HomeMy WebLinkAboutHCDC 11.17.16
AGENDA
Housing and Community Development Commission
Thursday, November 17, 2016 – 6:30 P.M.
Helling Conference Room, City Hall
410 East Washington Street
1. Call meeting to order
2. Approval of the October 20, 2016 minutes
3. Public comment for topics not on the agenda
4. Monitoring visits
a. FY15 Habitat for Humanity two homes on Prairie Du Chien Road
b. FY16 DVIP Shelter operations (Aid to Agencies)
c. FY16 DVIP facility rehab
d. FY16 JC Neighborhood Centers Broadway Neighborhood Center Rehab
e. FY17 JC Neighborhood Centers Daycare operations (Aid to Agencies)
5. Update on FY17 projects without signed agreement
6. Consider approval of draft FY18 CDBG and HOME application materials
7. Discuss the State of Iowa Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community
Development 2017 Annual Action Plan
8. Staff/Commission Comment
9. Adjournment
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
OCTOBER 20, 2016 – 6:30 PM
DALE HELLING CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL
MEMBERS PRESENT: Peter Byler, Syndy Conger, Christine Harms, John McKinstry, Dorothy
Persson, Emily Seiple
MEMBERS ABSENT: Bob Lamkins, Harry Olmstead, Paula Vaughan
STAFF PRESENT: Tracy Hightshoe, Stan Laverman
OTHERS PRESENT: Bruce Teague, Else Daus
RECOMMENDATIONS TO CITY COUNCIL:
None
CALL TO ORDER:
Byler called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
APPROVAL OF SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 MINUTES:
Conger moved to approve the minutes of September 15, 2016 with corrections. Persson seconded
the motion. A vote was taken and motion passed 6-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
None
DISCUSS RECENT INSPECTION FINDINGS AT CHARM HOMES PROPERTY:
The Commission received the report in their packets, however Hightshoe noted the packet didn’t include
the senior housing inspector’s email to Council, but that was in the Council packet.
Byler began by acknowledging the letter that Ms. Metzger wrote and thanked her for sharing this
information with the Commission. There were some very genuine concerns expressed in her letter and as
the stewards of the HOME and CDBG funds this Commission needs to be vigilant about these matters.
Byler noted the responses from Bruce Teague and Stan Laverman explained things fairly well.
Hightshoe stated that the City has worked to resolve this issue. The City inspects every multi-family
property every other year, unless there is a complaint. Hightshoe noted that especially with SRO units
(housing for people with disabilities, especially those with mental disabilities) there may be a need to
inspect more frequently, so maybe moving to an annual inspection. There is a concern that some in the
SRO units might have barriers to filing a complaint. Hightshoe stated this is not based on one particular
provider or case, the City has been aware that they may need to be in those houses more than every
other year.
Byler asked about the program change by HUD on July 1, 2014 and whether prior to that time non-
affordable units were inspected every two years and affordable units were every year. Laverman
confirmed that was true. If a resident had a voucher the unit would have to be inspected every year.
Therefore the City would be in some of these buildings multiple times a year due to the inspection cycle
(not every unit would be on the same cycle). Byler asked if a landlord was renting to non-voucher holders
then the inspection would be every two years. Laverman confirmed that was correct. Byler then asked
when this new change went into effect and housing with assistance from the federal government was
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 20, 2016
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inspected every two years, was the housing inspection department downsized, or was there any savings
with this new policy. Laverman stated the City had seen an increase in rental units so instead of adding
new staff to adjust, this new policy allowed them to keep current staffing and be able to realize savings
with this new policy. Byler asked how many people do housing inspections. Laverman replied that there
are four full-time inspectors and himself as the supervisor. Laverman noted he does some inspections but
handles the nuisance complaints and oversees a ¾ time person that takes care of most of the complaints.
Byler questioned what effect it would have on staffing if the City Council decided that units with federal
assistance needed to be inspected every year. Laverman stated that they would need to hire new
positions regardless, due to the continued growth of rental properties in Iowa City but they do have staff
they could train to help with inspections as well. There has been a shift in efficiency due to technology –
they now use iPads – that allows them to access data in the field.
Laverman noted that he is supportive of yearly inspections for fraternity/sorority houses as well, if a
change to the policy was to be made.
Byler noted he is hesitant to propose a firm rule of yearly inspections without an analysis of the costs
associated. Persson agreed.
Seiple asked about role of the CHARM Homes staff in reporting complaints.
Bruce Teague (CHARM Homes) stated that nothing has changed in their policies or reporting guidelines.
In this particular situation, the complaint that was raised, he was not notified until he received the call from
the City (Laverman) so he was not notified by the client or guardian. If he had, he could have addressed
the situation right away. Teague stated he doesn’t feel there was any neglect because he was not made
aware of the situation. He noted that when they looked into this situation they just looked at the problem
area and not the whole house, and perhaps in the future that will be a change in policy to look throughout
an entire property to make sure there are no other issues. Teague expressed his deep concern that no
one should have to live in unfit conditions (filth or mold) and his organization will address it.
Persson asked if Teague has staff that can go around the buildings and check for issues. Teague said
staff is actually in the homes 24 hours per day and can check for issues such as water in basements after
rains. Most homes have sump pumps, so typically that controls the issue, but this is something they will
need to be more aware of in the future.
Byler asked if the caretaker (person on staff 24 hours/day) goes into the living quarters or if they are just
out in the common areas. Teague said that typically in all SRO living environments the private rooms are
the client’s private rooms. Some clients may allow staff into their rooms but some may not.
Harms commented on this noting her daughter worked for Caring Hands for almost five years and was
very shocked by this incident. Her daughter said in the past if there were any issues all they ever had to
do was call and someone came right over and took care of it.
Persson noted that in the last cycle the Commission gave money to an organization who had a water in
the basement issue and feels the Commission should not be giving money to renovation projects that do
not have a basement that is well taken care of. Hightshoe noted that the Commission did give money to
that organization for another project, but not for the site in which Persson is concerned.
There was a consensus for staff to provide more information about inspecting rooming houses, SRO units
and fraternity/sorority houses more than every other year. Plan to place on the December HCDC agenda.
They will consider a recommendation to City Council at that time.
DISCUSS $100,000 IN SURPLUS CDBG FUNDS:
Hightshoe noted that due to program income and carryover funds, the City has a surplus of approximately
$100,000 in CDBG funds available to program. The funds will be added to FY18 funds allocated this
winter.
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 20, 2016
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Byler asked for an estimate of the total budget for FY18. Hightshoe said they are anticipating the same
amount of federal funds as received last year. That is good news, because they are usually told to plan
for a five- to ten-percent decrease annually.
CONSIDER AMENDMENTS TO FY2016-2020 CITY STEPS:
Hightshoe stated Staff met with clients at Iowa City Compassion and the mobile health clinic at Broadway
Neighborhood Center and the summary of those meetings was attached to the Commission’s packets.
Hightshoe noted that most of what they heard at those meetings is already a priority. Translation services
were cited as a need, as well.
Persson questioned if the City has tapped into the availability of multiple ethnicities at the University that
could provide translation services. Hightshoe remarked that for Spanish it is fairly easy to assist, but for
example the Congo has 400 dialects and each dialect is very distinct so trying to find a translator can be
difficult.
The Commission discussed possible ideas for assistance for translation services among various agencies
and this will continue to be a priority and something the Commission will encourage the partners to look
at.
DISCUSS EDUCATION AND OUTREACH OBJECTIVES IN THE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING ACTION PLAN:
a. Facilitate tenants’ ability to report housing code violations
b. Promote benefits of subsidized housing programs to landlords and developers
Seiple asked for this to be clarified and that education needs to be a priority.
Byler asked about the current process for reporting housing code violations. Laverman said there is a
web portal (www.icgov.org/ICgovXpress) available, or one can call into the housing office, or there is a
mobile app available on Apple or Android. The app is easy to use, just click on new issue. There is the
ability to add photos. All complaints go immediately to Laverman or the appropriate City department.
Byler asked how many complaints the housing department typically receives. Laverman said he can get
the Commission a list but would estimate 2,000 to 3,000 complaints per year. Those include tall grass or
snow on the sidewalk types of complaints, as well. He said when someone is actually complaining about
a substandard condition in their home, those typically are direct phone calls to his office. Laverman will
ask if they have already informed the landlord and ninety percent of the time they have not. The first step
has to be to allow the landlord a reasonable amount of time to correct the issue before the City can get
involved. Once the landlord is aware of the situation about 85% of the complaints get solved via that
route.
Persson noted that confirms Seiple’s request for more education. There needs to be education for renters
(students and others), especially since Iowa City has a large number of first-time renters.
Laverman stated the City has tried multiple ways to reach renters but it can be difficult and often it is later
in the year and leases for the following year have already been signed. They do make presentations to
the University Student Government once a year. They also reach out to student legal services and go on
KRUI (student radio) to try to reach the students.
The Commissioners discussed getting more housing information on the University’s student websites and
housing websites. Laverman said he has tried. There is also a need for information for renters outside of
the University community as well. Harms suggested producing a bookmark with housing information that
can be distributed and made available at public buildings. Persson noted that once a year there is an
insert with the water bill that lists City departments and phone numbers that is very helpful.
Hightshoe said they do have a flyer they give out to the landlord association every month to help with
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 20, 2016
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education for landlords on changes such a voucher changes.
Byler suggested that the Commission write a letter of support for the City to take with them the next time
they meet with the University on housing and websites.
STAFF/COMMISSION COMMENT:
Hightshoe mentioned that the Towncrest Senior Housing developer contacted her and said they are
hoping for a closing on November 15. She will keep the Commission informed of when a groundbreaking
ceremony will take place.
ADJOURNMENT:
Persson moved to adjourn. Seiple seconded the motion. A vote was taken and motion carried 6-0.
Housing and Community Development Commission
October 20, 2016
Page 5 of 5
Housing and Community Development Commission
Attendance Record
Name Terms Exp. 11/19 1/21 2/18 3/10 4/21 5/19 6/16 8/18 9/15 10/20
Byler, Peter 7/1/17 X X X X X X X X X X
Conger, Syndy 7/1/18 X X X O/E X O/E O/E X X X
Harms, Christine 7/1/19 --- --- --- --- --- X X X X X
Lamkins, Bob 7/1/19 X X X X O/E X O/E O/E X O/E
McKinstry, John 7/1/17 --- --- --- --- --- X X O/E O/E X
Olmstead, Harry 7/1/18 --- X X X X X X X X O/E
Persson, Dottie 7/1/17 X X O/E X O/E X X X X X
Seiple, Emily 7/1/18 X X X X X X X X X X
Vaughan, Paula 7/1/19 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- X X O/E
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Vacant
Date: November 8, 2016
To: Housing and Community Development Commission
From: Community Development Staff
Re: November 17 Meeting
The following is a short description of the agenda items. If you have any questions about the
agenda, or if you are unable to attend the meeting, please contact Kris Ackerson at 356-5247 or
Kristopher-Ackerson@Iowa-City.org.
Monitoring visits
We invite recipients of CDBG and HOME funds to provide annual updates on open projects.
The updates help inform the commissioners about the progress and learn about the agencies’
roles serving the community.
Update on FY17 projects without signed agreement
There are four projects that have not yet signed agreements with the City for the use of CDBG
and HOME funds:
• Mayor’s Youth Empowerment Program – acquisition of home for rental
• The Housing Fellowship – acquisition of home for rental
• Arc of Southeast Iowa – renovation of classroom space
• Shelter House – construction of Housing First Project (FUSE)
Consider approval of draft FY18 CDBG and HOME application materials
The FY18 application form incorporates the new scoring criteria approved by the Housing and
Community Development Commission on August 18, 2016.
Discuss the State of Iowa Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development
2017 Annual Action Plan
Harry Olmstead requested this item on the agenda for discussion. Please see the enclosed
letter for details.
Applications are due on Friday, January 13, 2017 by noon.
NO EXCEPTIONS!
Should you have any questions while completing the application contact
Community Development staff at 319.356.5230 or by email at
Kristopher-Ackerson@iowa-city.org.
Application for FY2018 CDBG
and HOME funds
Review the Application Guide that follows this application form below.
All applications must be typed and 10 point font or larger. Page limits depend on
project type:
o Public facility and planning applications may not be longer than 10 pages.
o Housing applications may not exceed 13 pages (17 pages including the
20-year pro forma).
Housing projects (acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction)
MUST complete and submit the pro forma (excel format) provided
by the City with this application. Housing applications submitted
without the City’s pro forma will not be considered.
Please remember that only one project proposal may be submitted on each
application. Use separate applications for each project proposal.
Email the completed application to Kristopher-Ackerson@iowa-city.org. Emailed
applications must receive a confirmation email from City staff before the application
deadline to be considered for funding. Email is preferred but you may send your
application by certified or registered mail; overnight delivery service e.g., Federal
Express; deliver in person and have the application date/time stamped by a
Neighborhood Services representative.
General Information
1. Project Name and Address:
2. Type of Project (check one): Homeownership Rental* Tenant Based Rent Asst.
Rehabilitation* Public Facility Other
*Rental and Rental Rehabilitation projects require the completion of rental housing pro forma
3. Lead Applicant Name:
Applicant Address:
Contact Person, Title:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
E-mail Address:
DUNS Number:
4. Secondary Applicant (if applicable):
Applicant Address:
Contact Person, Title:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
E-mail Address:
5. Type of Applicant (check one):
Community Housing Development Organization Private non-profit organization
Private for-profit, individual or partnership applicant Public Organization
6. Amount of HOME/CDBG Funds Requested: $________________
7. Did you attend the Applicant Workshop? No
Yes, attended on December 15
Yes, attended on January 4
8. Provide a brief, one paragraph description of the proposed project:
Section 1 – Need/Priority
9. Please specify the one or two most applicable priority need(s) this application addresses, as
shown in the 2016-2020 CITY STEPS Plan, and explain how this project will meet this/those
need(s).
Section 2 – Leveraging Resources/Budget
10. For housing projects only, please provide the requested loan terms and affordability
period:
Principal
Amount
Interest
Rate
Loan
Amortization
(Years)
Affordability
Period
(Years)
Yearly
Payment
Terms
Requested*
$
*Financing terms will be based on project feasibility and the ability to repay the loan. Terms approved by City
Council may be different than what is requested.
11a. Please complete the table below showing the types and amounts of funding being
requested for the proposed project. Please check the appropriate box if the funding
source is committed. If not a loan, leave loan terms blank. If not committed, please
indicate when the applicant will apply for funds in Question 15.
Funding Source & Type: Amount Int. rate
Amo rtization
Term Committed?
Iowa City CDBG or HOME
Funding (public)
$ Yes No
State of Iowa HOME or
CDBG (public)
$ Yes No
IFA – Low Income
Housing Tax Credits
(public)
$ Yes No
Bank Loan (private) $ Yes No
Applicant Contribution of
Equity (private)
$ Yes No
Other Public Resources
(please list)
$ Yes No
Other Private Resources
(please list)
$ Yes No
Total $
11b. Please provide the uses of funds for the project.
Uses of Funds (if applicable)
Cost
estimate
received?
y/n Amount
Name of entity providing
cost estimate
Acquisition:
Building Acquisition $
Land Acquisition $
Site Improvements $
Construction / Rehabilitation $
Professional Fees $
Construction Finance $
Permanent Finance $
Developer Fee / Overhead $
Reserves $
Other (please specify): $
$
Total (Must equal total in 11a) $
Amount of Private Funds $ ______________ (a)
Amount of Public Funds $ ______________ (b)
Total Project Funding $ ______________ (c) a + b
Number of bedrooms or persons served ______________ (d)
Total Cost Per bedroom or person served $_________________ (e) c ÷ d
11c. What percentage of the proposed budget will be made up of private funds?
__________%
12. Describe any community partnerships or volunteers that will contribute to the project.
13. Identify any identity of interest (IOI) relationships with the applicant and/or project owner,
i.e. General Partner has a financial interest in the construction company, etc.
14. For housing projects only, program regulations require a minimum 25% match for HOME
funding. Describe how your organization or the proposed project will help the City of Iowa
City meet this match requirement for local HOME funds.
Local HOME funds requested: $___________________ x .25 = $__________ Local Match
Section 3 – Feasibility/Need for Subsidy
15. Briefly outline the proposed timetable for the commitment and expenditure of the funding
being requested (include other project factors such as rezoning, construction schedule, or
application(s) for other funding). If applicant plans to apply for funds not committed to the
project yet, include the anticipated date for application. Please Note: If funded, this
schedule will be used for any project agreement for the use of CDBG\HOME funding.
Date: Description of Activity:
July 1, 2016 Beginning of City Fiscal Year and Project Start Date
17. To help promote the efficient use of federal, state, and local funding, please describe how
the project will maintain long-term (in excess of CDBG\HOME program requirements) or
permanent affordability or public assistance; and describe how the project will provide for
affordable housing or public assistance at rates or prices lower than those in the existing
market.
18. In what manner or form will the project proceed if it is awarded less than full funding? If
there are several components, how will they be prioritized?
Section 4 – Impact/Benefit to the Community
19. Please indicate the number of persons that will be served by the proposed project by
income category. (Please Note: If this application is funded, the information in this table
will be used as income targeting for the CDBG/HOME Agreement).
Public Facility Housing
0 - 30% median income _______ persons (a) _______ households (a)
31 – 50% median income _______ persons (b) _______ households (b)
51 – 60% median income _______ persons (c) _______ households (c)
61 - 80% median income _______ persons (d) _______ households (d)
Over 80% median income _______ persons (e) _______ households (e)
Total _______ persons (f) _______ households (f)
Percent LMI _______ (a+b+c+d) ÷ f _______ (a+b+c+d) ÷ f
Section 5 – Capacity/History of the Applicant
20. Please list amount of CDBG and/or HOME funds received within the last four City fiscal
years and the status of the project(s) undertaken.
Fiscal Year Funds Recv’d
Budgeted
Amount
Amount Expended
(as of December 31)
Date Project
Completed
July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014 $ $
July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2015 $ $
July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016 $ $
July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017 $ $
*Six months remaining in FY17 at time of this application.
21. Is the applicant (including partners, co-applicants, etc.) currently in compliance with all
federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations, including any CDBG and/or HOME
funded projects?
Yes No
If “NO” or a matter is currently in litigation please provide the name of the case and explain the basis
for the case.
22. Please describe the education and experience of the key staff who will be implementing
the project. Staff does not include volunteers, board members and consultants. If utilized,
please identify what role a consultant will play in the development of this project.
23. Please describe your organization’s structure, officers, and staff.
24. For housing projects, please provide a summary of your organization’s portfolio. Include
how many rental units you own/manage, how many homes you have built/rehabilitated/sold
and what projects are in the pipeline.
25. For housing projects, please identify the relevant market factors that will assist the City in
verifying the demand for the proposed housing based on the City of Iowa City HOME
Market Analysis Policy for New Rental Construction, Rental Rehab. & Acquisition of
Existing Homes (rental), or New Owner-Occupied Home Construction & Acquisition of
Existing Homes (owner-occupied). If the project is large or complicated, the City may
require a Market Analysis to support the project before entering a legally binding
agreement for funds. This policy is not applicable to projects requesting funds for tenant
based rental assistance, homeowner rehabilitation, downpayment assistance and CHDO
operating expenses.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 1
Applicant Guide
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Programs
This guide outlines requirements for applicants seeking Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
and/or HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) program funds through the City of Iowa City.
Notes to applicants
1) HCDC strongly encourages all applicants to attend one of the CDBG/HOME Applicant
Workshops (see Application Timeline below).
2) First consideration for funding will go to housing (not including CHDO operating expenses) and
public facility projects of $50,000 or more. No more than two public facility projects will be
awarded funding.
3) The application (and the pro forma for housing applications) must be substantially complete for
HCDC consideration. The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) will not
review any materials submitted by the applicant after the deadline unless the Commission
requests it.
4) Please review the City’s Strategic Plan (www.icgov.org/strategicplan) to determine if your project
fits into the identified priorities. If so, please identify in the application.
Application Timeline
1) Applicant workshops at Emma Harvat Hall, City Hall December 15, 2016 at 11:00 AM
January 4, 2017 at 11:00 AM
2) Applications Due January 13, 2017 at 12 PM
3) HCDC Meeting – Question/Answer with Applicants February 16 at 6:30 PM
4) HCDC Meeting – Recommendations March 9 at 6:30 PM
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 2
Part I. Estimated Federal Funding Available
In FY18 the City of Iowa City is expecting to have available approximately $1,200,000 in federal funds
(including entitlements and program income) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD). The City has approximately $485,000 available for allocation to recipients after
Council set-asides have been removed for economic development, owner-occupied housing
rehabilitation, administration, neighborhood infrastructure, and aid to agencies. Of the $450,000
available, approximately $347,000 must be used for HOME eligible activities, which focus on affordable
housing activities: rehabilitation or new construction of rental housing, tenant based rent assistance, and
homeownership opportunities. The HOME program requires not less than 15% of the HOME
entitlement be reserved for Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs). In FY18 this
set-aside is approximately $58,000.
Part II. Application Requirements and Considerations
Applicants should evaluate the following HUD guidelines as well as City policies contained in CITY
STEPS when considering the types of proposals, funding estimates, and time schedules for achieving
their program/project goals.
Ineligible Activities
The following types of activities that are ineligible include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Public service eligible activities such as operations or salaries.
• Buildings for general conduct of government and expenses required to conduct the regular
responsibilities of local government, e.g. street maintenance, public buildings for government.
• Political, religious and lobbying activities, income payments, such as rent assistance and
mortgage payments. HOME only: tenant based rent assistance is an allowable activity.
• CDBG only: New housing construction, except for residential facilities providing shelter for
persons with special needs (homeless shelters, convalescent homes, halfway houses, and
group homes).
• Purchase of construction equipment.
NOTE: The purchase or lease of furnishings, equipment, or other personal property (such as vehicles)
needed for an eligible public service is eligible only under the CDBG public service category; however,
the City will not be considering public service activities under this allocation process. Additional
requirements and CDBG award limitations may apply, please contact Neighborhood Services staff to
discuss.
Eligible Activities
a. Activities that can be carried out with CDBG funds include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Acquiring real property, demolishing structures and clearing property, and relocation
assistance for residents of property being demolished.
• Rehabilitation or preservation of residential and nonresidential structures, including
weatherization, painting, accessibility improvements, emergency repairs and comprehensive
rehabilitation.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 3
• Construction of public facilities and improvements, such as water and sewer facilities,
infrastructure repairs and installation of curb ramps, construction of neighborhood centers
and installation of accessible playground equipment.
b. Activities that can be carried out with HOME funds include the following:
• Acquisition of real property (including Homeownership Assistance), payment of “soft” costs
associated with a project, demolition and clearing property, site and infrastructure improve-
ments, and relocation assistance for persons being displaced by a HOME activity.
• Rehabilitation or preservation of residential structures (comprehensive rehabilitation only).
• Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) for a period of up to 24 months.
• New construction of affordable housing units (rental or owner-occupied).
• Operational expenses and Capacity Building for Community Housing Development Organi-
zations (CHDOs) within the limit of 5% of Iowa City's HOME allocation.
National Objective
ALL proposals must benefit low-moderate income individuals.
a. CDBG Funds
The National Objective of the CDBG Program is the “development of viable urban communities
by providing decent housing and suitable living environments, and expanding economic
opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income.” At least 51% of the program
beneficiaries (persons or households) must have incomes at or below 80% of the local median
income category. [For programs that directly fund individual households (e.g. housing rehab), all
of the households must earn less than 80% of the median household income.]
Applicants must document that the National Objective is being met. While the CDBG program
allows self-certification of income, the household must certify their income with their signature.
HUD also requires that a certain percentage of the participants provide source documentation
such as pay stubs or a Social Security statement to further verify the household’s income. This
source documentation must be kept in the client’s file and is subject to monitoring when City or
HUD staff review the client files. The City must approve this percentage based on the program
and number of beneficiaries – usually set between two and five percent.
b. HOME Funds
The national objective of the HOME program is the provision of safe and decent affordable
housing. All activities undertaken with HOME funds must benefit persons or households below
80% of median family income and 90% of the HOME assisted units must be targeted to persons
and/or households below 60% of the median family income.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 4
Median household income limits for HOME-funded projects in Iowa City:
The CDBG statute pertaining to the low-moderate income national objective specifies criteria for deter-
mining low- and moderate-income benefit.
a. The activity must be carried out in an area or neighborhood consisting predominantly of low-
moderate income persons, or the activity must involve facilities or services designed for use
predominantly by low-moderate income persons. Demographic information is available at the
Neighborhood & Development Services Department. In some instances, applicants may need to
conduct a survey of the potential beneficiaries to determine income eligibility.
b. Housing that is being improved, as part of a project must be occupied predominantly by low-
moderate income persons.
c. Job creation or retention as an activity must involve employment of predominantly low and
moderate-income persons.
Performance Schedule and Payment
Reimbursements can be made after the contract has been formalized. Expenses incurred before July 1,
2017 or before a contract has been entered may not be reimbursable and may jeopardize all the
CDBG/HOME funds awarded to the project. Disbursements can be made upon receipt of 1) invoices for
labor, materials and services rendered, and 2) signed lien waivers (as appropriate) covering all amounts
to be paid. In some instances, pre-agreement costs may be reimbursed to applicants; however,
Neighborhood Services staff must be contacted prior to making any pre-agreement disbursements to
verify if the cost may be reimbursed. In case of minor cost overruns or requests for additional funding,
the City Manager and staff may approve a contract amendment that is non-substantial. In the case of
substantial changes (as defined in the Citizen Participation Plan) the Housing and Community
Development Commission and City Council must approve the change and an amended agreement is
required.
Budget Considerations
In estimating the amount of the proposal or the project budget, applicants should try to obtain
documentation for the costs and consider the following expenses:
• Appraisals, legal fees, title opinions and surveying costs for property acquisition projects.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 5
• Building permits, engineering or surveying costs, zoning application fees, professional fees,
advertising and bidding costs for rehabilitation and building projects.
• HOME funds are required to be matched at the rate of one match dollar for each four HOME
dollars or 25% of the HOME funds being requested. The City has made a commitment to
match local HOME dollars, however, we also expect applicants for local HOME funds to
contribute to meeting this matching contribution (see HOME regulations for eligible forms of
match).
• The City requests that applicants leverage private funding, volunteers, and in-kind
contributions whenever possible and to include this information on your application. These
contributions are worth points in the ranking sheets and are included in HCDC’s evaluation of
your application.
• Construction estimates should be realistic. Funds remaining after the proposed work is
completed will revert back to the CDBG line of credit.
• Applicants can apply for grants and/or loans.
• Other project costs such as compliance with HUD regulations (audits, labor standards,
environmental studies, fair housing, etc.) listed in Part III below should also be included.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 6
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 7
PART III. Housing
Additional Information Requirements. Before an applicant may enter an agreement with the City, the
applicant must submit updated information such as, but not limited to, the project schedule, sources
and uses statement, construction budget (if applicable), and pro forma (if applicable). All other funding
sources must be identified and verification submitted to the City to complete a subsidy layering
analysis when multiple public funding sources are utilized.
Appraised Value at Project Completion. Each housing project, except minor home repairs, funded with
CDBG and/or HOME funds must have an appraised value at project completion that demonstrates
adequate equity to secure any liens.
Site Location. One of the City’s goals is to encourage the distribution of housing and residential
facilities (e.g. permanent housing – rental and homeownership, transitional housing, homeless
shelters, and special needs housing) throughout Iowa City. See the attached Affordable Housing
Location Model to view where new City-assisted rental housing may be located. The map is also
available at www.icgov.org/actionplan.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 8
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 9
PART IV. Compliance with Federal Regulatory Requirements
All CDBG/HOME contracts include requirements imposed by various Federal-sponsoring agencies.
These include procurement standards for labor, materials, supplies and services not only related to the
project but also to the applicant's operation.
• Procurement standards and subcontracting requirements are set forth in 2 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) Part 200 and 24 CFR Part 84. The following list briefly describes the main
points in contracting for services and purchasing supplies and materials.
• Affirmative efforts shall be made to utilize small and minority-owned businesses or sources of
supplies and services. Conflict of Interest rules will also apply.
• Construction contracts in excess of $2,000 shall comply with the Fair Labor Standards Acts.
Specifically, 1) the Davis-Bacon Act which requires contractors to pay wages to laborers and
mechanics at a rate not less than the minimum wages specified in a wage determination made
by the Secretary of Labor, 2) Copeland Anti-Kick Back Act which prohibits employers from
inducing employees to give up any part of the compensation to which they are otherwise entitled,
and 3) the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act which requires contractors to
compute wages on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the
standard workweek shall be permissible if the worker is compensated at a rate of 1½ times the
basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the workweek. No worker shall be
required to work in unsanitary, dangerous or hazardous surroundings.
• Contracts over $10,000 shall contain requirements relating to Equal Employment Opportunity.
• Provisions for termination shall also be included in all contracts.
• Records should be kept for all procurements. Construction projects for more than $150,000 must
utilize the competitive sealed bids (formal advertisement) method of procurement. Procurement
by small purchase procedures shall be utilized for projects $150,000 or less. Price or rate
quotations shall be obtained from an adequate number of qualified sources under this method.
• Contracts in excess of $25,000 shall contain provisions and conditions that allow for
administrative, contractual or legal remedies in instances in which contractors violate or breach
contract terms.
• Contracts in excess of $100,000 shall meet bonding and Section 3 requirements. Minimum bond
requirements include: bid guarantee equal to 5% of bid price, performance bond for 100% of
contract price and payment bond for 100% of contract price.
• Provisions regarding federal regulations on Non-discrimination, Equal Employment, Affirmative
Marketing and Fair Housing.
• Acquisition, Displacement and Relocation are also contained in the Agreement.
• Lead Based Paint regulations regarding interim controls and abatement may also apply.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 10
PART V. Financial Management
Standards for financial management and record keeping are provided in 2 CFR Part 200 and 24 CFR
Part 84. Local accountants and agency directors experienced with federal requirements may be helpful
resources.
• Each recipient shall have a financial management system that provides effective control over and
accountability for all funds, property, and other assets, must identify the source and application of
funds for federally-sponsored activities, and permit the accurate, complete, and timely disclosure of
financial results in accordance with the reporting requirements of the City and HUD.
• A separate ledger for the CDBG and/or HOME account is strongly recommended.
• Appropriate time distribution records must be kept for employees paid with CDBG funds in addition
to other funds.
• All project-related expenditures must be supported by third party documentation (invoices, contracts,
and purchase orders). Lien waivers are required from all contractors and subcontractors.
• Reductions in project costs or increases in the commitment of other funding, if any, shall be brought
to the immediate attention of staff. The impacts of these changes must be discussed with staff and
appropriate reductions in CDBG and/or HOME funds may be made on a pro-rated, case-by-case
basis.
PART VI. Reporting and Monitoring
Neighborhood Services staff will monitor all aspects of the project beginning with pre-agreement
activities, goal setting to project closeout. Any project changes must be approved by the City.
All notices and reports should be directed to:
Neighborhood Services
410 East Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240
Periodically, Neighborhood Services staff and HCDC members will conduct monitoring visits to review
project progress, financial management, construction contracts, time records related to the project, as
well as client statistics. Staff will attempt to give reasonable notice prior to the site visit.
In most cases, a financial audit of the project expenditures will be required. Qualified individuals who are
sufficiently independent of the agency and can produce unbiased opinions and conclusions should
conduct these audits. Audit reports should be submitted within six months of project completion and final
disbursement of funds.
For organizations that expect to receive more than $750,000 in federal assistance from all sources are
required to have an audit covering the financial activities of the organization as well as the project
disbursements will be required as set forth in 2 CFR Part 200.
For CDBG projects, all records relating to the project should be kept at least four years after the
submission of the Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) in which the
activity is reported as complete. The CDBG Agreement should be retained until the end of the
compliance period.
For HOME projects, all records shall be maintained as required in 92.508 Recordkeeping depending on
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 11
the type of project (rental, homeownership, or tenant-based rental assistance).
The City of Iowa City requires quarterly reports and has a standardized reporting form. For rental and
homeownership projects, the applicant must complete project close-out forms and submit to the City
upon project completion. The period of affordability does not begin until the City has been notified and
the data entered into HUD’s information and management system (IDIS). The compliance period will
vary depending upon the regulatory requirements of the CDBG and/or HOME program and the
information contained within the CDBG/HOME application. During the compliance period, Neighborhood
Services staff will request records relating to the stated purpose of the project to see if goals have been
carried out, to review the low and moderate income benefit requirements as established by HUD, and to
monitor the financial status of the organization.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 12
Summary of Priority Needs (2016-2020 CITY STEPS)
For the five-year period of 2016 through 2020, the City has identified the following as priority needs for
CDBG & HOME funding. Your application must meet an identified need to be funded.
PUBLIC FACILITIES:
Priority:
Matrix
Code:HUD Category
Child Care 03M Child Care Centers
Chronic Substance Abuse 03P Health Facilities
Domestic Violence 03C Homeless Faciliities
Elderly 03A Senior Centers
Employment Training 3 Public Facility
Homeless Services 03C Homeless Faciliities
Mentally Ill 03P Health Facilities
Persons with Disabilities 03B Handicapped Centers
Persons with HIV/AIDS 03S Facilities for AIDS Patients
Transportation 3 Public Facility
Youth Services (unaccompanied youth inc.)03D Youth Centers
PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE: (Set-Aside)
Priority:
Matrix
Code:HUD Category
Serve primarily non-student LMI 03L Sidewalk Improvements (inc. curb cuts)
Census Tracts 03K Street Improvements (inc. street lights)
03E Neighborhood Facilities
03F Parks, Recreational Facilities
03I Flood, Drainage Improvement
03N Tree Planting
01 Acq. of Real Property
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: (Set-Aside)
Priority:
Matrix
Code:HUD Category
Micro-enterprise Development 18C Micro-Enterprise Assistance
Façade Improvements (URA)14E
Rehab; Publicly or Privately Owned
Commercial
HOUSING:
Priority:
Matrix
Code:HUD Category
Expand Affordable Rental Housing:01 Acquisition of Real Property
Development 12 Construction of Housing
Acquistion or Rehabilitation 14G Acq. for Rehabilitation
Tenant Based Rent Assistance 05S Rental Housing Subsidies
05T Security Deposits (homeless)
Expand Owner Housing
Downpayment 13 Direct Homeownership Assistance
Preserve Rental & Owner Housing
Rehabilitation 14A & B Rehabilitation (includes accessiblity)
14F Energy Assistance Improvements
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 13
Resolution 04-68, Approved 3/2/04
Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy
From time to time there may be Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and/or HOME Investment
Partnership Program (HOME) projects that do not meet the anticipated schedule for implementation as
presented to the Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC). These circumstances may
be due to unforeseen events (e.g. unfunded applications for other financing).
HCDC recognizes the need to utilize CDBG, HOME and other funding as effectively and efficiently as
possible to meet the needs of low-moderate income household for housing, jobs and services within
Iowa City.
To assist HCDC in evaluating a project’s status and ability to proceed the following policy is hereby
adopted to begin with Fiscal Year ’04 projects beginning July 1, 2003:
1. All CDBG and HOME projects will have entered into a formal agreement with the City of Iowa
City for the utilization of federal funds by September 30 each year. Should a recipient fail to
meet this threshold, the project will be reviewed by HCDC to evaluate if extenuating
circumstances exist. If extenuating circumstances exist and it is anticipated the project will
proceed, a new timeline will be established for the completion of the project. If circumstances do
not warrant an extension of time, HCDC may recommend the recapture and re-use of the funds
to the City Council.
2. All CDBG projects (except applicants for LIHTCs) will have expended a minimum of fifty percent
(50%) of the assistance provided for the proposed project by March 15 each year. This provides
the recipient with approximately 255 days following the start of the fiscal year to reach this
threshold for CDBG projects. All HOME projects will expend their funds on a timely basis per the
applicable HOME regulation. Should a recipient fail to meet these thresholds, all unexpended
CDBG/HOME funding will be recaptured by the City of Iowa City and recommendations be
made by the HCDC for re-use of the funds or HCDC may allow the recipient to retain the funds
for the previously approved project.
3. If housing projects are applying for other funds through various state or federal agencies, the
recipient must apply for those funds in the first available application period offered. Should a
recipient fail to meet this application threshold, all CDBG/HOME funding will be recaptured by
the City of Iowa City and recommendations be made by the HCDC for re-use of the funds.
4. Should a recipient be unsuccessful in obtaining the funds listed in the application in the
application round immediately following the allocation of local CDBG/HOME funds, and the
project will not be able to proceed without the aforementioned funds, all CDBG/HOME funds will
be recaptured by the City of Iowa City and recommendations be made by the HCDC for re-use
of the funds or HCDC may allow the recipient to retain the funds for the previously approved
project. If the project is unsuccessful in obtaining the required funds listed in the application
after two consecutive funding rounds following the allocation of local CDBG/HOME funds, the
City of Iowa City will recapture all CDBG/HOME funds.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 14
Resolution 10-393, Approved 9/7/2010
CDBG and HOME Program Investment Policies
Economic Development
Economic development projects making application to the CDBG Economic Development Fund will be
reviewed by the Council Economic Development Committee. The Council Economic Development Committee
will make a recommendation to the City Council for each project proposed for funding. Said recommendation
shall include the amount of CDBG assistance to be allocated and the terms of investment.
Typically, for-profit business projects will receive low-interest loans; whereas, non-profits may be recommended
for forgivable loans or grants. Decisions regarding investment terms for economic development projects will be
made based on the nature of the project including, but not limited to, the risk, potential for growth, the number
of and quality of jobs created for low-moderate income persons, the ability to repay a loan and the amount of
other funding leveraged.
Housing
Rental Housing. Except as noted below, the interest rate for rental housing activities will be zero percent (0%)
for non-profit owned projects and prime rate (determined at the time the CDBG/HOME agreement is executed
by the City) minus two points for for-profit owned projects with an amortization period up to thirty (30) years or
the period of affordability, whichever is less.
Homeownership. Each year Iowa City adopts resale/recapture provisions that apply to all HOME assisted
homebuyer projects. The recapture/resale provisions shall be the same for both CDBG and HOME assisted
homebuyer projects. These provisions are set forth in the Annual Action Plan for the year the funds were
allocated to the Subrecipient/Recipient.
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA). All HOME funds provided for TBRA will be in the form of a grant.
Exceptions. The City may grant a different interest rate and/or a different repayment option based on the nature
of the project including, but not limited to, the revenue generated, the ability to repay a loan, the type of housing
provided, the beneficiaries, the amount of other funding leveraged and the location of the site.
Public Facilities
The City of Iowa City, as the recipient of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, utilizes these
funds for “public facilities” projects as defined in 24 CFR 570.201 (c) that are completed by the City and/or
subrecipients. The following policy applies to CDBG assistance provided to non-governmental subrecipients
(“governmental” includes only jurisdictions with taxing authority as provided for in Iowa Code).
Projects that receive an allocation by the City of Iowa City will receive an earned grant, as defined herein,
which will be secured by a mortgage or other comparable security instrument. The compliance term of the
earned grant will be determined by the formula also provided herein. At the end of the applicable compliance
term the lien or other security instrument will be released by the City. If the real property is leased, the lease
shall be for a period that matches or exceeds the compliance term of the earned grant.
• Earned Grant: A lien against the real property being assisted, or other comparable security, which is
repaid only upon transfer of title, rental of the property, or termination of services or occupancy as
outlined in the applicable CDBG Agreement. If the subrecipient fully satisfies the terms outlined in the
applicable CDBG Agreement the mortgage against the property, or other security instrument, will be
released by the City following the completion of the compliance period that begins on the date of
execution of the mortgage or security instrument.
Iowa City CDBG and HOME Applicant Guide 15
• Earned Grant Formula: The total amount of CDBG assistance allocated to a subrecipient in any one
City fiscal year for a “public facility” project divided by $10,000 equals the number of CDBG compliance
years for the Earned Grant. (For example: $20,000 in CDBG assistance divided by $10,000 would equal
a compliance term of 2 years or 24 months). If the Earned Grant Formula results in a compliance term of
less than one year (12 months) the minimum compliance term shall be one year (12 months). The
maximum compliance term for any CDBG assistance shall be no more than twenty (20) years.
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0 21Miles Prepared by: K. AckersonNovember 2016Elementary boundaries
Data Source(s): ICCSD,Johnson County
Document Path: S:\Iowa City GIS\PCD_Maps\_Comm_Dev\Location Criteria\Data Analysis_Schools_2017.mxd
From:HarryO3
To:Kristopher Ackerson; Tracy Hightshoe
Cc:Peter Byler
Subject:FW: 2017 Draft Annual Action Plan - Consolidated Plan for Housing & Community Development Now Available
Date:Tuesday, November 08, 2016 10:40:10 AM
Attachments:OCTF Comments to IEDA on Draft 2016 Annual Action Plan.doc
Have you seen the attachment? I wold think we may want to have it on our agenda and make astatement. I would appreciate sent to our commission.HarryO
Sent from my Galaxy Tab® A-------- Original message --------From: "Owens, Caitlin B" <caitlin-owens@uiowa.edu>Date: 11/07/2016 11:24 AM (GMT-06:00)To: "Ann Gallagher (mag92510@gmail.com)" <mag92510@gmail.com>, "Ashlea Lantz(ashlea.lantz@gmail.com)" <ashlea.lantz@gmail.com>, "Bruce Teague(bruce.teague@caringhandsandmore.com)" <bruce.teague@caringhandsandmore.com>, "Dawn Francis
(dawn@iowasilc.org)" <dawn@iowasilc.org>, Gary McDermott <gmacvet@gmail.com>, Harry Olmstead<Harryo3@aol.com>, Ingrid Wensel <wenselingrid@gmail.com>, "June Klein-Bacon (jklein@biaia.org)"<jklein@biaia.org>, "Kathleen O'Leary (koleary38@gmail.com)" <koleary38@gmail.com>, Kay Marcel<kay.b.marcel@gmail.com>, Kevin Dalin <kevin.dalin@tech4impact.com>, "Kris Graves
(kgraves@live.com)" <kgraves@live.com>, "Sandler, Leonard" <leonard-sandler@uiowa.edu>, "MicheleMeadors (michelemeadors@gmail.com)" <michelemeadors@gmail.com>, Paul Kiburz<pkiburz@mchsi.com>, Randy Davis <randy.davis@mahaska.org>, Reyma McCoy McDeid
<Reyma@CentralIowaCIL.com>, "Roberts, Mary J" <mary-roberts-1@uiowa.edu>, "Roxanne Cogil(efiowa@efncil.org)" <efiowa@efncil.org>, "Keninger, Tracy" <tkeninger@eastersealsia.org>Subject: FW: 2017 Draft Annual Action Plan - Consolidated Plan for Housing & Community DevelopmentNow Available
I wanted to send along the info below from Terri Rosonke regarding the Consolidated Plan for Housingand Community Development 2017 Annual Action Plan that is currently open for public comment.Apologies for being a bit behind on getting it out. I wanted to send to the whole Taskforce, and
particularly call it out for those who participate on the Community Access Committee. This will be onthe agenda to discuss on the November 9th Community Access Committee, but please feel free to sendany thoughts or questions along to me ahead of time if you’d like.
Below is a short overview for those who make need a refresher or be unfamiliar with the plan, and
attached are the comments the Taskforce submitted last year.
The Iowa Economic Development Authority is responsible for administering the state’s CommunityDevelopment Block Grant, which is federally funded by HUD. States receive a certain amount each yearbased on how much congress allocates, and then individual states divvy it up among certain programs.There are guidelines HUD provides regarding things that have to be done with it, etc.
Every five years they do a consolidated plan, and then each year they put together an action plan thatgoes out for public comment. The Taskforce has submitted public comment the last few years and havehad contact from staff from IEDA and Terri Rosonke from IFA to answer questions and suggest areasto focus on.
Thanks so much,
Caitlin
Having trouble viewing this email? Click here
Oct. 18, 2016
State of Iowa Consolidated Plan for Housing & CommunityDevelopment DRAFT 2017 Annual Action Plan Notice of Availability
The Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authorityrecently announced the availability of a Draft of the 2017 Action Plan for theConsolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development as of October17, 2016.
The report details the housing and community development plans for the2017 program year with funds provided to the State of Iowa by the U.S.Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The programs covered include:
Community Development Block Grant Non-Entitlement (CDBG) ProgramHOME Investment Partnership ActHousing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)
National Housing Trust Fund (HTF)Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program
The public is encouraged to comment through 4:30 p.m. November 14, 2016.
Please direct comments to: Leslie Leager, IEDA200 East Grand Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50309515.725.3071
Public Hearing:November 7, 2016 at 3:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.IEDA office 200 East Grand Ave., Des Moines
Southwest 1st floor conference room
Iowa Finance Authority, 2015 Grand Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312SafeUnsubscribe™ terri.rosonke@iowa.gov
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I o w a ’ s O l m s t e a d C o n s u m e r T a s k F o r c e
To learn more about the Olmstead Decision and its implementation in Iowa,
visit http://www.olmsteadrealchoicesia.org
November 24, 2015
Iowa Economic Development Authority
ATTN: Leslie Leager
200 East Grand
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Re: Consolidated Plan for Housing and Community Development Draft 2016
Annual Action Plan
The Iowa Olmstead Consumer Taskforce welcomes this opportunity to comment
on the draft 2016 Annual Action for the Consolidated Plan for Housing and
Community Development. This letter supplements the recommendations the
taskforce made to the Five Year Plan that were intended to increase and improve
independent living options and the housing stock accessible to and usable by
persons with disabilities.
We acknowledge the plan’s use of Community Development Block Grant and
HOME funds to help homeowners rehabilitate their homes to improve
accessibility and usability. Promoting and incentivizing home ownership repair
and accessibility directly aligns with the principles enunciated in the U.S.
Supreme Court Olmstead decision and allows families to live as independently
as possible in their homes and communities. These CDBG and HOME programs
are an important first step in providing minimal accessibility, which mostly
benefits Iowans who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
As you know, there was a shortage of affordable and accessible housing in the
state long before floods and tornados devastated several areas of our State in
recent years. Many Iowans who have experienced injury, illness or disability, or
who are simply getting older, find they cannot enter, navigate freely or live
independently in the homes or apartments they own or rent. They are forced to
leave their homes and communities, risk institutionalization or spend thousands
of dollars in home access modifications because houses or apartments with
fewer than four dwelling units are not covered by any federal or state accessibility
code.
We urge you to fund programs and housing projects in rural and urban
communities that require or strongly incentivize the incorporation of universal
design features and guidelines. This approach should ensure that people of all
ages and abilities can live in publicly-funded homes or apartments during
different life stages. The 2016 Annual Action Plan includes pilot programs for gut
rehabilitation and historic preservation. These pilot programs present an ideal
opportunity to evaluate the feasibility, costs and benefits of universal design. The
Washington Court and Bluff Street projects in Dubuque are prime examples of
what can be accomplished using public and private funds. Washington Court is
an adaptive reuse of the Dubuque Casket Company building to create thirty-six
affordable rental housing units and office space for two non-profit organizations
serving the needs of local residents. The Washington Court Housing Survey: A
Study of Accessibility and Universal Design in Affordable Housing, chronicles the
project from start to finish.
The Step By Step Project at 759 Bluff Street also involved historic preservation
and the rehabilitation of an 1896 brownstone to bring affordable, sustainable and
accessible housing to Dubuque’s downtown. The entire 4,500 square foot project
incorporated universal design (exceeding ADA compliance) with historic
elements, providing individuals with disabilities a beautiful, quality housing option
in close proximity to numerous community amenities. It also involved recycling of
many materials during the deconstruction phase with participation from students
in the Housing Education and Rehabilitation Training (HEART) program.
To implement these recommendations, the Annual Plan should be modified in
three ways. First, require that the successful applicants for the two pilot programs
include a minimum number of universal design features that go beyond the
accessibility guidelines of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, the
Fair Housing Act and state building code. Tried-and-true features and
construction techniques that apply principles of universal design are used by
several states in their Low Income Housing Tax Credit Qualified Allocation Plan,
including Arkansas, Virginia, and many others. The Iowa Finance Authority has
the expertise or connections to assist IEDA in crafting a list of required features.
Second, increase significantly the points awarded in the Iowa Green Street
Criteria for universal design in gut rehabilitation, historic preservation and new
construction. Ensure that applicants for the two pilot programs have to meet or
exceed the Green Streets Criteria.
Third, require that pilot programs consult with individuals or organizations with
experience and expertise in universal design before and after the awards are
announced. The list could include the Iowa Olmstead Consumer Taskforce, the
University of Iowa Clinical Law Programs, and architects, designers or
developers with the requisite credential. The City of Dubuque required that
Gronen Restoration, Inc., consult with the University of Iowa Clinical Law
Programs as a condition of receiving federal funds in 2005. As noted earlier in
this letter, the Clinic furnished no-cost technical assistance and consultant
services to Gronen Restoration, Inc. as they rehabilitated a historic casket factory
into affordable rental units and office space.
The 2016 Annual Action Plan states that IFA and IEDA are committed to
partnering with the Iowa Olmstead Consumer Taskforce and the Iowa
Department of Human Services to meet the strategic priorities outlined in Iowa’s
2011-2015 Olmstead Plan. We appreciate the efforts agency personnel make to
solicit our input and to update use on programs and activities that actively
promote community integration of people with disabilities.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Taskforce with questions or to discuss
any of our suggestions further.
Sincerely,
June Klein-Bacon, Chair