary purpose of WMIC is to identify barriers to effective
service delivery that result from the lack State agency coordination, and work to
break down those barriers. The group was ably facilitated by Liz Sullivan, the
Western Mass. Regional Director for the Department of Mental Health.
Public Housing
The City of Northampton has a long-term working relationship with the
Northampton Housing Authority (NHA). CDBG funds have been committed to the
NHA by the City for various public housing improvements over the past several
years.
The Mayor of Northampton appoints four of the five NHA commissioners, with the
fifth being appointed by the Governor. The NHA provides the City with copies of
its annual report and was involved in the consultation process undertaken for
development of the 2010 Consolidated Plan and the Year 27 Action Plan.
The City’s CDBG Consolidated Plan and the NHA’s five-year plan are designed to
be consistent in their approach to meeting the housing and social service needs of the
City’s very low, low, and moderate income population. The City’s Housing and
Community Development Planner/CDBG Administrator worked with the
Housing Authority this past year to coordinate the goals and objectives of the
City’s CDBG Consolidated Plan and annual Action Plan with the NHA’s five year
strategy.
Public Housing Unit Condition and Planned Improvements
Unit Condition
The Northampton Housing Authority (NHA) rates the general condition of its public
housing stock as good. Over the last several years renovations to Northampton’s
public housing units have improved security lighting, sewer and plumbing systems,
and landscaping at Hampshire Heights, and the ventilation, intercom system, and
common area lighting at Salvo House. Various Chapter 705 housing sites have been
renovated, and a 705 site on Willow Street that was demolished in 1995 has been
rebuilt. Most recently the NHA developed six (6) units of special needs housing for
MA Department of Mental Health clients on Grove Street (McColgan Apartments)
and continues planning activities for development of housing on Burts Pit Road in
partnership with the MA Department of Mental Retardation (now known as the
Department of Developmental Services).
Year 26 CAPER Page 10 of 33
Improvements
The following improvements and actions were completed in 2009-2010 program
year:
Florence Heights
• Community Room upgrades 2009-2010
• Masonry repairs, landscaping improvements 2009-2010
• Metal gate repairs and painting 2009
• Cellar stairwell improvements 2009
• Painting (all buildings) 2009-2010
• Heating / furnace replacement (Ongoing)
Tobin Elderly Apartments
• Install automatic door openers 2010
Cahill Apartments
• Roof Replacement 2009
• Drainage improvements 2010
Salvo House
• New freezer for meals on wheels program located at Salvo House 2009
• Automatic door openers (accessibility improvements) 2010
• Installation of security cameras 2010
McDonald House
• Accessibility improvements 2009
• Community Room upgrades 2009-2010
• Install high-efficiency hot water heaters 2009-2010
• Installation of security cameras 2010
Grace House
• Construction of a storage shed 2009
Salvo House / Senior Center Ground Lease
Specifically, CDBG provided $5,000 to the Housing Authority for kitchen
improvements at Salvo House, a 192 unit building housing elderly and young
disabled in the downtown.
Fair Housing
The City of Northampton and the Northampton Housing Partnership, in its role as
Fair Housing Committee, continued to work with the Mass Fair Housing Center,
Year 26 CAPER Page 11 of 33
formally the Housing Discrimination Project of Holyoke during Program Year 26.
The focus of the CDBG contract was to develop strategies to remove barriers to fair
housing. An on-going issue effecting fair housing choice within Northampton
remains cost and availability. The inability to utilize a Section 8 voucher in
Northampton due to the high fair market rent rates continues to plaque the
community. Federal Congressional action is required to adjust the Standard
Metropolitan Statistical Area to better reflect current market dynamics.
The following activities were conducted by the Mass Fair Housing Center (MFHC)
over the course of the CDBG program year, reaching 113 city residents:
Processed housing discrimination complaints (13)
Assisted households with foreclosure prevention assistance (3)
Conducted 3 Anti-Predatory Lending Workshops in conjunction with First
Time Homebuyer workshops and Valley CDC at Florence Savings Bank (74)
Conducted staff training at Safe Passage (Domestic Violence Program) (5)
Conducted staff and participant training at Grace House (Recovery program
for women and their children) (9)
Did Outreach to Casa Latina and the Northampton Housing Authority
Held its 4th Annual Fair Housing and Civil Rights Regional Conference with 8
workshops on Fair Housing, Predatory Lending, Foreclosure Litigation
Strategies, Removing Barriers to Fair Housing, Community Advocacy, CORI
and Disability Issues, Healthy Homes and Environmental Justice and Civil
Rights Investigation. (Directors from Safe Passage and Casa Latina
participated on panels).
Other CDBG Activities
Public Infrastructure Improvements / Year 26
Installation of bike racks was completed at the Northampton High School and
Bridge Street School in downtown Northampton.
Economic Development Activities / Year 26
River Valley Market (RVM) – In Program Year 23 River Valley Market Inc. received
funding for pre-development activities related to the construction of a natural /
organic food store co-op. The RVM co-op opened on April 30, 2008 and created 99
new jobs 39 jobs were created/retained; an additional 23 were created/retained this
program year for the City’s low/moderate income residents.
Public Facility Improvements – Year 26
Due to unforeseen increases in the cost of the project, the contract for improvements
to the kitchen at NHA’s Salvo House was amended. The CDBG funds for Year 25
Year 26 CAPER Page 12 of 33
allocated for the project were re-programmed in Year 26 for accessibility
improvements at NHA properties and for the purchase of a “flash-freezer” to freeze
prepared meals for distribution through the Elder Services Senior Meals program. A
three door freezer allowing a limited number of meals on the premises of the
Salvo House was installed and operational in January 2010. The balance of the
CDBG funds will be used in Year 2010 for accessibility improvement at NHA
properties.
Improvements were made to Pulaski Park in downtown Northampton to allow for
underground utility infrastructure. Conduit was placed for the future burying of
overhead utility lines bisecting Pulaski Park to improve the park environment for
downtown residents (particularly low income residents of the adjacent South St.
Apartments who use the park and its play structure as their “backyard”) and to
leverage additional future improvements to the park from an adjacent economic
development project (hotel development).
Renovations were made at the James House, a municipally owned building being
converted into a community learning center. In Program Year 2009, Phase 1
renovations included demolition of the basement holding cell, construction of the
children’s class room, NCEC/ DTA offices, and Phase 2 ramp construction. The
Center for New Americans began offering English language classes and NCEC
began outreach and case management services in this program year. The facility
served 62 individuals 58 of whom are low/mod income. Phase 2 construction will
be completed in Program Year 2010.
Public Facility, Economic Development and Affordable Housing - Environment and Energy
Initiatives – Year 26
Senior Center – The Northampton Senior Center received US Green Building
Council designation as a Silver-rated Leadership in Environment and Energy Design
(LEED) building upon completion of the City’s LEED submission in September 2008.
A construction site within the urban core, public transportation availability, bike
racks, wastewater management, low energy smart lighting as well as geo thermal
heating and cooling all contribute to the Silver rating from the US Green Building
Council in December of 2008.
River Valley Market Food Co Op – RVM is a LEED-certified green building by the
US Green Building Council.
Affordable Housing 46 School Street – Valley CDC’s School Street project has been
rated as an Energy Star project.
COA Home Repair Program - Work specifications include Energy Star rated
appliances and construction materials whenever feasible.
James House Community Learning Center – Phase 1 construction included
Year 26 CAPER Page 13 of 33
installation of energy efficiency improvements and photovoltaic panels.
The CEDO Director participated on a Northampton Chamber of Commerce
committee developing a program to educate, assist, and recognize businesses for
implementing energy efficiency and sustainable business practices.
CDBG-R
CDBG-R provided a total of $201,513 in a one-time allocation of funds to the City of
Northampton. A Substantial Amendment was made to the Year 25 CDBG Action
Plan for use of these funds.
The City of Northampton is using the funds to renovate the James House, a
municipally owned building formerly occupied by the Hampshire County Juvenile
Court, for conversion into the Community Learning Center. The Learning Center
will provide for ABE/ESOL classes, family literacy, early childhood programming,
college transition courses, job and skills training, educational testing, and a variety of
support services to be co-located under one roof in a central location in downtown
Northampton accessible by public transportation. Rehabilitation work will include
new heating and electrical systems, design and construction of an accessibility ramp,
lead paint abatement, and general carpentry work. Ten percent (10%) of the CDBG-
R funds will be used for planning and administration.
Phase 1 renovations to the James House were completed in October of 2009 using
$40,000 in privately donated funding. Phase 1 included demolition of the former
holding cells in the basement and construction of offices, a meeting room, and a
child care classroom on the first floor. Energy efficiency improvements and
photovoltaic panels were installed on the building using a grant from the
Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC). Phase 2 renovations using CDBG-
R, CDBG, EDI, MTC, and private donations began in November of 2009. The new
accessible ramp and sidewalk was completed in June 2010. Design specifications and
bid documents for the remaining interior construction work was completed in June
2010. Contracting and construction of the Phase 2 work is expected to be completed
in Program Year 2010. $48,623 for the ramp and $16,387 for administration in
CDBG-R funds were expended as of June 30, 2010. The Center for New Americans
began offering English language classes and Northampton Community Education
Consortium (NCEC) began outreach and case management services in this program
year. The facility served 62 individuals; 58 of whom are low/mod income.
LEVERAGING RESOURCES
Federal, state and private resources within the City of Northampton fluctuate from
year to year. At every opportunity the City of Northampton seeks to leverage
Year 26 CAPER Page 14 of 33
CDBG funds with other federal, state, local and private resources (including
previously mentioned City CPA funds).
City CDBG, CDBG-R and EDI funded projects that leveraged other funding sources
in Year 26 include:
Name of
Project
Funding
Origin
Funding
Source/
Program
Amount
committed
Amount
expended this
program year
Village at
Hospital Hill
Phase II
Federal EDI $196,000 $196,000
Senior Center
(Project
completed)
Federal
Fundraising
*CDBG
Local
$1,400,000
$400,000
$344,581
James House
Learning
Center
Federal CDBG-R $172,362 $48,623
Federal CDBG $17,868 $13,084
Federal HUD EDI $90,000 $13,400
Local Smith College
$20,000 $20,000
Local Home Depot $20,000 $20,000
Regional
Foundation
Beveridge
Foundation
$20,000 0
*Senior Center/ prior program years:
CDBG $360,061 – Year 24
CDBG $352,821 – Year 25
Other Housing
Projects/Units
Funding
Origin
Funding
Source/
Program
Amount
Anticipated
Amount
Received
Northampton
Housing
Authority
Federal Public
Housing
Subsidies
$377,241 $377,241
Federal ARRA /
Capital
Projects
$182,526 $182,526
Federal Capital Fund
$144,198 $144,198
Federal Section 8 $3,480,932 $3,480,932
Federal Section 8 Mod
Rehab
$163,683 $163,683
Year 26 CAPER Page 15 of 33
State Public
Housing
Subsidies
$383,309 $383,309
State Mass Rental
Vouchers
$34,000 $34,000
State Mix
Population
Grant
$31,200 $31,200
State Modernization
Program
$132,400 $132,400
Federal Veterans
Supportive
Housing
Program
Section 8
Rental
Vouchers
$324,929 $324,929
Meadowbrook
Apartments
222 units
State Low Income
Housing Tax
Credits
$6.5 Million
Equity
40-Year
Affordability
*tbd
Village at
Hospital Hill /
Rental
subsidies
Federal Section 8
*tbd
*to be determined- information requested, not yet received.
Public Service
Sub-
Recipients
Funding
Origin
Funding Source/
Program
Amount
Anticipated
Amount
Received
Casa Latina Federal Northampton CDBG $12,435 $12,435
Community Action * $22,000 $22,000
Private United Way * $35,000 $35,000
*support services for all
Hampshire County
CHD /Big
Brothers Big
Sisters
Federal Northampton CDBG
$5,000 $5,000
State MA Service Alliance
$7,500 $2,490
Private United Way $7,000 $10,000
Private Fundraising $30,000 $24,500
Private Donations $7,500 $13,200
CHD / SRO
Outreach
Private United Way $36,000 $36,000
Year 26 CAPER Page 16 of 33
Private Shelter Sunday $4,000 $4,000
Highland Valley Elder
Services
$5,000 $5,000
Valley CDC $3,000 $3,000
Center for
New
Americans
Federal Northampton CDBG $7,000 $7,000
Federal CSBG Community
Action
$8,500 $8,500
State DOE – ABE $6,250 $6,250
Community
Action / First
Call for Help
Federal Northampton CDBG $3,000 $3,000
Federal CSBG $16,121 $16,121
Private United Way $7,635 $7,635
Community
Action /
Generation Q
Federal Northampton CDBG $5,000 $5,000
Federal CSBG $21,500 $21,500
State DMH $63,314 $63,314
BAGLY $6,512 $6,512
State DPH / Safe Spaces $10,660 $10,660
Freedom
Center
Federal Northampton CDBG $2,500 $2,000
Private Resist $3,000 $3,000
Private Donation $750 $750
Literacy
Project
Federal Northampton CDBG $8,000 $8,000
Private Women’s Home
Missionary Union
$4,000 $4,000
Private United Bank $500 $1,000
MANNA Federal Northampton CDBG $2,500 $2,500
Private Shelter Sunday $7,500 $7,500
Private Donations $2,000 $2,000
Private Project Bread $2,000 $2,000
Private Rice Bowl ( Catholic
Charities)
$1,000 $1,000
Private United Way $1,000 $1,000
Private Local Churches $5,700 $5,700
Private Fundraising $1,000 $1,000
Mass Fair
Housing
Federal Northampton CDBG $2,500 $2,500
Federal HUD $275,000 $275,000
State Mass Bar Foundation $40,000 $40,000
Year 26 CAPER Page 17 of 33
Service Net /
Cot Shelter
Federal Northampton CDBG $15,355 $15,355
Federal ESG $4,373 $4,373
State and
Local
$49,884 $49,884
Private $30,173 $30,173
Deferred Payment
Loans
$9,999 $10,000
Service Net /
Grove Street
Federal Northampton CDBG $17,000 $17,000
Federal ESG $55,070 $55,070
State and
Local
$162,879 $162,879
Private $97,072 $97,072
Survival
Center
Federal Northampton CDBG $15,000 $15,000
Federal EFSP Grant $8,700 $8,347
Local City of Easthampton $4,500 $5,000
Local Grant Income $20,044 $42,000
Private Project Bread $8,000 $8,000
Private Civic Business $18,000 $35,170
Private Religious $10,000 $12,245
Private Includes Capital
Campaign Funds
$597,738 $597,738
Private United Way/
Donor Choice
$32,966
$10,000
$52,226
$0
Private Open House/Events $17,000 $11,675
Private Misc. Grants $35,500 $17,815
Private Individual Donations $41,000 $239,469
Private T-Shirts $60
Private Interest and Capital
Gains
$6,084
Private Misc. Income $1,881
Private Schools $2,593
Private Capital Campaign $294,704
OTHER
Northampton
Housing
Partnership
Local /
State
City CPA Funds $ 35,000 $17,500
McKinney
Vento
Funding
Federal Dedicated HMIS
project
$80,080 $80,080
Franklin Hampshire $100,527 $100,527
Year 26 CAPER Page 18 of 33
Permanent Housing
Franklin Hampshire
Transitional Housing
and Mobile Outreach
$242,300 $242,300
Paradise Pond Family
Apartments
$22,312 $22,312
Soldier On Transitional
Housing
$72,450 $72,450
Vets Village $51,675 $51,675
Community Preservation Act
In November 2004 the residents of Northampton voted by ballot referendum to
adopt the Massachusetts Community Preservation Act (CPA). The CPA allows
communities to create a local Community Preservation Fund to raise money through
a surcharge of up to 3% of the real estate tax levy on real property for affordable
housing, open space protection and recreation, and historic preservation. The act
also creates a significant state match of up to 100% of the locally raised CPA funds.
CPA monies have been allocated in the City for acquisition, preservation, and
creation and restoration of affordable housing. Funds have also been disbursed for
the support of housing activities, including first-time homebuyer assistance and
foreclosure prevention services.
The Northampton Community Preservation Committee (CPC) was formed in March
2007 to make recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on how to utilize
CPA funds. Since its creation, the CPC and the City has awarded a total of
$5,506,004 to forty-three different (43) projects. This new local resource has been
used to provide local cash match dollars at a time when local CDBG dollars are
allocated to paying the debt service on the Senior Center.
The following CPA projects awarded in 2009 address priority needs listed within
the CDBG Consolidated Plan and Year 26 Action Plan:
Habitat for Humanity/ Construction of Five Homes - Garfield Avenue:
$60,000 for infrastructure work at the site.
City of Northampton/ Central Services Department - Grove Street Inn :
$36,950 for rehabilitation of 3 bathrooms, installation of storm/screen
windows and weatherization of the food pantry.
Institutional Structure
The City re-organized the institutional structure responsible for the CDBG
Year 26 CAPER Page 19 of 33
Program administration in July of 2009. A new department, separate from the
Office of Planning and Development was created. The Community and Economic
Development Office (CEDO) is comprised of a Director of Community and
Economic Development, the Housing and Community Development Planner/CDBG
Administrator, and the CDBG/SHP Administrative Assistant.
CDBG, the McKinney Supportive Housing Program and other housing and
community development programs are components of the new Community and
Economic Development Office. The Housing and Community Development
Planner/CDBG Administrator is responsible for overall management and
coordination of housing and community development activities and services
outlined in the Consolidated Plan and annual Action Plan. She oversees all housing
and community development contracts and monitors all housing and community
development funded activities, working with City Departments, boards and
commissions (Department of Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Council on Aging,
Housing Partnership), City Hall staff (Conservation/Land Use Planner, Treasurer’s
Office, Assessor’s Office) and with community based development organizations,
nonprofit and for-profit housing developers, and community nonprofit public
services and anti-poverty organizations. The CEDO director is responsible for
overall management and coordination of economic development activities and some
public facility activities. The Community Development Assistant is responsible for
contract implementation, reporting and financial management.
Sub- Recipient Monitoring
The City’s Community and Economic Development (CEDO) Office is responsible for
overall management and coordination of activities and services outlined within the
annual Action Plan.
On-site programmatic and fiscal monitoring of CDBG activities takes place regularly
and includes the following:
• Notification Letter
• On-site monitoring visit and interview with program/activity personnel
• Review of program/activity documentation and financial records with
subrecipient personnel using City of Northampton Subrecipient Monitoring
Review Form,
• Monitoring Follow-Up Letter
Monitoring visits are undertaken with a focus on assisting the subrecipient to build
capacity; better reach their program goals and target population within the City;
achieve improved compliance with CDBG regulations and requirements; and
provide an opportunity to receive additional technical assistance from City CDBG
staff. Monitoring visits were completed on five CDBG funded programs during
2009. The remaining visits are planned for July – September of 2010.
Year 26 CAPER Page 20 of 33
A review of all current year CDBG projects was completed on a quarterly basis
using a standardized quarterly report form. This review focused on federal
regulatory reporting requirements and performance measures as referenced within
sub- recipient contracts and scope of services. Quarterly accomplishments were
reported in HUD’s Integrated Disbursement Information System (IDIS) after their
review.
Affordable Housing Monitoring
CEDO has completed an affordable housing monitoring matrix for all affordable
housing projects funded with block grant resources over the past 20 years. The City
completes “desk monitoring reviews” of all projects at least every three years and
“on site monitoring reviews” of all projects at least every seven years. Monitoring
includes ensuring affordable housing units are occupied by income eligible
households and that affordable rents are in place in the case of assisted rental units.
Anti Poverty Strategy
The City of Northampton is the county seat for Hampshire County Massachusetts and is
the service delivery nexus for many low and moderate-income persons and families.
The CDBG program is the City’s primary resource for assisting low and moderate-
income households in Northampton and is leveraged with other federal and state
resources within the jurisdiction. The City undertook its CDBG program for 2009-2010
in consultation with the following local agencies and organizations that serve the low
and moderate-income population of the City of Northampton and Hampshire County.
Community Action of the Franklin, Hampshire and N. Quabbin Regions
Valley Community Development Corporation Inc.
United Way of Hampshire County Inc.
Northampton Housing Authority
Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity Inc.
ServiceNet, Inc.
Center for Human Development Inc.
Department of Transitional Assistance
Regional Employment Board/Career Center
Northampton Chamber of Commerce
Hampshire Community Action Commission (HCAC) had served as the CAP agency for
the County until May of 2005 when the organization ceased operations. The Hampshire
County catchment area has been incorporated into the Franklin County CAP agency.
An office and many program components are present in Northampton. Community
Action staff are actively involved in the Regional Network to End Homelessness, the
Three County Continuum of Care, COSA (Hampshire County Council of Social
Agencies) and are Northampton CDBG sub-grantees.
Year 26 CAPER Page 21 of 33
By insuring coordination, providing direct funding through CDBG and the Community
Preservation Program and by supporting requests to other funding sources, the City
worked to reduce the numbers of households at or below the poverty level.
The strategy to reduce poverty in the City was approached from multiple angles
providing an overlapping service and opportunity net that included affordable housing,
social and supportive services, alternative educational/career development pathways,
and job creation.
DETAILED PROJECT UPDATE SUMMARIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS
INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS
Bike Rack Installation - HUD #0674 / Installation of bike racks in eligible areas
Priority Need: High – Street and Sidewalk Improvements
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Sustainable neighborhood
Performance Access/ Improvement to Streetscapes
Measure: Enhanced pedestrian safety, reduce vehicular use
Expenditure: CDBG $ 2,064.28
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: 16 bike racks were installed; twelve (12) at Northampton High
School and four (4) at the Bridge Street School
PUBLIC FACILITIES
Senior Center Project Delivery Costs - HUD # 0546 / Project delivery costs, project
management costs, legal costs, material testing
Priority Need: High - Senior Center
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Year 26 CAPER Page 22 of 33
Project Outcome: Availability of a public facility (senior center)
Performance
Measure: Construction of a full service senior center
Expenditure: CDBG $ 0
Leveraged Funds: City construction financing $ 1,400,000
Private fundraising $ 400,000 (estimated target)
Accomplishment: A full service senior center was identified as a high priority need
in May 2000. Construction began in the spring of 2006 and was
completed in September 2008. It is a fully operational center,
with easy access, parking and extensive programmatic and
socialization opportunities. Additional outreach to occur to
neighboring subsidized elderly housing. Some additional
landscaping remains to be done.
Senior Center Debt Service - HUD #0596 / Principal and interest payments on debt
service
Priority Need: High - Senior Center
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of a public facility (senior center)
Performance
Measure: Third installment of the City’s debt service for construction
Expenditure: CDBG $ 344,581
Leveraged Funds: City construction bond $ 1,400,000
Private fundraising $ 400,000 (estimated target)
Accomplishment: A full service senior center has been identified as a high priority
need for the City beginning in May 2000. Construction of the
senior center began in spring 2006. Construction completed in
September 2008.
Year 26 CAPER Page 23 of 33
Pulaski Park Infrastructure - HUD #0628 / Installation of underground utilities
Priority Need: Medium – Park and Recreation Facility Improvements
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of a safer neighborhood park.
Performance
Measure: Completion of utility installation
Expenditure: CDBG $ 85,780
Leverage Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: Conduit and utility pads/handholds installation was completed.
The park serves the downtown area (LMA) and is highly
utilized by the residents of an adjacent subsidized apartment
building.
James House Ramp - HUD #0656 / Renovation of a municipally owned building to
create a community learning center to provide ABE/ESOL, college readiness, job
training, family literacy and family support services in a one-stop center accessible
by public transportation
Priority Need: Medium – Other Public Facilities
Priority Objective: Create Economic Opportunities
Project Outcome: Availability of a public facility (community learning center)
Performance 1 public facility will be renovated to provide ABE/ESOL, college
Measure: readiness, job training, family literacy, and family support
services in a one-stop center accessible by public transportation
for purposes of increasing accessibility to economic opportunity.
Expenditure: $13,084.50
Leveraged Funds: CDBG-R Stimulus Funds $172,362
Year 26 CAPER Page 24 of 33
CDBG Funds $17,868
HUD EDI $90,000
Beveridge Foundation $20,000
Smith College $20,000
Home Depot $20,000
Accomplishment: Phase 1 renovations completed September 30, 2009.
Renovations included demolition of the basement holding cells,
construction of classrooms, multi-use meeting
room, Northampton Community Education Collaborative and
DTA offices. Phase 2 renovations completed this program year
include a ramp for accessibility.
62 people served, 58 were low/mod households.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Micro Business Development - HUD # 0658 / Valley CDC micro business
development program providing assistance to eligible micro enterprises; business
plan development, marketing and access to capital
Priority Need: High – Micro Business Development
Project Objective: Create economic opportunity
Project Outcome: Sustainability of viable communities through economic
development activities
Performance Provide technical assistance to up to 20 individuals interested in
Measure: creating or growing their businesses
Expenditure: CDBG $ 20,000
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: The micro business program provides essential assistance to
micro business start-ups and existing businesses seeking to
expand. 16 were served.
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
First Time Homebuyer Program - HUD #0653 / Valley CDC program offering first
time homebuyer assistance and direct referrals to HOME assisted units available for
homeownership
Year 26 CAPER Page 25 of 33
Priority Need: High – Housing Support Services
Project Objective: Provide decent affordable housing
Project Outcome: Availability of affordable homeownership housing
Performance
Measure: To serve 45 households.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 20,000
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: The Valley CDC homebuyer program provides assistance and
direct referrals to first time homebuyers for HOME assisted
units in Northampton and the region. Providing education and
referrals to first time homebuyers increases the likelihood of
success in securing decent safe and affordable housing.
64 households assisted.
Council on Aging (COA) Home Repair Program Administration - HUD # 0684 /
Administrative costs including salaries and recording fees related to the Council on
Aging home repair program
Priority Need: High – Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation and Repair
Project Objective: Provide decent affordable housing
Project Outcome: Program operation to enable elderly to remain in their homes
and rehabilitation of existing housing stock.
Performance Staff capacity to provide and oversee 3-4 loans and 5-6 grants.
Measure:
Expenditure: CDBG $17,263.18
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: Program was successfully administered and seven projects were
completed during the reporting period allowing elder
homeowners to remain independent and in their homes.
Year 26 CAPER Page 26 of 33
COA Home Repair Grant - HUD #0683/ Home repair grants provided to elders as
part of the COA home repair program
Priority Need: High – Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation and Repair
Project Objective: Provide decent affordable housing
Project Outcome: Rehabilitation of existing housing stock and maintaining
affordability of homeownership housing
Performance
Measure: 5-6 grants.
Expenditure: CDBG # 0683- $1,500
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Accomplishment: One (1) homeowner received a grant for minor repairs
addressing health safety and code issues. Grants up to $1,500
were available.
COA Home Repair Deferred Payment Loans - HUD ##0676; #0677; #0680; #0681;
#0682: #0685 / Home repair deferred payment loans provided to elders as part of
the COA home repair program
Priority Need: High – Homeowner Housing Rehabilitation and Repair
Project Objective: Provide decent affordable housing
Project Outcome: Affordability of homeownership housing
Performance
Measure: 3-4 Loans.
Expenditure: CDBG #0676 - $8,000
#0677 - $6,200
#0680 - $7,995
#0681- $5,000
#0682 - $7,850
#0685 - $2,375
Leveraged Funds: $ 0
Year 26 CAPER Page 27 of 33
Accomplishment: The COA home repair program assisted six (6) elders with
maintaining their homes and remaining independent. Low
interest (2.50%) deferred payment loans up to $8,000 were
available for the repair of major building systems and the
correction of code issues. Clients that presented during the
program year had work that required a higher dollar amount
than could be covered by a grant. Therefore, more loans than
grants were administered.
PUBLIC SERVICES
Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program - HUD 0660/ A mentoring program
designed to serve low / mod income children focusing on self esteem issues,
addressing isolation and improving educational and social success
Priority Need: High – Youth Programs
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of youth services
Performance
Measure: To serve 30 Northampton youth and their families.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 5,000
Leveraged Funds: Mass Service Alliance $ 2,490
Fundraising $ 24,500
United Way $ 10,000
Individual Donors $ 13,200
Accomplishment: Program successfully served 30 low income children and their
families. Recruitment done at Hampshire and Florence Heights
and through the school guidance counselors.
Casa Latina Bridges for Latinos - HUD #0659 / Outreach, education, advocacy, case
management and service referrals for low and moderate income Latino households
in Northampton.
Year 26 CAPER Page 28 of 33
Priority Need: High – Services for Special Needs Populations
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Create a suitable living environment
Performance To serve 200 members of the Latino community and facilitate
Measure: service linkages.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 12,435
Leveraged Funds: United Way Hampshire County $ 35,000
Community Action $ 22,000
Accomplishment: 231 persons were served through this grass roots, door to door
outreach, information and referral program.
SRO Outreach Project - HUD #0661 / Supportive services including a food pantry,
advocacy and case management for the City’s single room occupancy (SRO)
residents
Priority Need: High – Housing Support; Basic Needs
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of housing support services
Performance To provide housing stabilization and outreach services
Measure: to 185 residents of the community’s SRO’s
Expenditure: CDBG $ 18,000
Leveraged Funds: United Way $ 36,000
Shelter Sunday $ 4,000
Highland Valley Elder Services $ 5,000
Valley CDC $ 3,000
Accomplishment: The SRO Outreach Coordinator served 491 residents this year.
Year 26 CAPER Page 29 of 33
Center for New Americans Computer Skills and Education Classes HUD #0662 /
Basic computer skills and employment assistance to immigrant children and adults
Priority Need: High – Skills training and development
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Increased sense of connection in community
Performance
Measure: To serve 35 individuals.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 7,000
Leveraged Funds: CSBG Community Action $ 8,500
DOE - ABE $ 6,250
Accomplishment: The program served 45 immigrants this year, helping them
improve their language skills and increase their educational
and employment opportunities.
Community Action Generation Q - HUD #0664 / Weekly support and education
groups for GLBTQ youth, youth of color, and their allies
Priority Need: High – Youth Services
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability and access to local services; academic assistance
Performance To serve 20 at-risk youth.
Measure:
Expenditure: CDBG $ 5,000
Leveraged Funds: DMH $ 63,314
CSBG $ 21,500
BAGLY $ 6,512
Safe Spaces / DPH $10,660
Accomplishment: With increased outreach and more events to participate in, this
year 103 youth were served.
Year 26 CAPER Page 30 of 33
Mental Health Access Project - HUD #0639 / One to one counseling assistance to
persons at risk of or suffering from mental illness
Priority Need: High – Access to mental health care
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of health care
Performance
Measure: To serve 600 at risk or experiencing mental illness.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 2,000
Leveraged Funds: Resist $ 3,000
Donation $ 750
Accomplishment: 301 persons served. Program did not expend all allocated
funding.
Manna Soup Kitchen - HUD # 0667 / Free meals three days per week provided year
round in downtown Northampton through the efforts of Manna and Edwards
Church.
Priority Need: High – Basic needs
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of basic services
Performance
Measure: To serve community meals to 150 low income residents.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 2,500
Leveraged Funds: Project Bread $ 2,000
Local Churches $ 5,700
Shelter Sunday $ 7,500
Catholic Charities $ 1,000
United Way $ 1,000
Year 26 CAPER Page 31 of 33
Fundraising $ 1,000
Accomplishment: Due to increased need in the community, 563 persons
were served.
Massachusetts Fair Housing Center - HUD # 0668/ Outreach and enforcement
activities and other services to eliminate obstacles to securing housing
Priority Need: High – Housing Support Services
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Accessibility of housing
Performance
Measure: To conduct workshops, agency trainings and process housing
discrimination complaints of Northampton residents.
Expenditure: CDBG $2,500
Leveraged Funds: Mass Bar Foundation $ 40,000
Federal funds $ 275,000
Accomplishment: This program addressed impediments to fair housing choice in
Northampton; 113 persons served.
Service Net Grove Street Inn/ HUD # 0669/ Staff and facility funding for the Grove
Street Inn the City’s homeless shelter for individuals
Priority Need: High – Housing Support Services
High – Preservation of the Existing Sheltering System
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of basic housing
Performance To provide 115 individuals with an evening meal, overnight
Measure: shelter and some case management services.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 17,000
Year 26 CAPER Page 32 of 33
Leveraged Funds: State Funds $ 162,879
ESG Grant $ 55,070
Private Funds $ 97,072
Accomplishment: This allocation provides staff capacity to administer the
homeless shelter for individuals that operates year round.
132 people were served.
Service Net Interfaith Cot Shelter /HUD # 0670 / Staff funding for the City’s cold
weather shelter which operates November to April each year
Priority Need: High – Housing Support Services
High – Preservation of the Existing Sheltering System
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of basic housing
Performance To provide an evening meal, overnight shelter and breakfast in a
Measure: seasonal program operating during winter months to 225
homeless individuals.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 15,355
Leveraged Funds: ESG Grant $ 4,373
State and Local Funds $ 49,884
Private Funds $ 30,173
DPL $ 10,000
Accomplishment: This funding allocation creates staff capacity to operate the
winter emergency shelter.
269 persons served.
Community Action First Call for Help HUD # 0663 / Information and referral
services to callers in need of social services.
Priority Need: High – Basic Needs
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Year 26 CAPER Page 33 of 33
Project Outcome: Availability of basic services
Performance To provide I&R services to 400 phone inquiries.
Measure:
Expenditure: CDBG $ 3,000
Leveraged Funds: CSBG $ 16,121
United Way $ 7,635
Accomplishment: This program provides information and referral services to
callers in need of assistance with accessing community
resources. 666 calls were received and service linkages made.
The Literacy Project GED Scholarships / HUD #066 Adult basic education and
counseling to students (age 16 and over) with transition to post-GED employment
and/or higher education
Priority Need: High – Skills Training and Development
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment; Create economic
Opportunities
Project Outcome: Access to higher education and / or gainful employment
Performance To provide services of a Transitions Counselor who assists
Measure: participants with other challenges being faced as they pursue
educational and employment achievement.
Expenditure: CDBG $ 8,000
Leveraged Funds: United Bank $ 1,000
Women’s Home Missionary Union $ 4,000
Accomplishment: This program served 41 people.
Northampton Survival Center Emergency Food Pantry / HUD # 0671 Food for
Hampshire County Residents
Year 26 CAPER Page 34 of 33
Priority Need: High – Emergency Food Assistance
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Availability of basic services
Performance To serve 2,100 with nutritional food supplies.
Measure:
Expenditure: CDBG $ 15,000
Leveraged Funds: State and Local Funds $ 5,000
Private Funds $ 597,738
United Way $ 52,226
Emergency Food & Shelter $ 8,347
Project Bread $ 8,000
Miscellaneous grants $ 42,000
Accomplishment: This highly utilized program distributes food to income eligible
households, as well as used clothing and makes service
referrals. 3,755 persons were served.
Planning and Administration HUD # 0672/ Planning expertise for the City of
Northampton including comprehensive and community development planning,
preservation of affordable housing, economic development, and planning and
administration of the CDBG program
Priority Need: High – CDBG Administration, Community Planning and Staff
Capacity
Project Objective: Create a suitable living environment
Project Outcome: Sustainability of communities and neighborhoods services
Expenditure: CDBG $ 146.952
Leveraged Funds: City budget funds, SHP local matching funds
Accomplishment: Planning and Administration activities during year 26
• City Sustainability Plan Implementation
• CDBG Project Management for Pulaski Park
• CDBG Project Management for Village Hill-Northampton State Hospital
Redevelopment
Year 26 CAPER Page 35 of 33
• CDBG-R Project Management for James House
• CDBG and SHP grant administration
• Next Step Collaborative
• Housing Partnership- Staff Support
• Housing Needs Study and Strategic Plan
• Ad Hoc Social Services Committee- Staff support
• Economic Development, Housing and Land Use Committee – staff support
• Economic Development Planning related to downtown, Fairgrounds, etc.
• Business Assistance programs
PUBLIC REVIEW & COMMENT
The City of Northampton published a legal notice in the Hampshire Daily Gazette
and posted this same notice at the Northampton City Clerk’s Office and on the web
at: northamptonma.gov/opd/cdbg on September 15, 2010. The legal notice
informed the public that the CDBG Consolidated Annual Performance and
Evaluation Report (CAPER) was available for public review and comment.
No comments were received.
SECTION THREE REPORTING
In FY10/Year 26 there were no CDBG, EDI or SHP construction projects that
exceeded $200,000 in CDBG/EDI/SHP funding and no Section 3 thresholds were
triggered. Summary reports are attached for CDBG and EDI funds received by the
City that were designated for construction projects. The City received $201,513 in
CDBG-R funding in FY10/Year 26. $181,362 of the CDBG-R project was allocated
towards the James House Community Learning Center Renovation Project. No
contracts exceeding $100,000 were awarded with CDBG-R funds in FY10. A Section
3 Summary report is attached for all construction related projects.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepared By:
Teri Anderson, Director, Community and Economic Development
Peg Keller, Housing and Community Development Planner/CDBG
Administrator
Cam Leon, Community Development Administrative Assistant