The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink About2020-05-07 Info PacketI t dr 1 -� CITY OE IOWA CITY ww.icgov.org City Council Information Packet May 7, 2020 IP1. Council Tentative Meeting Schedule Miscellaneous IP2. Memo from Neighborhood & Development Services Director: Comparison of the UniverCity and South District Programs IP3. Email from Judith Pfohl: May 5th Iowa City refuses park user input IP4. Email from Pam Nims: Re: Prairie Conversions [Staff Response Included] IPS. 2020 Building Statistics IP6. Bar Check Report: April 2020 IP7. Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I I - Refuse IP8. Statehouse News: How is COVI D-19 Impacting You? May 7, 2020 City of Iowa City Page 1 Item Number: 1. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Council Tentative Meeting Schedule ATTACHMENTS: Description Council Tentative Meeting Schedule rfi City Council Tentative Meeting Schedule _ Subject to change CITY IOWA CITY May 7, 2020 Date Time Meeting Location Tuesday, May 19, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Zoom Meeting Platform 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, June 9, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, June 30, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, July 21, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, August 4, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Tuesday, August 18, 2020 5:00 PM Work Session Emma J. Harvat Hall 7:00 PM Formal Meeting Item Number: 2. �r p- CITY OE IOWA CITY www.iogov.org May 7, 2020 Memo from Neighborhood & Development Services Director: Comparison of the UniverCity and South District Programs ATTACHMENTS: Description Memo from Neighborhood & Development Services Director: Comparison of the UniverCity and South District Programs CITY OF IOWA CITY MEMORANDUM Date: April 28, 2020 To: Geoff Fruin, City Manager From: Tracy Hightshoe, Neighborhood & Development Services Director Re: Comparison of the UniverCity and South District Programs The City offers two housing programs for homeownership. Both programs purchase single family or duplex rental properties, rehabilitate the homes and sell them to income eligible homebuyers. While the programs have similarities, they also have key differences. The table below compares the two programs. The UniverCity program was started in 2011 with an I -Jobs grant through the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). To date, the City has used five different funding sources to finance either the rehabilitation and/or downpayment assistance of the homes in the program. To meet each funder's requirements, the program was adjusted to ensure the funding source could be utilized for that home. As such, the income of the household, repayment terms, and compliance periods could be different based on the funding source. The information below summarizes the most common or current practice for the UniverCity program. Comparison of the UniverCity and South District Programs UniverCity Program South District Program Funding Source Multiple; now primarily City General HOME Funds, City General Funds. Funds. Income Limit 140% Median Income or less 80% Median Income or less (unless further limited by funding (HOME rules). source). Neighborhood Focus University impacted neighborhoods. South District, focusing on Taylor Drive/Davis Street. City Acquisition Price Acquisition cost averaged $166,375 Average: $63,500 per home. per home. Prices were as follows: Two duplexes purchased to date. 17 for $135,000 or less 37 from $135,001 to $180,000 16 for more than $180,000. Downpayment No longer provided for UniverCity Based on underwriting for the Assistance homes. HOME program, up to $25,000. Rehabilitation Costs $50,000 to $60,000 to rehabilitate $35,000 to rehabilitate homes — homes — the age and size of homes costs are less due to the age and require more investment. size of homes. Repayment Terms: Rehabilitation Funds Funds are forgiven after 5 years. If Funds are forgiven after 10 years. buyer paid approximate market If sold before 10 years, $3,500 cost/appraised value, requirement forgiven each year. was waived. May 4, 2020 Page 2 Downpayment and NA Up to $25,000, depending on Closing Cost affordability of home (HOME Assistance underwriting standards). HOME recapture provision means funds are forgiven after 5-10 years, based on amount of HOME funds provided. If sold before, net proceeds of sale shared between City and buyer, up to the HOME amount provided. Owner Investment Downpayment as required by bank. $250 downpayment required. Owner Occupied Varied over years: 5 to 30 years. Minimum of 21 years. Deed Restriction Now at 30 years. The following questions were raised by various Council members. 1. The focus of the South District program is affordability. How can we maintain the focus on low income families? Staff Response: The City is using federal HOME funds through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for downpayment assistance in conjunction with local funds for the rehabilitation of the homes. HOME rules require that the homebuyer must have a household income of less than 80% of the area median income or they are not eligible for the program. In Iowa City, a household of two can make no more than $60,400; however, lower income households are likely to receive greater down payment assistance based on the HOME underwriting standards. For the first couple homes, buyers must have incomes below $34,680 to receive the full downpayment and closing cost assistance. This amount will vary depending on the sales price of the home and financial situation of the buyer The City has designed the program to reduce barriers for low income homebuyers. In addition to providing downpayment assistance (which can include closing costs), the City pays for financial counseling for buyers and prospective buyers. As a result, both approved buyers will be able to purchase a home while having a very low income (less than 50% of the area median income) 2. Can homes be purchased for prices above the average purchase price to date for the South District. Staff Response: The City must purchase homes from the private market and will have to pay what the market bears. The City's goal is to have final monthly housing payments that are equal to or less than HOME Fair Market Rent. If the City pays more for a home, it would require more downpayment assistance to maintain a lower loan amount for the homebuyer. 3. How many UniverCity homes received downpayment assistance? What was the source of funds? What are the requirements for downpayment assistance under the South District program? Staff Response: 48 of the 70 UniverCity homes received some form of downpayment assistance. 16 UniverCity homes received downpayment assistance through the Iowa City Housing Authority. Of these 16 homes, 11 homebuyers received additional downpayment assistance from the University of Iowa, an initial contributor to the program. The University of Iowa assisted another 32 homes with downpayment assistance. These funds are now depleted and downpayment is no longer provided for UniverCity homes. May 4, 2020 Page 3 The South District program relies on downpayment assistance through the federal HOME program. The City can provide up to $25,000 in downpayment assistance if the homebuyer qualifies for HOME funding. The homebuyer must be under 80% median income and be eligible based on HUD underwriting criteria which considers what percentage of the buyer's gross monthly income will be used for housing costs (i.e. housing expense ratio) and what percentage of gross monthly income will pay for housing costs plus other recurring debt payments such as credit cards, auto loans, and student loans (i.e. debt to income ratio). This regulation ensures the City is not placing households into homes they can't afford to purchase or maintain. If the homebuyer needs more than $25,000 in downpayment assistance to meet the underwriting criteria, the City is not able to assist that household. The underwriting standards also ensure that homebuyers are not over -subsidized. 4. For the South District program, can the affordability period for the downpayment assistance be reduced to five years. Staff Response: The HOME program requires an affordability period based on the amount of HOME assistance provided. For HOME assistance of less than $15,000, there is a mandatory 5 -year affordability period. For HOME assistance between $15,000 and $25,000, the mandatory affordability period is 10 years. 5. Under the South District, can the City reduce the rehabilitation terms from ten years to five? Staff Response: Staff recommended that the program function similarly to the financing structure of past public housing sales and Habitat programs. The City offers this program to be a long-term investment for the eligible homebuyer and for the homebuyer to be a long-term resident of the neighborhood. The City also wants to prevent "flipping" in which a home is bought as a short-term investment and sold for windfall gain. Without a second mortgage, a buyer could purchase the home and then proceed to sell as soon as the mortgage is released for market value and make what is considered a "windfall profit" from a public investment. The two initial homes on Sandusky appraised at $144,000 each after rehabilitation. The City decided to sell the homes at the cost the City invested into each home opposed to the appraised value so that the homes would be affordable to those at lower incomes. Sandusky home example: Based on if the City's 2nd mortgage is forgiven completely at the end of year 5: Initial sales price to homebuyer: $115,000 + closing costs (Includes purchase price, rehabilitation and all carrying costs such as taxes, interest, utilities, and maintenance. HOME Down a ment Assistance: $25,000 2nd Mortgage for rehabilitation funds $35,000 (5 -year requirement): Homebuyer contribution: $250 Amount initial homebuyer needed to finance: $54,750 Homebuyer moves to sell in year 5 (after 2"d mortgage is released): Home on open market, must remain owner- $144,000 (proceeds are higher if home occupied, but can be sold to any appreciates in value over five years) homebuyer. HOME repayment required: $25,000 Principal mortgage repayment: $49,850 (Homebuyer paid $4,900 in principal payments) May 4, 2020 Page 4 2nd City mortgage payoff: $0 $35,000 City mortgage forgiven) Closing costs $2,000 Homebuyerproceeds: $67,150 Return on investment after 5 ears: 1,203% $67,150 - $5,150)/$5,150 *100% 6. Can the UniverCity and South District programs be combined? Staff Response: The programs can be combined. As with the UniverCity program the requirements may change for each home based on the funding source utilized for that home. 7. The first three applicants for the Sandusky home were not able to secure financing to purchase a home. How can the City support neighbors to reduce financial or credit barriers? Staff Response: The City, in partnership with Horizons, offers free financial counseling to area residents with a desire to own their own homes. The City will continue to work with neighborhood partners to encourage the use of this service so that those interested in homeownership can take steps to improve their ability to qualify for a mortgage. The City will also market the program to local lenders so lenders better understand what assistance the City is providing and answer questions that they may have to support neighborhood residents to apply and qualify for mortgages. To date, we have purchased 70 homes through the UniverCity program and four homes (two duplexes) for the South District program. Should you have any questions about either program, please contact me at 319.356.5244 or tracy-hightshoe@iowa-city.org. Item Number: 3. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Email from Judith Pfohl: May 5th Iowa City refuses park user input ATTACHMENTS: Description Email from Judith Pfohl: May 5th Iowa City refuses park user input Kellie Fruehling From: Judith Pfohl <judypfohl@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, May 6, 2020 8:53 AM To: Editor Press -Citizen; Editor Gazette; Editor Des Moines Register; Editor Daily -Iowan; Editor Gazette Subject: May 5th Iowa City refuses park user inputs I R11K I am sorry last night the Iowa City Council did not delay the prairie additions until next May, so neighbors could even see what was originally planned. Unseen revised prairie locations is not acceptable. Also, park users may not be aware that to install prairies along creeks you need to cut down the trees along a creek. The Parks Department never installed promised benches in Kiwanis and Willow Creek Park walking paths. Current prairies have not been maintained. Prairies will not stop erosion from the runoff flash floods we get. The natural area final plans from 2017 were never made available for input before acceptance and could have saved a lot of confusion. We wish the media had responded to our pleas a few days ago and informed others about the city starting to plow up parkland in May. If so, Kiwanis and Willow Creek Parks would not be the only ones upset and insisting on input. Like other government agencies, the city is losing trust of the citizens. Judy Pfohl 2229 Abbey Ln Iowa City, IA 52246 319-351-1684 Ty'n Cae Neighborhood President for over 25 years. Item Number: 4. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Email from Pam Nims: Re: Prairie Conversions [Staff Response Included] ATTACHMENTS: Description Email from Pam Nims: Re: Prairie Conversions [Staff Response Included] Kellie Fruehling Emmons From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: I RISK Great, thank you. I look forward to it. Best, Pam Sent from my iPhone Pam Nims <pamnims@yahoo.com> Wednesday, May 6, 2020 12:06 PM Geoff Fruin Council; Juli Seydell Johnson Re: Prairie Conversions On May 6, 2020, at 10:56 AM, Geoff Fruin <Geoff-Fruin@iowa-city.org> wrote: Hi Ms. Nims, We will be preparing some updated maps and outreach to the neighborhood very soon. We are also happy to talk about the professional qualifications and training that our natural areas team has and how they are committed to managing our prairies going forward. That aspect of this effort will be included in our follow-up communication. Take care, Geoff Fruin City Manager From: Pam Nims [mailto:pamnims@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, May 6, 202010:36 AM To: Geoff Fruin <Geoff-Fruin@iowa-city.org> Cc: Council <Council@iowa-city.org> Subject: Prairie Conversions <image001.jpg> Hi Mr. Fruin, I wanted to write to thank you for the time last night and staffs consideration of all the commentary provided. As you can tell, there has been a breakdown of trust related to this proposal which surely bleeds into other areas and interactions.) am hopeful that we are on our way past that. I ask that maps be produced soon to show constituents the plans for Willow Creek and Kiwanis Parks. I mean it when I say that I (and many others) don't oppose the concept of prairie installation - as long as it isn't taking away park space that is regularly used. It appeared to me in the meeting that what is being proposed is reasonable, but as was noted, it was hard to follow the cursor for sure and it seemed that it was lagging a bit on the zoom feed. It would also ask that staff share information on how the prairies will be maintained. know you mentioned that there is an increased effort in that area. I spent some time reading the Natural Areas Inventory and Management Plan document yesterday (not the whole thing, I confess) and noticed a dedicated section to volunteers being used for management of the prairie. That is an approach that has been tried in the past and has failed miserably, despite good intentions and a lot of effort by volunteers. As councilman Thomas noted last night. prairies have gotten a bad name in town and that is due to lack of proper maintenance. No one wants to frequent a park that has a "prairie" that is full of invasive species, or live next to a park that has a controlled burn of a patch of poison ivy. Thanks again for responding to community feedback. I look forward to hearing more about what is planned. Thank you, Pam Nims 2241 Abbey Lane Iowa City Disclaimer The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for use by the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 2020 Building Statistics ATTACHMENTS: Description 2020 Building Statistics Item Number: 5. City of Iowa City 2020 Building Statistics Value/Type of Construction January February March April May June July August September October November December TOTAL NON-TAXABLE Single Fami-$ 1,293,769 1,218,288 3,894,798 500,000 6,906,855 Number of Permits 4 4 13 2 23 Duplex - $ 315,000 315,000 Number of Permits 1 1 Sororities & Fraternities - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Multiple Units 4,000,000 2,730,000 6,730,000 Number of Permits 1 3 4 Number of Buildings 1 3 4 Number of Dwelling Units 24 14 38 Mix - CommerciallResidential 0 Number of Permits 0 Number of Buildings 0 Number of Dwelling units 0 Motels, Hotels - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Churches - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Industrial - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Service Stations - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Hospitals & Institutions - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Offices, Banks, Prof. - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Public Works & Utilities - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Schools - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Stores & Customer Svc. - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Misc. Structures/Fences - $ 32,511 32,511 Number of Permits 2 2 Remodel, Residential -$ 586,338 322,661 1,120,088 707,736 2,736,823 Number of Permits 21 14 28 23 86 Remodel, Commercial -$ 2,185,686 163,840 545,777 1,060,500 3,955,803 18,500 Number of Permits 7 9 4 7 27 1 Remodel, Public Works - $ 0 Number of Permits 0 Accessory Structures 16,500 16,500 Number of Permits 2 — 2 Condo Conversion - No Value 0 TOTAL VALUE 8,380,793 4,434,789 5,560,663 2,317,247 20,693,492 TOTAL PERMITS 34 30 45 36 145 Demolition: Residential units lost 18 0 0 0 18 CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Bar Check Report: April 2020 ATTACHMENTS: Description Bar Check Report: April 2020 Item Number: 6. FROM: Sergeant Derek Frank RE: April 2020** Bar Check Report DATE: May 6, 2020 This report tracks the performance of Iowa City liquor license establishments in monitoring their patrons for violations of Iowa City's ordinances on Possession of Alcohol Under the Legal Age (PAULA) and Persons Under the Legal Age in Licensed or Permitted Establishments (Under 21). "Bar checks" are defined by resolution as an officer -initiated check of a liquor establishment for PAULA or other alcohol-related violations. This includes directed checks of designated liquor establishments, and checks initiated by officers as part of their routine duties. It does not include officer responses to calls for service. The bar check ratios are calculated by dividing the number of citations issued to patrons at an establishment during a period of time by the number of bar checks performed during the same time period. If at any time a venue with a granted exception certificate has a PAULA ratio more than .25 during a 12 -month period, their certificate is reviewed for revocation. Note, while the resolution requires that bar checks and citations of the University of Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) be included in these statistics, the DPS ceased performing bar checks and issuing these citations to patrons in May of 2014. **It should be noted that COVID-19 pandemic -related changes and mandates from the State of Iowa greatly impacted businesses and the Iowa City Police Department procedures during the time of this evaluation by reducing person-to-person contact and requiring various business closures. PAULA/ Under 21 ratios -previous 12 months 2.5 2 1.5 1 6.5 0 1■ ■ ■ ■ ■ �I �I _ _1 1 ■ 1 I 100 ■ PAULA Ratio ■ Under 21 Ratio Raw Data • Sorted by PAULA Ratio — high to low • Establishments with exception certificates are listed in RED • Bars/Restaurants closed for all of April by state mandate due to COVID-19 pandemic Bar Check Data - April 2020 0 Bar Check Data - previous 12 months Name Checks PAULA UNDER 21 PAULA Ratio Under 21 Ratio VAN BS 6 2 1 0.333333333 0.166666667 UNION BAR 58 10 80 0.172413793 1.379310345 AIRLINER 72 11 116 0.152777778 1.611111111 SUMMIT 81 10 165 0.12345679 2.037037037 SPORTS 57 7 79 0.122807018 1.385964912 COLUMN MARTINIS 32 3 21 0.09375 0.65625 DC'S 32 3 16 0.09375 0.5 EDEN LOUNGE 26 2 10 0.076923077 0.384615385 BO JAMES 39 2 32 0.051282051 0.820512821 BROTHERS 58 2 17 0.034482759 0.293103448 FIELDHOUSE 73 1 109 0.01369863 1.493150685 PINTS 32 0 8 0 0.25 VINE TAVERN 6 0 8 0 1.333333333 JOES PLACE 18 0 3 0 0.166666667 BARDOT 4 0 3 0 0.75 DUBLIN 8 0 3 0 0.375 UNDERGROUND CACTUS 1 0 2 0 2 BLUE MOOSE 2 0 1 0 0.5 MICKEYS 2 0 0 0 0 DONNELLYS 3 0 0 0 0 HILLTOP 6 0 0 0 0 TAVERN SALOON 2 0 0 0 0 HY-VEE (NEW) 1 0 0 0 TCB 10 0 0 0 CACTUS 3 2 0 0 0 THE MILL 1 0 0 0 BIG GROVE 1 0 0 0 BREWERY STUDIO 14 0 0 0 13,YACHT CLUB CARL & ERNIES 2 0 0 0 TWO DOGS PUB 2 0 0 0 AVOCADO 3 0 0 0 LA RUMBA 1 0 0 0 QUINTON 1 0 0 0 ALUMNUS 6 0 0 0 EAGLES CLUB 3 0 0 0 AMERICAN 2 0 0 0 LEGION GEORGES 4 0 0 0 GABES 2 0 0 0 DAVES FOX 2 0 0 0 HEAD SAMS PIZZA 1 0 0 0 BLACKSTONE 1 0 0 0 DEADWOOD 4 0 0 0 COACHES 2 0 0 0 CORNER Total 684 53 674 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Item Number: 7. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker II - Refuse ATTACHMENTS: Description Civil Service Examination: Maintenance Worker I I - Refuse I r 1 ��K�* ni i Z_ 74C -�.._ CITY OF IOWA CITY 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa S2240- 1 826 (3 19) 356-5000 (3 19) 356-5009 FAX Ww'W.ICgov.org April 23, 2020 T0: The Honorable Mayor and the City Council RE: Civil Service Entrance Examination — Maintenance Worker II — Refuse Under the authority of the Civil Service Commission of Iowa City, Iowa, I do hereby certify the following named person(s) as eligible for the position of Maintenance Worker II — Refuse. Kyle Acheson Iowa City Civil Service Commission Rick \ ss, Chair Item Number: 8. CITY OIF IOWA CITY www.icgov.org May 7, 2020 Statehouse News: How is COVID-19 Impacting You? ATTACHMENTS: Description Statehouse News: How is COVI D-19 Impacting You? Kellie Fruehling From: State Rep. Dave Jacoby <Dave.Jacoby@legis.iowa.gov> Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2020 10:31 AM To: Council Subject: Statehouse News I How is COVID-19 Impacting You? Statehouse News How is COVID-19 Impacting You? As COVID-19 continues to impact our daily lives, I wanted to share a brief update with you. Positive cases are likely to hit above 10,000 cases this week and that number will continue to increase as experts predict the peak of infection isn't expected until later this month. It's been nearly two months since the first coronavirus case was reported in Iowa. It's changed a lot about the way we live. I want to hear from you on how your family, business, and lives have been impacted so I can learn more about what I can do to help. I hope you can fill out this brief survey that will take less than two minutes of your time. Take the survey here. COVID-19 Survey Take the Survey Again, I encourage you to reach out with any questions or suggestions on what we need to do to keep Iowans safe, as well as plans to provide help and recovery to move forward during the COVID-19 pandemic. Take Precautions as Iowa Begins to Re -open As we start to see parts of the state open up, it's important to remember to continue to practice social distancing and stay home as much as possible. If you go out, try to avoid close contact with others especially those that are sick. Put distance between yourself and M CO On A WFEREAM 09 SM TF[ SP" OF COM19. Sla� 9 lest apart Stay Wma when lealing ill. N others as much as possible, remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. In light of new data about how COVID-19 spreads, the CDC recommends that people wear a cloth face covering to cover their nose and mouth in the community settings. This is to protect people around you if you are infected but do not have symptoms. Limiting contact with others is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. Restaurants in 77 counties can reopen to in-person dining. Restaurants must follow these guidelines for in-person dining: • The restaurant must limit the number of customers present at indoor or outdoor spaces to 50% of its normal operating capacity to ensure adequate spacing of groups • Groups are limited to no more than 6 people • Distance of 6 feet must be maintained between separate groups • No self-service of food or drink allowed The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals has additional recommendations for restaurants. They can be found here, https://dia.lowa.gov/document/iowa-restaurant- reopening-critedaoperation-restrictions-during-covid-19 The following counties still remain closed until May 15: Allamakee, Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Dallas, Des Moines, Dubuque, Fayette, Henry, Iowa, Jasper, Johnson, Linn, Louisa, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Tama, Washington, and Woodbury. Agriculture Hit Hard by COVID-19, Resources Available After enduring the President's trade wars over the last two years, farmers now face the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis. In response, state and federal officials have taken actions to help the agricultural industry. Beginning Monday, April 27, farmers will be eligible to apply for up to $10,000 through the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Apply here: sba.gov/funding- programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options The governor extended the increased trucking weight limits to 90,000 for medical and agricultural items until at least May 27. Farmers markets will also now be open, allowing farm products and food only. The President has invoked the Defense Production Act, seeking to ensure plants remain open and workers report for their shifts amid the outbreak. OHSA issued packing plant specific guidance at the end of April, following extensive outbreaks. Packing plants have been the source of the biggest outbreaks in the state. Outbreaks at plants in Columbus Junction, Waterloo, Marshalltown, Tama, Perry, and Sioux City have led to thousands of infections and the temporary closure of several facilities. The temporary closure of these plants has led to a crisis among producers. Iowa is the nation's leading pork producer, with roughly 25 million hogs in confinements across the state. Extended closures may force farmers to euthanize animals. Help and Guidance for Iowa Producers IOWA GUIDANCE: Guidance for Iowa producers can be found at hftps://iowaagriculture..qov/covid-19; including information on supply chain issues, guidance from the CDC, federal information and information on actions taken by the state. FEDERAL GUIDANCE: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has assistance available for rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Their resource guide of federal programs will help rural leaders -- whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other field -- find support for recovery efforts through technical, training and management assistance, financial assistance, partnership opportunities and more. Find additional help at usda.Qov/coronavirus. MENTAL HEALTH: During this difficult time, don't sacrifice your well-being to stress and uncertainty. Iowa State University Extension provides confidential access to stress counselors and other resources, 24/7 at no charge. Call 800-447-1985, or go to extension.iastate.edu/iowaconcern to live chat one-on-one in a secure environment. Tuition Freeze at State Universities The Iowa Board of Regents that represents Iowa's public universities met virtually on May 4th to consider a proposal to not increase tuition for the upcoming Fall semester. The tuition freeze is on the table even though there is an estimated loss in revenue combined at the Regent institutions of nearly $200 million. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, fewer students are expected to enroll at the universities in the fall, particularly international students. There is also financial uncertainty because the Legislature is suspended and has not set the state budget for next year. The Regents indicated that they could increase tuition in the Spring. Federal funds have been made available to Iowa Regent institutions. Under the CARES Act the University of Iowa would receive $16.2 million, $21.7 million to Iowa State University, and $10.9 million to the University of Northern Iowa. Approximately half of those funds need to go to emergency financial aid grants to students. Student Financial Aid Help Students will now be able to defer payments and waive interest on federally held student loans until September 30. Also, the collection of defaulted student loans has been suspended. Students will not be required to pay back federal student loans and Pell Grants if they withdraw from courses due to the COVID-19 emergency. In addition, students who withdraw will not have this semester counted against their lifetime eligibility for federal financial aid. Students may continue collecting work-study pay, even if they are unable to work due to school and workplace closures. To learn more, go to: studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus 4 HELP FDR iFarmers impacted by r VID-19 IDWA uld visit: FARMERS iowalarmeMelp.com 1Lw a �yi.Y 1 FEDERAL GUIDANCE: The U.S. Department of Agriculture has assistance available for rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Their resource guide of federal programs will help rural leaders -- whether they are in agriculture, education, health care or any other field -- find support for recovery efforts through technical, training and management assistance, financial assistance, partnership opportunities and more. Find additional help at usda.Qov/coronavirus. MENTAL HEALTH: During this difficult time, don't sacrifice your well-being to stress and uncertainty. Iowa State University Extension provides confidential access to stress counselors and other resources, 24/7 at no charge. Call 800-447-1985, or go to extension.iastate.edu/iowaconcern to live chat one-on-one in a secure environment. Tuition Freeze at State Universities The Iowa Board of Regents that represents Iowa's public universities met virtually on May 4th to consider a proposal to not increase tuition for the upcoming Fall semester. The tuition freeze is on the table even though there is an estimated loss in revenue combined at the Regent institutions of nearly $200 million. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, fewer students are expected to enroll at the universities in the fall, particularly international students. There is also financial uncertainty because the Legislature is suspended and has not set the state budget for next year. The Regents indicated that they could increase tuition in the Spring. Federal funds have been made available to Iowa Regent institutions. Under the CARES Act the University of Iowa would receive $16.2 million, $21.7 million to Iowa State University, and $10.9 million to the University of Northern Iowa. Approximately half of those funds need to go to emergency financial aid grants to students. Student Financial Aid Help Students will now be able to defer payments and waive interest on federally held student loans until September 30. Also, the collection of defaulted student loans has been suspended. Students will not be required to pay back federal student loans and Pell Grants if they withdraw from courses due to the COVID-19 emergency. In addition, students who withdraw will not have this semester counted against their lifetime eligibility for federal financial aid. Students may continue collecting work-study pay, even if they are unable to work due to school and workplace closures. To learn more, go to: studentaid.gov/announcements-events/coronavirus 4 FLOW WILL STUDENTLLV�S be handled during COVID•19? Interest Rate of All borrowers interest rates will be set to 0% for 60 -day period. A Safety Net All federal loan services =$95z— Other will grant forbearance fora period of 30 days. COVID-19 Updates Pay Suspension Borrowers will have the option to Im suspend their payments for at least two months. Paying Loans If borrowers continue to make payments, the full amount of their payment will be applied to to their load once all interest accrued prior to the March 13 annoucement is paid. HOW TO GET TESTED: Iowa is now offering drive through testing for those who qualify after taking an online assessment at www.testiowa.com. The goal of the program is to allow the state to administer 3,000 tests per day at the various drive through locations throughout the state. You can also get tested by calling your primary doctor. UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS: Another 28,827 Iowans filed initial claims for state unemployment benefits last week, up from the week before. That makes 260,000 new claims filed in the last six weeks, the most since the Great Depression. Nationally, another 3.8 million unemployment claims were filed. Go here to file a claim: htti)s://www.iowaworkforcedeveloi)ment.gov/file-claim-uneml)lovment-insurance- benefits. SMALL BUSINESS HELP: The Iowa Economic Development Authority is continuously updating their website for small business owners, www.iowabusinessrecovery.com. The Iowa Economic Development Authority has given out more grants to small businesses and will continue to give out grants as funds become available. Businesses that received grants can be found here, https://www.iowaeconomicdevelopment.com/aspx/generalldynamicpage.aspx?id=205. Due to Congressional action small businesses can again apply for relief through the Small Business Administration. More information on the programs can be found here, https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options VOTE FROM HOME: With the outbreak of COVID-19, the Iowa Secretary of State is encouraging Iowans to vote from home for the primary election coming up in June. All registered voters were mailed an absentee ballot request form in the mail this week. The form must be mailed in by May 22nd to vote from home. If you didn't get the request form, you can print one out here (https:Hbit.ly/2VJIzYu). Click here to find out if you are registered to vote, https:Hbit.ly/2KJnNlu STUDENT LUNCH LOCATIONS: The USDA's Summer Food Service Program has 303 approved Grab and Go meal sites in Iowa to provide meals and snacks to children who might go without while schools are closed due to COVID-19. To find a location in your community go to: https://www.fns.usda.gov/meals4kids Iowa COVID-19 Resources CURRENT COVID-19 INFORMATION: For the latest updates from the Iowa Governor's office on COVID-19: https:Hcoronavirus.iowa.gov GET TESTED FOR COVID-19: Iowa is now offering drive through testing for those who qualify after taking an online assessment at www.testiowa.com, COVID-19 PUBLIC HOTLINE: For Iowans with questions about COVID-19, a public hotline is open 24/7 by calling 2-1-1 or 1-800-244-7431 (Espanol disponible) CRISIS TEXT LINE: To access the Crisis Text Line, text "TALK" to 741741 SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: Call 1-800-273-8255 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text "LOVEIS" to 22522 FOOD PANTRIES: Find a food pantry near you go to: https:/Iwww.foodbankiowa.org/ CHILDCARE: Looking for childcare during COVID-19? Go to https:Hdhs.iowa.gov/childcare-covid-19 to find open spots or facilities. FREE LEGAL HELP: https://www.iowalegalaid.org/resource/2020-coronavirus- outbreak-what-you-need-to-know HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE: To apply for assistance visit: https:Hhumanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/Iiheap. CARES ACT FEDERAL LEGISLATION: A new summary of recently passed federal legislation and its impact on Iowa will be continuously updated and is available here: https://tinyuri.com/sg2hiuc DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH UPDATES: For the latest updates on coronavirus and to learn more about prevention efforts, go to the Iowa Dept. of Public Health at https:Hidph.iowa.gov/Emerging-Health-Issues/Novel-Coronavirus VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: http://volunteeriowa.galaxydigital.com (D*( 0 Copyright Q 2020 State Rep. Dave Jacoby, All rights reserved_ This email was sent to you because are signed up for State Rep. Dave Jacoby's Statehouse News. Communicating with constituents is critical to learning what is important to you. My mailing address is: State Rep. Dave Jacoby 1009E Grant! Ave Des Moines, IA 50399-1009 Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update Your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.