Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008 Department of Planning & Neighborhood Development Consolidated Strategy & Action PlanVirg Bernero, Mayor March 16, 2007 Chris Swope City Clerk City of Lansing 124 W. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48933 Dear Chris: DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT 316 N. CAPITOL AVENUE * LANSING, MI 48933-1234 • (517) 483-4040 • FAx: (517) 483-6036 DEVELOPMENT OFFICE 316 N. CAPITOL AVE., SUITE D-2 o � a n � C-) � � O As part of the Department of Housing and Urban Development guidelines, the City of Lansing is required to post our AVAILABILITY OF CONSOLIDATED STRATEGYAND PLAN SUBMISSION ACTION PLAN FOR 2008 at locations available to the public which includes the City of Lansing Clerk's Office. Would you please post the notice and make the document available for public review from March 19, 2007- April 19, 2007. Thank you for your time and cooperation. if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at ext. 4063. Sincerely, Doris M. Witherspoon Senior Planner Please recycle "Equal Opportunity Employer" t-M ".r ACTION PLAN July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2008 WIN Prepared for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development by the City of Lansing, Michigan Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development 316 N. Capitol Avenue Lansing, MI 48933-1234 NtafiOGul to1 *Third Program Year Z. 9191, ��a� Action Plan The CPMP Third Annual Action Plan includes the SF 424 and Narrative Responses to Action Plan questions that CDBG, HOME, HOPWA, and ESG grantees must respond to each year in order to be compliant with the Consolidated Planning Regulations. The Executive Summary narratives are optional. Narrative Responses Executive Summary The Executive Summary is required. Include the objectives and outcomes identified in the plan and an evaluation of past performance. Program Year 3 Action Plan Executive Summary: The City of Lansing Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development has been applying for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME and Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) for several years. The City is the lead organization administering these federal dollars received from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and has been successful in leveraging additional state and local resources to support grant funded activities. The FY 2008 Action Plan is the implementation plan for Year Three (3) of the City of Lansing's five (5) year Consolidated Plan. The proposed activities to be carried out in FY 2008, which begins July 1, 2007 and ends June 30, 2008 are based on needs, priorities, strategies and goals established in the Five Year Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission for the period 2005-2010. This annual plan is based on community development fund resources CDBG, HOME and ESG funds expected to be available in FY 2008. Again, anticipated goals are based on the availability of other sources of funding projected to be available during this time period to leverage the federal community development fund resources. The requisite information presented in the Action Plan is presented according to the final rule established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 24 CFR 91, Consolidated Submission for Community Planning and Development Programs. PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS CDBG Owner Rehab Program Includes loans and grants for rehabilitation of up to 75 owner occupied $ 1,052,787 housing units through City sponsored programs, and in conjunction with $350,000 (PI) affordable housing efforts sponsored by nonprofit housing corporations and $ 1,402,787 other State and Federal agencies. Includes funds to meet lead hazard reduction regulations in rehabilitated structures. Includes funds to assist in Third Program Year Action Plan Version 2.0 Jurisdiction 14f the rehabilitation of emergency and transitional housing facilities for the homeless. Includes support for Local Initiatives Support Corporation to provide technical assistance to nonprofit housing corporations. Includes loans and grants for weatherization of 20 owner occupied single-family units through City sponsored program. Includes loans to rehabilitate historic homes in conjunction with rehabilitation of the unit. Includes staff and other direct project costs associated with delivery of Community Development Block Grant, HOME, Emergency Shelter Grant and other State and Federal Programs. Includes building rent paid to City. Weatherization Includes financing of Energy Fitness Program sponsored by Urban Options $65,000 to benefit up to 220 low income households. Acquisition Includes maintenance and security of properties acquired through programs, $ 5,000 and activities related to acquisition, relocation and clearance of dilapidated structures. Public Improvements Includes general street, sidewalk, curb and gutter, street lighting, paving of $ 50,000 Gravel streets and other infrastructure improvements, as well as assistance in the payment of special assessments for income eligible owner/occupants or CDBG eligible areas in support of housing rehabilitation activities. Specific sites yet to be determined. Public Services (Limited to 15% of CDBG) Includes housing referral and counseling services, homeownership counseling $385,916 community policing, youth and senior programs, neighborhood clean-ups, food distribution (food bank services), health education or rape prevention education. P Economic Development Support for Microenterprise Loan Program to provide loans to eligible $150,000 microenterprise businesses and training and education for 50 new microenterprise businesses. Support for "Closing the Gap" program, a computer training and job placement program to benefit up to 80 participants. Support for other economic development initiatives including 5 facade improvements, 25 new jobs and neighborhood improvement. CDBG General Administration Includes staff and other costs associated with preparation of required $514,072 Consolidated Planning documents, environmental clearances, fair housing activities and citizen participation activities associated with the delivery of CDBG, HOME and other State and Federal Programs. Includes general administration costs associated with delivery of CDBG and other State and Federal Programs Includes indirect administrative costs and building rent paid to the city. Includes Fair Housing Initiatives. Total CDBG $2,572,776 PROPOSED HOME PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS HOME Owner Rehab Program Includes loans and grants for rehabilitation of owner occupied housing units. $26,604 Additional funding for this activity is available from previous years. Down Payment Assistance Funds provided to first-time homebuyers for down payment and closing costs. $100,000 The amount of down payment assistance is typically (6%) percent of the purchase price of the home. New Construction Includes funds for loans and grants for construction of up to 3 affordable $50,000 housing units. Third Program Year Action Plan 2 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction HOME Development Program Home funds allocated for housing developed in partnership with the City, including Supportive Housing Program (SHP) activities and possible refinancing of mortgages For HOME rehabilitation participants. 10 units estimated. Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) Operating Funds reserved at option of the City to provide operating funds to CHDO's utilizing HOME funds provided by the City and State to produce affordable housing in the community. CHDO Set -aside (15%) Home Program set -aside reserved for housing developed, sponsored, or owned by CHDOs in partnership with the City, 3 units estimated. HOME General Administration Includes staff and general administration costs to deliver HOME Program. Total HOME EMERGENCY SHELTER GRANT PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS Shelter Operation Funds provided to shelter providers to cover cost of maintenance, operations, insurance, utilities, and furnishings in shelter facilities. Total ESG General Questions $430,086 $43,000 $129,834 $86,039 $865,563 $94,802 $ 94,802 1. Describe the geographic areas of the jurisdiction (including areas of low income families and/or racial/minority concentration) in which assistance will be directed during the next year. Where appropriate, the jurisdiction should estimate the percentage of funds the jurisdiction plans to dedicate to target areas. 2. Describe the basis for allocating investments geographically within the jurisdiction (or within the EMSA for HOPWA) (91.215(a)(1)) during the next year and the rationale for assigning the priorities. 3. Describe actions that will take place during the next year to address obstacles to meeting underserved needs. 4. Identify the federal, state, and local resources expected to be made available to address the needs identified in the plan. Federal resources should include Section 8 funds made available to the jurisdiction, Low -Income Housing Tax Credits, and competitive McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act funds expected to be available to address priority needs and specific objectives identified in the strategic plan. Third Program Year Action Plan 3 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction Program Year 3 Action Plan General Questions response: The concentrations of low-income minority residents reside on the west and north sides of the Lansing community as well as scattered pockets in other parts of the City of Lansing. Assistance will continue to be provided to residents in the City of Lansing in CDBG eligible areas and to eligible citizends in non-CDBG eligible areas. In Program Year 3, the level of priority in terms of addressing the needs of the citizens was based on past practices as well as the needs idenitified by the community. High priority is given to working together with other agencies in support of citizen - led neighborhood revitalization programs with specific goals related to improving housing, crime reduction, youth development, business development or retention and improved health and safety. Housing Activities Housing activities continue to be a high priority in the city. Activities related to housing include moderate rehabilitation and weatherization of owner occupied housing units for very low and lowincome households. High priority will be given to assisting home owners in remediating lead hazards in housing occupied by households with children under the age of six. High priority is given to activities which will result in partnerships with nonprofit housing corporations and private businesses to provide home ownership opportunities to low and moderate income homebuyers including moderate rehabilitation and down payment assistance. and creation od a one -stop housing resource and education center. Moderate priority is given to providing low income households with special needs assistance through rehabilitation of housing units; including barrier free improvements, delivery of supportive services and some new construction. Moderate priority is given to addressing the housing and supportive service needs of the homeless. Low priority is given to historic preservation. Low priority is given to developing newly constructed affordable rental units in the city. Economic Development High priority is given to continued support of a loan program to provide loans, training and technical assistance to microenterprises, defined as businesses having five (5) or fewer employees, one or more of whom owns the enterprise. High priority is given to funding a computer training, employment nad technology enterprise programs. High priority is given to supporting business development and fagade improvement activities in neighborhood retail districts. Human Services High priority is given to developing new permanent supportive housing options to continue implementing a "continuum of care" for the homeless. Public Safety High priority is given to Community Policing. High priority is given to decentralizing "public safety" activities. Third Program Year Action Plan 4 Version 2.0 k Jurisdiction Transporation, Infrastructure Public Improvements Moderate priority is given to undertaking public improvements in selected target areas icnluding special assessments, beautification, tree planting and lighting. Moderate priority is given to improving recreational facilities and programs. Environment and Energy Conservation Activities Moderate priority is given to activites which enhance the appearance and quality of life in target neighborhoods including neighborhood clean-ups. Managing the Process 1. Identify the lead agency, entity, and agencies responsible for administering programs covered by the consolidated plan. 2. Identify the significant aspects of the process by which the plan was developed, and the agencies, groups, organizations, and others who participated in the process. 3. Describe actions that will take place during the next year to enhance coordination between public and private housing, health, and social service agencies. Program Year 3 Action Plan Managing the Process response: The City of Lansing is the lead agency responsible for coordinating the Consolidated Planning and Submission Process and Action Plans. The City of Lansing has coordinated with participation from many other agencies citywide to develop the Year Three Action Plan for 2008. This process incorporated other planning efforts and strategic planning documents including the Lansing Housing Partnership (LHP), Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS), the Enterprise Community (EC) Plan Application and the Lansing Housing Commission's Plan as well as the current consolidated plan process. Both housing and non -housing issues were addressed during these planning processes. Again, these issues were discussed and suggestions made on ways to better serve the needs of the target populations. Many of the agencies discussed how they exhaust their funds in trying to serve their clients' special needs. With the economic climate, funding sources are limited thereby reducing the effectiveness of critical programs. However, these agencies continue to look at innovative ways of providing services to their clients. Third Program Year Action Plan 5 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction Partnerships continue to be developed between state and local agencies in efforts to identify the type of housing and community development needs existing in Lansing. The City continues to consult with agencies/organizations such as the Lansing Housing Commission, Lansing Area Aids Network, Capital Area Center for Independent Living, Continuum of Care Agencies, Tri-County Office on Aging, Michigan Department of Public Health, Michigan State Housing Development Authority, and other state and local organizations and jurisdictions were involved in the process in development of the plan. Again, the City of Lansing will continue to incorporate many of the strategies from its "Enterprise Community" application to address the non -housing needs. In the development of that strategic planning document, Lansing held several meetings with local and state agencies, neighborhood organizations and citizens to address the needs of the extremely low - to -low income residents in the city. In the development of these documents, the city kept in mind the three basic goals of the program: 1) To provide decent housing; 2) To provide a suitable living environment and 3) To expand economic opportunities. Also, the City of Lansing followed its existing Citizens Participation Plan in terms of the process of participation. The Citizen Participation Plan incorporates the general public participation process of the city. Our mailing list contains various agencies and organizations that we identify as the CDBG mailing list. Recipients of our HOME and ESG funding are on the list as well as neighborhood organizations, agencies that serve the special needs population, etc. These groups and organizations are notified every year of the consolidated planning process. Also, community meetings are set within the community to gain input from the organizations and the populations that they serve. The public is also aware of the participation process because the information is advertised in the local newspaper, on public access television, as well as posted at the Library and other public places. Citizen Participation 1. Provide a summary of the citizen participation process. 2. Provide a summary of citizen comments or views on the plan. 3. Provide a summary of efforts made to broaden public participation in the development of the consolidated plan, including outreach to minorities and non- English speaking persons, as well as persons with disabilities. 4. Provide a written explanation of comments not accepted and the reasons why these comments were not accepted. *Please note that Citizen Comments and Responses may be included as additional files within the CPMP Tool. Program Year 3 Action Plan Citizen Participation response: Citizen Participation is an important factor in the development of the Consolidated Plan/Action Plan. The City of Lansing's citizen participation process has comprehensively examined the necessities related to the housing, industrial, and commercial community development. The process considers needs for economic groundwork and development, as well as the needs related to human interaction and the social environment. The objective of the process has been to formulate strategies and programs to address identified needs. The process is open to any Third Program Year Action Plan 6 Version 2.0 w- Jurisdiction interested party or organization, and facilitated by the participation of a wide range of groups and individuals concerned with community development issues. In the development of the Consolidated Plan, the City of Lansing considered all previous strategic planning documents, the Lansing Housing Partnership, the CHAS, along with the Enterprise Community Plan and the Lansing Housing Commission's Plan. Input from citizens was also incorporated into these efforts. The Citizen Participation Process is intended to assure that the citizens of the community and organizations concerned with housing and commnuity development will have every opportunity to participate in the planning and utilization of community development funds. The opportunity for citizens to participate in commnuity development goes beyond the formal process as outlined in the City of Lansing's Citizen Participation Plan (Section 91.105 of the Federal regulations and in accordance legislative changes to the CDBG Entitlement Program under the Housing and Urban -Rural Recovery Act of 1983). In summary, the key steps in the process include: community meetings held in August and September, a public hearing held before the Planning Board on community needs in October, November or December. This hearing will provide citizens an opportunity to present their views on community development housing needs. Community meetings include citizens, other local jurisdictions, state agencies, other city departments, special needs groups and commnuity development activities. The Public Hearing on the community needs for the Action Plan was held on November 1, 2006. Another hearing was held before Planning Board on January 9, 2007 on the proposed program objectives and projected use of Federal formula program funds. Notices of these hearings were published in the local newspaper, the Lansing State Journal, mailed to known citizens groups and other organizations concerned with housing and community development issues. Notice of public hearings also appears on the City of Lansing's cable TV information channel. A similar process is followed for public hearings at the City Council level. A draft of the summary plan was made available for public review and comments for a 30 day period March 19, 2007 - April 19, 2007. A notice of the opportunity for public review and comment was published in the Lansing State Journal, made available at the Capital Area District Library, the City Clerk's office and the Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development as well as televised on the public access channel for public review and comments. The City will respond in writing in fifteen days (15) to any written or oral comments or views of citizens submitted during this comment period. A summary of comments or views and the city's response is included in the Consolidated Plan submission. The facility where the public hearings are held is barrier free to accommodate persons with disabilities. In the event that a significant number of non-English speaking residents attend the public hearing, the city will provide a resource person for translation purposes. The City makes every possible effort to outreach to its minority population. Third Program Year Action Plan 7 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction �. In reference to the comments received during the Action Plan process, several comments were made at the Public Hearings held before the Planning Board at their November 1, 2006 and January 9, 2007 (see attached minutes) meetings. At the April 17, 2006, Public Hearing held before City Council, there were several comments in support of CDBG, HOME and ESG funds. Specifically, there was support of housing development, rehabilitation, economic development and funding for the homeless population. Public outreach is a continuous task of the City of Lansing. In terms of reaching the minority population, several established groups and organizations receive information pertaining to the Consolidated Plan. The City of Lansing makes every concerted effort to outreach to its minority population and special needs population. Institutional Structure 1. Describe actions that will take place during the next year to develop institutional structure. Program Year 3 Action Plan Institutional Structure response: The Actions to take place during fiscal year 2008 are as follows: As identified in the Strategic Plan, the City of Lansing Department of Planning and Neighborhood Development and the City's Human Relations and Community Services (HRCS) Department will continue to be responsible for coordinating special housing activities and services related to housing. Both City Departments will address emergency housing situations. The Human Relations and Community Services Department is responsible for coordinating efforts of public and private agencies that deliver housing services in the community. The Emergency Shelter Program is also administered through the HRCS Department. The Lansing Housing Commission (LHC) is responsible for the management and maintenance of public housing and programs. It is also the local clearinghouse for Section 8 assistance. The city and LHC have worked collaboratively on several projects in the past. Homes built or rehabilitated with HOME or CDBG funds have been sold to public housing tenants. One CHDO that receives operating support also contracts with LHC to provide Family Self -Sufficiency services. The City has provided HOME funds to assist LHC to develop new affordable rental housing units. In FY 2007, the City expects to target assistance to improve a neighborhood surrounding a new site which will be redeveloped by LHC for single family homes and elderly rental housing. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) will continue to work directly with the City, local service agencies, non-profit corporations, neighborhood organizations, private developers and individuals to implement housing programs it sponsors. MSHDA and the City of Lansing will complete their existing joint grants for the Neighborhood Preservation Program in the Baker/Donors area. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) works with the City, State and private non-profit agencies and housing corporations to deliver federal housing programs in the City. Third Program Year Action Plan 8 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction State and local social service agencies work with public agencies and directly with clients to provide housing and supportive housing services for individuals and families. Clients in need of housing or particular services are referred by agencies and providers as needed. Coordination of services is accomplished by a formal and informal networking system or under the direction of boards or commissions. Lansing non-profit housing corporations also work with governmental agencies, private lending institutions and other housing non -profits or agencies to provide - affordable housing opportunities in the City. Activities include acquisition and rehabilitation of housing for rental, lease to own or homeownership. Non-profit housing corporations are also beginning to become involved with the development of supportive housing facilities and leasing programs to serve the homeless and special housing needs groups. The City uses the Local Initiatives Support Coalition to provide technical training and assistance to non-profit housing corporations. The City of Lansing will assist in the efforts of non -profits to acquire sites for development and rehabilitation and to finance rehabilitation. Through a network of fifty-five neighborhood organizations, the City will assist with neighborhood beautification and safety activities, many of which coordinate activities through the Lansing Neighborhood Council. The Lansing Neighborhood Council is an organization historically funded by the City to provide technical assistance to neighborhood groups, work with the City, State and other housing providers to plan and implement housing programs and public safety activities throughout the community. Information on lead paint hazards and fair housing is disseminated to neighborhoods through this network. Several lending institutions have formed a local loan pool that is intended to be utilized by non-profit housing corporations for production of housing. Many banks have also developed products, or provide loans to help finance affordable housing opportunities in the City for low and moderate income households. Housing assistance providers, program coordinators and agencies providing housing services and neighborhood development activities coordinate their investment of resources through regular scheduled meetings and formal and informal contact. Housing action clearinghouse committees have existed in the community in one form or another with varying success at coordinating activities. Monitoring Describe actions that will take place during the next year to monitor its housing and community development projects and ensure long-term compliance with program requirements and comprehensive planning requirements. Program Year 3 Action Plan Monitoring response: The City of Lansing's Monitoring Plan consist of the following: Nonprofit Housinci Corporations and CHDOs Subreceipients nonprofit housing corporation and Commnunity Development Organizations (CHDOs) receiving CDBG and HOME funding from the City are Third Program Year Action Plan 9 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction monitored on an ongoing basis through the City's Development Office. Ongoing monitoring includes periodic reports, project by project documentation and direct technical assistance provided by Development staff and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), a subrecipient of the City. Annual audits are also provided to the City by the participating organizations as required and reviewed by both the Development Office and the Finance Department of the City. The Development Office will also coordinate a formal onsite monitoring visit for each subrecepient and/or CHDO every two (2) years. The monitoring visit includes the participation of the City's Finance Department. The visit will include a review of financial management, purchasing procurement practices, rehabilitation requirements and all other Federal program requirements that apply. A report with findings, concerns and recommendations will be provided to each organization with directions for improvements and responses required. HOME Program Monitoring Rental units financed through the HOME Program are inspected and monitored through the Development Office every one or two years, depending on the size of the project. The City monitors the condition of the property and re -verifies income eligibility. Emergency Shelter Subrecipients Organizations that receive ESG and Supportive Housing funding from the City are monitored on an ongoing basis through the City's Development Office and the Human Relations and Community Services (HRCS) Department. Ongoing monitoring includes monthly reports, project documentation, on -site visits and direct technical assistance provided by city staff. ESG renovated shelters are inspected by Development Office staff every two (2) years to verify that properties are being properly maintained and that shelter programs continue to operate. The HRCS Department monitors on an ongoing basis all organizations receiving ESG or SHP funds for daily operations and approved projects and programs. Monitoring includes monthly reports, on -site visits to verify activity, annual reports and documentation of expenditures. Lead -based Paint 1. Describe the actions that will take place during the next year to evaluate and reduce the number of housing units containing lead -based paint hazards in order to increase the inventory of lead -safe housing available to extremely low-income, low-income, and moderate -income families, and how the plan for the reduction of lead -based hazards is related to the extent of lead poisoning and hazards. Program Year 3 Action Plan Lead -based Paint response: The City of Lansing will take the following specific actions to address lead based paint hazards in FY 2008: Third Program Year Action Plan 10 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction Continue to work with the Ingham County Health Department, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, nonprofit housing corporations, private contractors and subcontractors and other relevant agencies and organizations to develop strategies to implement Title X regulations. Continue to establish additional partnerships with agencies/organizations in the community to provide more education on lead based paint issues. Continue to provide required notification to owners and.tenants for possible lead hazards in housing units being rehabilitated as part of Federally funded housing improvement programs. Continue to participate in efforts and strategies to train and certify employees, inspectors, contractors, subcontractors and workers to inspect assess and remove lead -based paint hazards. Contine to work with the County, State, nonprofit housing corporations and private contractors subcontractors to establish a lead hazard reduction strategy that will coordinate inspection, evaluation, remediation and blood screenign efforts. Continue to seek grants and loans to leverage local funds and finance lead hazard reduction activities. H2OIJSII�G Specific Housing Objectives *Please also refer to the Housing Needs Table in the Needs.xls workbook. 1. Describe the priorities and specific objectives the jurisdiction hopes to achieve during the next year. 2. Describe how Federal, State, and local public and private sector resources that are reasonably expected to be available will be used to address identified needs for the period covered by this Action Plan. Program Year 3 Action Plan Specific Objectives response: Help 75 homeowners rehabilitate their homes to meet basic code Make 33 homes lead safe. Help private sector partners acquire, rehabilitate and resell 16 homes. Assist 18 first-time homebuyers. Provide pre and post home ownership counseling to 150 homebuyers or homeowners. Provide weatherization assistance to 220 households. Provide emergency repairs to 40 households. Provide organizational support and technical assistance to CHDOs and other nonprofits. Help construct 3 new homes affordable to low or very low income homebuyers. Conduct 6 safe work practices training sessions. Third Program Year Action Plan 11 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction Conduct 3 home improvement workshops for homeowners. Needs of Public Housing 1. Describe the manner in which the plan of the jurisdiction will help address the needs of public housing and activities it will undertake during the next year to encourage public housing residents to become more involved in management and participate in homeownership. 2. If the public housing agency is designated as "troubled" by HUD or otherwise is performing poorly, the jurisdiction shall describe the manner in which it will provide financial or other assistance in improving its operations to remove such designation during the next year. Program Year 3 Action Plan Public Housing Strategy response: The City participates in ongoing partnership with the Lansing Housing Commission to expand the supply of affordable rental housing and homeownership for public housing residents. During FY 2008, the City of Lansing and LHC will be working to redevelop the former site of the Michigan School for the Blind into new affodable elderly rental housing and single family owner occupied homes. According to the Lansing Housing Commission, the Department of Housing and Urban Development recognizes them as a high performer and their objective is to maintain that status throuhgout this planning process and beyond. Barriers to Affordable Housing 1. Describe the actions that will take place during the next year to remove barriers to affordable housing. Program Year 3 Action Plan Barriers to Affordable Housing response: The Housing Affordability Committee of the Lansing Housing Partnership identified the following public policy barriers and recommended action to reduce those barriers: Public Policy Issues/Recommended Actions BUILDING AND HOUSING CODES Prescriptive housing code standards frequently prevent use of certain areas of older housing units because of area and/or ceiling height requirements set forth in the code. Lansing has a significant number of homes built in the 20's and 30's with attics that do not meet such requirements and, therefore, cannot be legally converted into living space such as bedrooms. Third Program Year Action Plan 12 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction Solution: Where appropriate remove prescriptive and substitute regulations such as minimum window sizes and minimum ceiling heights, etc., to performance standards that will meet minimum public health and safety needs. Building and Mechanical Codes may establish standards for new construction that add to the cost of construction and exceed minimum safety needs of the community. Solution: Explore Building and Mechanical Codes to identify requirements that _could be reduced without adversely affecting community health and safety standards. Consider setting separate construction standards for one and two family construction and remodeling. Inspection fees charged by the City add to the cost of affordable housing. Solution: All fees charged for inspection and associated administrative services should be periodically reviewed to ensure that they represent the cost of providing such services. Needed housing is being taken out of service within the city for a variety of reasons. Solution: Review City's dangerous building demolition procedure to ensure that restorable housing is not unnecessarily demolished. Solution: Consider establishing a requirement that will replace housing taken out of service for industrial or commercial expansion Solution: Establish a policy acquiring tax reverted restorable residential properties from the DEQ. These properties could be homesteaded and/or renovated with the assistance of city and non-profit housing groups. Solution: Establish a procedure that will provide for the rehab of substandard properties to include the establishment of a revolving repair fund. Today's high cost of energy adversely impacts on the ability of families to make mortgage/rent payments and pay utility bills. Solution: Explore establishing retrofit energy conservation requirements for existing buildings when it is determined that such modifications are cost effective and will significantly reduce utility costs. Accelerated deterioration of housing caused by neglect and improper use is costly and reduces the availability of affordable housing. Solution: Reinforce Housing and Zoning Code regulations where possible to address the responsibilities of building occupants. Solution: Decriminalize Housing Code violations and place the due -process procedure in a lower court. Solution: Establish mandatory training requirements for convicted violators that will encourage them to improve health and safety standards. Third Program Year Action Plan 13 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction `> There are still many people in Lansing that do not have basic home repair tools, or knowledge of how to maintain and fix the homes they live in. Solution: Provide educational programs in neighborhoods to teach tenants basic home repair, elementary housekeeping, and how to use various repair tools and housekeeping tools. Also, a neighborhood level tool bank and assistance resource for helping citizens to keep their homes in good order. PLANNING AND ZONING The cost of developing new residential subdivisions exceed the concept of affordability often due to the high costs for roads, infrastructure and excessive spatial requirements of the City's Subdivision regulations. The costs for improvements are passed on to the home buyer, therefore a number suggested modifications to the Subdivision Ordinance could assist in keeping site costs lower. Solution: Streets and Right -of -Way Paved streets with curb and gutter and sidewalks are required for all new subdivisions in Lansing. If new subdivisions could be built with open side ditches and no sidewalks required, costs for the development could be lower. The street rights -of -way in new subdivisions could be reduced to 50' and have pavement width of less than 36'. Private streets and public streets in subdivisions could function with the narrower widths. Reduced street width may require or allow parking on only one side of the street. Solution: Lot Lines and Setbacks. The concept of "0" Lot lines may be applied to new construction and provides housing styles at lower costs and on smaller lots. Reduced setbacks from front property lines to building lines also would lower costs because lots could be smaller. Construction costs for shorter driveways and other site improvements may be significantly reduced. Solution: Storm Water Retention. Provisions for on -site retention of storm water runoff may reduce the higher costs of storm sewer installation. Solution: More Extensive Use of Manufactured Homes. Manufactured construction for housing development to include modular or panelized homes meeting Building Code standards could be encouraged. Provisions are needed to allow for removal of deteriorated manufactured structures which have become eyesores. Such provisions would have to be part of the City's ordinances. The City should address existing development with architectural standards which would stipulate the placement and location for manufactured housing. Solution: On -site Parking Use of carports constructed in new subdivisions may offer lower costs of construction. Also, greater potential to build carports closer to lot lines may be more desirable than a solid wall garage. Also, consideration of two car width driveways to the front rather than to the side or rear of the house even though there may be a single car garage, no garage, or single car driveway may give more flexibility and affordability. In new subdivisions consideration for bay parking areas could permit smaller lot sizes and reduce individual driveway and curb costs. In older parts of Lansing, more flexible provisions for infill housing development, redevelopment or renovating existing housing could aid in maintaining a supply of affordable housing. Third Program Year Action Plan 14 Version 2.0 } Jurisdiction Solution: Use of Alleys. In areas where public alleyways are located, abutting properties should utilize them for vehicular access and eliminate the individual driveways off the city street. This would reduce replacement/maintenance costs and eliminate drive approaches which offer savings for both the property owner and the City. Public alleys would be more conducive for common parking area to serve the neighboring residential uses. ZONING CODE The Zoning Code is designed to maintain and protect the environmental quality of residential neighborhoods. To make the supply of affordable housing more available various changes to the zoning ordinance could be made for providing more intense use of residentially zoned properties. Parking Requirements for multiple family zoning classifications could be reduced. Multiple family housing development along major transit corridors would require fewer spaces per unit than apartments developed on lower classified streets. A lease agreement with tenants could be required to limit the number of cars a tenant would be allowed to have on the property. A street permit system may be required for neighboring residential streets to avoid apartment dweller/visitor use. Solution: More Intense Housing Development. Condominium techniques could increase home ownership at a lower cost and could be applied on an area basis. Centralized tool banking, banking maintenance equipment and self help programs need to be part of every neighborhood or housing development with housing identified in the lower cost ranges. Education should be provided for lower income home owners and renters to handle minor maintenance, housekeeping and minor repairs. Encourage owner occupancy for higher density multiple family housing or unit conversions with enforcement provisions to reduce density if the structure becomes abandoned. Solution: Non -Residential Structure Conversion. Presently the Zoning code prevents residential use in many non-residential zones. In order to increase the availability and variety of affordable housing, changes to the code may be considered to allow residential use of non-residential structures in all zones. This would allow more productive and effective use of 2nd and 3rd floors of non residential structures. It provides more security for neighborhood areas and uses the defensible space concept in non-residential areas. Lower costs and variety of housing types would be available in the market. This would help preserve the residential character of buildings formerly built and used as residential structures in non-residential areas especially along Michigan Avenue, Larch Street and in older parts of Lansing. Solution: Land Use Administrative Fees. Reducing application fees for rezoning and similar municipal administrative requirements would have little to no impact on providing more affordable housing. The amount of the fee to rezone or have a site plan review is minimal in comparison to the cost of development, variance or reuse proposed. The fee structure should be reviewed relative to costs to determine if they are skewed and appropriate modifications made in favor of rehab and upgrade as necessary. Incentives in the fee structure may be made by the City for non profits and occupant owners who desire to renovate, rehab or preserve existing units of construct infill housing units. Fines, fees and other funding could be channeled to a revolving fund to assist occupant owners on fixed income to fix up their homes. Third Program Year Action Plan 15 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction �{ The City is losing a large number of housing units each year which could be available for the Affordable Housing market. Many structures are removed by business owners and developers who want to expand non-residential uses. The owners expect to obtain rezoning after removal of uses which are often contrary to the neighborhood plan. Solution: Establish a stiff monetary penalty for removing housing structures with no demolition permit. Establish a revolving fund where demolitions of residential structures by private or public actions for any reason other than condemnation for condition will require the demolition agency to contribute an amount of money equal to the demo costs. This fund could be used for assisting in the restoration of old construction and new residential structures. It can be seed money or match funds. Fines for unauthorized removal would be channeled to this account. HOME/ American Dream Down payment Initiative (ADDI) 1. Describe other forms of investment not described in § 92.205(b). 2. If the participating jurisdiction (PJ) will use HOME or ADDI funds for homebuyers, it must state the guidelines for resale or recapture, as required in § 92.254 of the HOME rule. 3. If the PJ will use HOME funds to refinance existing debt secured by multifamily housing that is that is being rehabilitated with HOME funds, it must state its refinancing guidelines required under § 92.206(b). The guidelines shall describe the conditions under which the PJ will refinance existing debt. At a minimum these guidelines must: a. Demonstrate that rehabilitation is the primary eligible activity and ensure that this requirement is met by establishing a minimum level of rehabilitation per unit or a required ratio between rehabilitation and refinancing. b. Require a review of management practices to demonstrate that disinvestments in the property has not occurred; that the long-term needs of the project can be met; and that the feasibility of serving the targeted population over an extended affordability period can be demonstrated. c. State whether the new investment is being made to maintain current affordable units, create additional affordable units, or both. d. Specify the required period of affordability, whether it is the minimum 15 years or longer. e. Specify whether the investment of HOME funds may be jurisdiction -wide or limited to a specific geographic area, such as a neighborhood identified in a neighborhood revitalization strategy under 24 CFR 91.215(e)(2) or a Federally designated Empowerment Zone or Enterprise Community. f. State that HOME funds cannot be used to refinance multifamily loans made or insured by any federal program, including CDBG. 4. If the PJ is going to receive American Dream Down payment Initiative (ADDI) funds, please complete the following narratives: a. Describe the planned use of the ADDI funds. Third Program Year Action Plan 16 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction b. Describe the PI's plan for conducting targeted outreach to residents and tenants of public housing and manufactured housing and to other families assisted by public housing agencies, for the purposes of ensuring that the ADDI funds are used to provide down payment assistance for such residents, tenants, and families. c. Describe the actions to be taken to ensure the suitability of families receiving ADDI funds to undertake and maintain homeownership, such as provision of housing counseling to homebuyers. Program Year 3 Action Plan HOME/ADDI response: The City of Lansing will provide downpayment assistance to eligible first time homebuyers. The amount of the downpayment assistance will not exceed six percent (6%) of the purchase price of the home. Manufactured housing may qualify if placed on a vacant lot permanently affixed to footings, crawl space or basement. Mobile homes do not qualify. Mortgages include a recapture clause stating that any breach in the agreement may result in repayment of the loan. In terms of outreach to the community, the City will be working in partnership with our CHDOs and the Lansing Public Housing Commission to provide information regarding our down payment assistance program. First-time home buyers must attend pre -purchase home ownership counseling classes. Information describing the program is available in print to local neighborhood groups and available on the website. HOME funds will be used to operate this program since the city has not been awarded ADDI funds for this program year. The program is also marketed through the Greater Lansing Board of Realtors HOMELESS Specific Homeless Prevention Elements *Please also refer to the Homeless Needs Table in the Needs.xls workbook. 1. Sources of Funds —Identify the private and public resources that the jurisdiction expects to receive during the next year to address homeless needs and to prevent homelessness. These include the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act programs, other special federal, state and local and private funds targeted to homeless individuals and families with children, especially the chronically homeless, the HUD formula programs, and any publicly -owned land or property. Please describe, briefly, the jurisdiction's plan for the investment and use of funds directed toward homelessness. 2. Homelessness —In a narrative, describe how the action plan will address the specific objectives of the Strategic Plan and, ultimately, the priority needs identified. Please also identify potential obstacles to completing these action steps. 3. Chronic homelessness —The jurisdiction must describe the specific planned action steps it will take over the next year aimed at eliminating chronic homelessness by 2012. Again, please identify barriers to achieving this. Third Program Year Action Plan 17 Version 2.0 7 Jurisdiction 4. Homelessness Prevention —The jurisdiction must describe its planned action steps over the next year to address the individual and families with children at imminent risk of becoming homeless. 5. Discharge Coordination Policy —Explain planned activities to implement a cohesive, community -wide Discharge Coordination Policy, and how, in the coming year, the community will move toward such a policy. Program Year 3 Action Plan Special Needs response: Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) The City of Lansing expects to receive Emergency Shelter Grant funds to address the needs of the homeless population. The Continuum of Care Planning update addresses various funding sources used to address homelessness. The City of Lansing Continuum of Care is the Greater Lansing Homeless Resolution Network (GLHRN), the leadership organization whose mission is to work to resolve and prevent homelessness through the promotion of partnerships and programs that create housing opportunities, build life skills and provide integrated supportive services to individuals and families in need addresses chronic homelessness, discharge coordination. These relationships and activities will be continued in Year Three. The City of Lansing is working with the GLHRN on the ten-year plan to end homelessness. (States only) Describe the process for awarding grants to State recipients, and a description of how the allocation will be made available to units of local government. Program Year 3 Action Plan ESG response: COM M UN ITY B EVUO P MBE NT :, Community Development *Please also refer to the Community Development Table in the Needs.xls workbook. 1. Identify the jurisdiction's priority non -housing community development needs eligible for assistance by CDBG eligibility category specified in the Community Development Needs Table (formerly Table 213), public facilities, public improvements, public services and economic development. 2. Identify specific long-term and short-term community development objectives (including economic development activities that create jobs), developed in accordance with the statutory goals described in section 24 CFR 91.1 and the primary objective of the CDBG program to provide decent housing and a suitable living environment and expand economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate -income persons. *Note: Each specific objective developed to address a priority need, must be identified by number and contain proposed accomplishments, the time period (i.e., one, two, three, or more years), and annual program year numeric goals the jurisdiction hopes to achieve in quantitative terms, or in other measurable terms as identified and defined by the jurisdiction. Third Program Year Action Plan 18 Version 2.0 }' Jurisdiction Program Year 3 Action Plan Community Development response: There is a need for targeted assistance to neighborhood community centers and parks to support programming for low and moderate income households, especially for the elderly and children. There is a need to assist with public improvements in CDBG eligible areas and to help low income households pay for special assessments for street, curb, gutter and sidewalk improvements in targeted area. Assistance is needed to provide community policing in targeted areas. Assistance is also needed to support home ownership and to promote neighborhood organizations and.other services to improve the quality of life in CDBG eligible areas. Assistance is needed to further fair housing objectives, promote safety, remove blight and eyesores and to increase public awareness of lead and other hazards in housing. There is a need to support economic development that serves the day to day business and commerce needs of low and moderate income neighborhoods as well as to provide employment and training opportunities for residents. Specifically, assistance is needed to train and promote new entrepreneurs and business ventures as well as retain or expand existing businesses. Objectives are: Train 60 potential entrepreneurs Support at least 10 new business start-up. Provide business retention or expansion services to at least 5 existing businesses. Provide training and education services to at least 100 low to moderate income people in computer and information technology or construction trades. Create a one -stop housing resource and education center. Antipoverty Strategy 1. Describe the actions that will take place during the next year to reduce the number of poverty level families. Program Year 3 Action Plan Antipoverty Strategy response: Poverty is an issue not easily addressed or controlled by the City. Economic factors often beyond the control of the community result in loss of jobs and reduction in personal income, the primary causes of poverty. Traditional types of economic development intended to create jobs and provide household income are the most important components of an anti -poverty strategy. The City is actively involved on a local and regional scale in promoting this kind of growth. Other activities sponsored by the City, other housing providers and service agencies and the private sector, however, combat poverty in ways just as effective as the more traditional types of economic development. They are as follows: A. Affordable Housing Programs - This document outlines rehabilitation and weatherization programs sponsored by the City, other governmental units, non-profit housing corporations, service providers and the private sector. These programs are intended to not only provide affordable, safe and decent housing to low income families, but also to allow these families more economic freedom by reducing or Third Program Year Action Plan 19 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction eliminating cost burden for housing they often face and reducing payments for utilities. B. Public Housing Initiatives - These activities sponsored by the Lansing Housing Commission for public housing residents are attempts at addressing the root causes of poverty, lack of job training and/or education. The initiatives provide opportunities for residents to improve their knowledge and skills, critical steps in being able to compete for higher paying jobs. Activities of this type combined with opportunities for affordable housing offer public housing residents a chance at self sufficiency and a way to break away from the circle of poverty. Of particular strategic importance is that such programs are targeted to children and teenagers. Other activities associated with these programs, such as child care, also contribute to the comprehensive approach to improving the economic condition of public housing residents. C. Supportive Service Programs - The supportive services offered to special housing needs groups include job training and education programs. The objective is again to give clients the opportunity to achieve self sufficiency by giving them the skills to compete for better paying jobs. Such efforts include participation of area school districts, local institutions of higher learning and employers themselves. Programs are sponsored by some agencies with particular clientele but also by agencies serving the general population. D. Private industry has established Human Resource programs to retrain individuals who have lost their jobs. Retraining will allow these individuals to compete for other employment opportunities. E. Economic development initiatives are intended to provide individuals with the education and training necessary to obtain higher paying jobs and also intended to enable the business community to expand and create more jobs in the community. CDBG resources are specificalyy targeted to: 1. Make home ownership opportunities and assistance available to Lansing Housing Commission, Family Self-sufficiency participants, Michigan Department of Human Services Individual Development Accounts participants on a priority basis. 2. Recruit recipients of public assistance for participation in micro - enterprise training programs and for technology training and job preparation through "Closing the Digital Gap" programs. NON ,H`GM,ELESS' SPYECIALN;EEDS HOUSIIVG4,=3 x w Non -homeless Special Needs (91.220 (c) and (e)) *Please also refer to the Non -homeless Special Needs Table in the Needs.xls workbook. 1. Describe the priorities and specific objectives the jurisdiction hopes to achieve for the period covered by the Action Plan. 2. Describe how Federal, State, and local public and private sector resources that are reasonably expected to be available will be used to address identified needs for the period covered by this Action Plan. Third Program Year Action Plan 20 Version 2.0 P Jurisdiction Program Year 3 Action Plan Specific Objectives response: The City of Lansing will contribute funds from its general fund to leverage private and other public funding to support nonprofit and other agencies that provide services to special needs groups who may not be homeless including the elderly and frail elderly, persons with severe mental illness, developmentally disabled, physically disabled, Alcohol/Other Drug Addicted persons with HIV/AIDS and their families and Public Housing residents. Typical services include in -home meals, medical treatment, education, job training, counseling, utility payments, etc. Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS *Please also refer to the HOPWA Table in the Needs.xls workbook. Provide a Brief description of the organization, the area of service, the name of the program contacts, and a broad overview of the range/ type of housing activities to be done during the next year. 2. Report on the actions taken during the year that addressed the special needs of persons who are not homeless but require supportive housing, and assistance for persons who are homeless. 3. Evaluate the progress in meeting its specific objective of providing affordable housing, including a comparison of actual outputs and outcomes to proposed goals and progress made on the other planned actions indicated in the strategic and action plans. The evaluation can address any related program adjustments or future plans. 4. Report on annual HOPWA output goals for the number of households assisted during the year in: (1) short-term rent, mortgage and utility payments to avoid homelessness; (2) rental assistance programs; and (3) in housing facilities, such as community residences and SRO dwellings, where funds are used to develop and/or operate these facilities. Include any assessment of client outcomes for achieving housing stability, reduced risks of homelessness and improved access to care. 5. Report on the use of committed leveraging from other public and private resources that helped to address needs identified in the plan. 6. Provide an analysis of the extent to which HOPWA funds were distributed among different categories of housing needs consistent with the geographic distribution plans identified in its approved Consolidated Plan. 7. Describe any barriers (including non -regulatory) encountered, actions in response to barriers, and recommendations for program improvement. 8. Please describe the expected trends facing the community in meeting the needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS and provide additional information regarding the administration of services to people with HIV/AIDS. 9. Please note any evaluations, studies or other assessments that will be conducted on the local HOPWA program during the next year. Third Program Year Action Plan 21 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction ' Program Year 3 Action Plan HOPWA response: N/A Specific HOPWA Objectives Describe how Federal, State, and local public and private sector resources that are reasonably expected to be available will be used to address identified needs for the period covered by the Action Plan. Program Year 3 Specific HOPWA Objectives response: Dthe- r.Narratavae` xy S. # Include any Action Plan information that was not covered by a narrative in any other section. The City of Lansing will continue its efforts to assure that fair housing principles are followed in the city. CDBG funds will be budgeted to sponsor the following fair housing initiatives: continue to explore the possiblility of a fair housing center in the city; continue to update the City of Lansing's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing (AI) with special attention given to reviewing local codes and ordinances and its impact on fair housing; work with community organizations to educate citizens about fair housing issues and pursue enforcement in cases of housing discrimination; work to eliminate predatory lending practices that disproportionately affect protected groups. The City of Lansing Human Resources and Community Services (HRCS) Department will continue to respond to inquiries and complaints relative to fair housing. The City is actively engaged in ongoing efforts to review, evaluate, analyze and investigate issues related to fair housing in the community. In addition to ongoing review and analysis, outreach and educational programs are conducted annually as part of the City's fair housing program (FHP). The HRCS Department and the Development Office participate in the preparation of this analysis and gathering of data as well as engage in implementation of strategies regarding fair housing and education. The City Attorney's Office provides legal assistance. Other participants are also included to conduct research investigative studies. The City of Lansing's Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing (AI) and FHP are ongoing and dynamic processes. Special investigative studies and specific strategies and actions are planned and implemented on an annual basis. In terms of the City of Lansing working with faith -based organizations, most of the homeless shelters are grounded on religious principles. Several of the emergency services in Lansing are supported or operated by faith -based organizations. City staff plays an active role with its involvement with the homeless population by serving on several boards to address the needs of this community. City Staff is part of the community's Continuum of Care planning activities together with these faith - based organization. This partnership includes: (1) assistance in funding sites for new homes constructed by Habitat Volunteers (2) funding to the local Habitat affiliate to support construction of specific homes (3) collaboration to promote neighborhood improvements in conjunction with Habitat/s Vision 2020 Initative (4) Consultation and assistance to Habitat to help them establish a new homeowner Third Program Year Action Plan 22 Version 2.0 Jurisdiction rehabilitation progam for home owners who cannot be served by the City's Home Owner rehab program Third Program Year Action Plan 23 Version 2.0 SUMMARY OF PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 CITY OF LANSING The purpose of the summary is to provide citizens the opportunity to examine and comment on the Action Plan for 2008 (7/l/07-6/30/08). An annual action plan approved by the City must be submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of the Consolidated Planning Process, and as part of the application for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Program and Emergency Shelter Program (ESG) funds for Fiscal Year 2008. Programs and activities -to be undertaken to meet goals and objectives established in the Action Plan for the City are described below. The primary objectives of Lansing's Action Plan for 2008 are based on the Five Year Consolidated Strategy and Plan Submission (CSPS) and are as follows: a. Provide standard housing in a suitable living environment through rehabilitation, new construction and improvement of the housing stock primarily in CDBG eligible neighborhoods and in specifically designated housing target areas. b. Provide housing counseling and assistance that will benefit low and moderate -income families. c. Promote home ownership for low and moderate -income households. d. Maintain at current levels the number of public and assisted housing units available to low and moderate -income households. e. Provide assistance to develop housing and supportive human services for people with special needs and who are homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless. f. Provide assistance to rehabilitate housing and deliver supportive human services to low and moderate income households with special needs. g. Promote economic opportunity for low and moderate -income individuals by facilitating economic development, providing employment and sponsoring job training, business and educational programs and initiatives. Promote economic development to provide jobs, business service and shopping opportunities for residents located in targeted areas. i. Provide community services, recreational opportunities and public facilities to improve the quality of life in targeted neighborhoods. Increase security and safety in neighborhoods by supporting public safety and crime prevention initiatives, public educational programs and citizens' awareness. k. Improve the City's transportation and infrastructure systems. I. Protect and improve the City's physical environment, including preventing or eliminating blight, removing lead or other safety hazards, preserving historic resources and improving energy fitness in housing. m. Promote fair housing objectives SUMMARY OF PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008 The Five Year CSPS for the City of Lansing sets forth programs and activities by priority based on the need that the community will undertake to provide affordable housing, supportive services and community development opportunities to benefit low and moderate -income households beginning in 2005 through the year 2010. The Action Plan for 2008 is the third program year for the five-year period and sets forth activities to be carried out in the period July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Activities will be funded through federal, state, local and privately funded programs. Activities will generally be located in CDBG eligible neighborhoods and in specifically targeted areas though programs may be applied and carried out anywhere in the city as noted in the Plan. PROPOSED HOUSING ACTIVITIES High priority activities related to housing include home repair, moderate rehabilitation and weatherization of renter and owner occupied housing units for very low-income households. High priority is given to providing rehabilitation assistance to other low-income homeowners. High priority is given to activities which will result in partnerships with nonprofit housing corporations and private businesses to provide home ownership opportunities to low and moderate -income homebuyers including housing counseling, moderate rehabilitation and down payment assistance and creation of a one -stop housing resource and education center. Moderate priority is given to providing low income households with special needs assistance through rehabilitation of housing units for rent or ownership; including barrier free improvements, delivery of supportive services and some new construction. Low priority is given to providing additional low-income rental households rehabilitation. Moderate priority is given to addressing the housing and supportive service needs of the homeless. Low priority is given to historic preservation. Low priority is given to developing newly constructed affordable rental units in the city. PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES Economic Development High priority is given to continued support of a loan program to provide loans, training, and technical assistance to microenterprises, defined as businesses having five (5) or fewer employees, one or more of whom owns the enterprise. High priority is given to funding a computer training, employment and technology enterprise programs. High priority is given to supporting business development and facade improvement activities in neighborhood retail districts. Human Services High priority is given to developing new permanent supportive housing options to continue implementation of a "continuum of care" for the homeless. Public Safety High priority is given to Community Policing. High priority is given to "decentralizing" public safety activities. Transportation, Infrastructure and Public Improvements Moderate priority is given to undertaking public improvements in selected target areas, including special assessments, beautification, tree planting and lighting. Moderate priority is given to improving recreational facilities, neighborhood service centers, and programs. Environment and Energy Conservation Activities Moderate priority is given to activities which enhance the appearance and quality of life in target neighborhoods including neighborhood clean-ups. PROPOSED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS 2007-2008 CDBG Owner Rehab Program Includes loans and grants for rehabilitation of up to 50 owner occupied $1,052,787 housing units through City sponsored programs, and in conjunction with 350,000 PI affordable housing efforts sponsored by nonprofit housing corporations $1,402,787 and other State and Federal agencies. Includes funds to meet lead hazard reduction regulations in rehabilitated structures. Includes funds to assist in the rehabilitation of emergency and transitional housing facilities for the homeless. Includes market analysis activities and support for Local Initiatives Support Corporation to provide technical assistance to nonprofit housing corporations. Includes loans and grants for weatherization of 10 owner occupied single-family units through City sponsored program. Includes loans to rehabilitate historic homes in conjunction with rehabilitation of the unit. Includes staff and other direct project costs associated with delivery of Community Development Block Grant, HOME, Emergency Shelter Grant and other State and Federal Programs. Includes building rent paid to City. Program Income = PI Weatherization Includes financing of Energy Fitness Program sponsored by Urban Options to benefit up to 220 low income households. $65,000 Acquisition Includes maintenance and security of properties acquired through $ 5,000 programs, and activities related to acquisition, relocation and clearance of dilapidated structures. Public Improvements Includes general street, sidewalk, curb and gutter, street lighting, $50,000 paving of gravel streets, and other infrastructure improvements, as well as assistance in the payment of special assessments for income eligible owner/occupants or CDBG eligible areas in support of housing rehabilitation activities. Specific sites yet to be determined. Public Services (limited to 15%CDBG $385,916 Includes housing referral and counseling services, homeownership Counseling, community policing, youth and senior programs, neighborhood clean-ups, food distribution (food bank services), health education or rape prevention education. Economic Development Support for Microenterprise Loan Program to provide loans to eligible $150,000 microenterprise businesses and training and education for 50 new microenterprise businesses. Support for "Closing the Digital Gap" program, a computer training and job placement program to benefit up to 80 participants. Support for other economic development initiatives including 5 facade improvements, 25 new jobs and neighborhood improvement. CDBG General Administration Includes staff and other costs associated with preparation of required $514,072 Consolidated Planning documents, environmental clearances, fair housing activities and citizen participation activities associated with the delivery of CDBG, HOME and other State and Federal Programs. Includes general administration costs associated with delivery of CDBG and other State and Federal Programs. Includes indirect administrative costs and building rent paid to the city. Includes Fair Housing Initiatives. Total CDBG $2,572,776 PROPOSED HOME PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS HOME Owner Rehab Program Includes loans and grants for rehabilitation of owner occupied housing units. Additional funding for this activity is available from previous years $26,604 Down Payment Assistance Funds provided to first-time homebuyers for down payment and closing $100,000 costs . The amount of down payment assistance is typically (6%) of the purchase price of the home. New Construction Includes funds for loans and grants for construction of up to 3 affordable $50,000 housing units. HOME Development Program HOME funds allocated for housing developed in partnership with $430,086 the City, including Supportive Housing Program (SHP) activities and possible refinancing of mortgages for HOME rehabilitation participants. 10 units estimated. Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) Operating Funds reserved at option of the City to provide operating funds to $43,000 CHDO's utilizing HOME funds provided by the City and State to produce affordable housing in the community. cf CHDO Set -aside (15%) HOME Program set -aside reserved for housing developed, sponsored $129,834 or owned by CHDOs in partnership with the City, 3 units estimated. HOME General Administration Includes staff and general administration costs to deliver HOME $86,039 Program. Total HOME $865,563 EMERGENCEY SHELTER GRANT PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND USE OF FUNDS Shelter Operation Funds provided to shelter providers to cover cost of maintenance, $94,802 Operations, insurance, utilities and furnishings in shelter facilities. Total ESG $94,802 SUMMARY Estimated Thirty Third Year Community Development Resources: Estimated CDBG Entitlement Grant $ 2,222,775 Estimated CDBG Program Income 350,000 Estimated HOME Program Funds 865,563 Estimated ESG Program Funds 94,802 TOTAL $ 3,533,140 PROPOSED OBJECTIVES, GOALS AND PROJECTED USE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT RESOURCES The budget included in the Proposed Objectives, Goals and Use of Community Development Resources as recommended by the Lansing Planning Board subsequent to a Public Hearing held on January 9, 2007. There is a small increase in ESG funding from $92,589 to $94,802. Annual budgets for CDBG resources are projected at $2,572,775 and HOME is budgeted for $865,563. CDBG and HOME budgets are slightly lower than last year. The City will support applications by other entities who wish to participate in Federal and State programs for housing and community development improvement and assistance provided proposed projects are consistent with the priorities established in the Five Year CSPS. The comment period for the Action Plan for 2008 will commence March 19, 2007 and expire April 19, 2007. All written comments submitted by citizens of Lansing will be considered and reviewed for possible inclusion in the final Action Plan for FY 2008 to be submitted to the Department of Housing and Urban Development no later than May 14, 2007. A summary of all comments received will be attached to the final document.