HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch HCDC PacketHOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION (HCDC)
March 11, 2021
Electronic Regular Meeting – 6:30 PM
Zoom Meeting Platform
AGENDA:
1.Call to Order
2.Consideration of Meeting Minutes: February 18, 2021
3.Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda
Commentators shall address the Commission for no more than 5 minutes. Commissioners
shall not engage in discussion with the public concerning said items.
4.Unsuccessful and Delayed Projects Checkpoint
The City’s Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy requires that all CDBG projects expend a
minimum of 50% of the assistance provided for the proposed project by March 15 each year.
HCDC will hear from Little Creations Academy and determine whether extenuating
circumstance exist, and if so, whether the project is anticipated to proceed. HCDC may
recommend the recapture and re-use of funds to City Council.
5.Discuss FY22 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Program
funding requests and consider budget recommendation to City Council
FY22 CDBG/HOME applications are available online at www.icgov.org/actionplan. At this
meeting, HCDC will discuss applications, rankings, and funding amounts. HCDC will consider
Electronic Meeting
(Pursuant to Iowa Code section 21.8)
An electronic meeting is being held because a meeting in person is
impossible or impractical due to concerns for the health and safety of
Commission members, staff and the public presented by COVID-19.
You can participate in the meeting and comment on an agenda item by
going to: https://zoom.us/j/98225350854 to visit the Zoom meeting’s
registration page and submitting the required information. Once
approved, you will receive an email message with a link to join the
meeting. If you are asked for a meeting or webinar ID, enter the ID
number found in the email. If you have no computer or smartphone, or
a computer without a microphone, you can call in by phone by dialing
(312)626-6799 and entering the meeting ID 982 2535 0854 when
prompted. Providing comment in person is not an option.
2
If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate in this program or event, please
contact Brianna Thul at brianna-thul@iowa-city.org or 319-356-5230. Early requests are strongly
encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
a recommendation to City Council for FY22 CDBG/HOME funding of up to $339,000 CDBG
and $426,000 HOME. These numbers reflect the most recent allocation calculations from
HUD received March 2, 2021. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend. City Council will
provide final funding allocations in May.
6.Discuss FY22 Emerging Aid to Agencies (EA2A) funding requests and consider
budget recommendation to City Council
FY22 EA2A applications are available online at www.icgov.org/actionplan. At this meeting,
HCDC will discuss applications and funding amounts. HCDC will consider a recommendation
to City Council for FY22 EA2A funding of up to $30,000. Applicants are strongly encouraged
to attend. City Council will provide final funding allocations in May. Staff will also discuss other
City funding sources including Social Justice and Racial Equity and Climate Action grants.
7.Discuss Community Development Week Activities
National Community Development Week 2021 is April 5-9. The National Community
Development Association (NCDA) provided a toolkit with suggestions on how to acknowledge
and celebrate the week given the current COVID-19 environment.
8.Iowa City Council Meeting Updates
Two commissioners are assigned each month to monitor Council meetings. This agenda item
provides an opportunity to review assignment schedule and for brief updates on City Council
activity relevant to HCDC business.
9.Housing & Community Development Information
10.Adjournment
Housing and Community Development Commission
March 11, 2021 Meeting Packet Contents
Agenda Item #2
• February 18, 2021 HCDC Draft Meeting Minutes
Agenda Item #4
• Little Creations Academy Staff Memo
• Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy
Agenda Item #5 & #6
• FY22 CDBG/HOME and Emerging Aid to Agencies Application and Funding
Summaries
Agenda Item #5
• Unlimited Abilities Staff Memo
• FY22 Amhurst Lodge Application Retraction Email from Crissy Canganelli,
Executive Director of Shelter House
• Confirmation of ESG Award for HVAC System Renovation Email from Crissy
Canganelli, Executive Director of Shelter House
Agenda Item #6
• FY21 Social Justice and Racial Equity Grant Application Summary
• Climate Action Grant Application Notice
Agenda Item #7
• NCDA National Community Development Week Toolkit
Agenda Item #9
• Letter from HCDC to Council Regarding Utility Shutoffs
MINUTES PRELIMINARY
HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
FEBRUARY18, 2021 – 6:30 PM
ELECTRONIC MEETING
MEMBERS PRESENT: Peggy Aguilar, Megan Alter, Matt Drabek, Lyn Dee Hook Kealey,
Theresa Lewis, Nasr Mohammed, Peter Nkumu, Maria Padron, Kyle
Vogel
MEMBERS ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT: Erika Kubly, Brianna Thul
OTHERS PRESENT: Lucy Barker, Sara Barron, Crissy Canganelli, Charlie Eastham, Roger
Goedken, Brenda Hagmeier, Wisal Hussein, Kevin (unknown last name),
Frederick Newell, Amanda Nichols, Christine Ralston, Shirley Tramble
CALL MEETING TO ORDER:
Pardon called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
CONSIDERATION OF MEETING MINUTES: JANUARY 21, 2021:
Aguilar moved to approve the minutes of January 21, 2021. Drabek seconded and a vote was taken and
the motion passed 9-0.
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR TOPICS NOT ON THE AGENDA:
Sara Barron (Executive Director of Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition) wanted to let the
Commission know about some important updates that will have a dramatic impact on housing in Iowa City
and Johnson County. At the end of 2020, Congress passed a $900 billion COVID relief package and $25
billion of that was allocated toward housing and utility costs. The state of Iowa will allocate to households
$195 million for back rent and future rent as well as for back utilities. Based on Johnson County's
participation in previous COVID funding that's been available, Barron is estimating the Johnson County
residents will receive between $20 million and $25 million in rent and utility assistance. Barron
acknowledged this is a big deal because there are far too many households that are behind on their basic
needs and bills and they're struggling to survive the pandemic financially, as well as health wise. Barron
said they are seeing this as a crisis and are mobilizing a community wide response to help every eligible
household to apply for this money. The Affordable Housing Coalition is working with partners from Center
for Worker Justice, United Way, Project Better Together, Shelter House, Community, and Johnson
County Social Services to set up a program that will offer in person and phone and email assistance to
every household that wants to apply. Their goal is to reach every single eligible household in Johnson
County, which is ambitious and needed. Barron stated they will be looking for more assistance from the
City of Iowa City to mobilize and help publicize this to residents, they will also be able to assist landlords
who can apply for the assistance in cooperation with their tenants. Barron stated they’re really excited to
be able to offer that service to everyone and more information about that will be coming soon. They
expect that the state of Iowa will begin releasing that money in March and open applications then so they
want to be ready with their assistance program as well. Barron added that one thing that this means is
that for a long time Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition and some of their partners have been
talking with the cities who are the utility providers of water, sewer and other basic needs and have asked
Agenda Item #2
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for all different types of help with utility costs in the past. Now for the first time, they have a whole lot of
money available to help pay past utility bills, so once again are asking the cities to have a water shutoff
moratorium, because they have learned that some residents in Coralville and North Liberty have had their
water shut off by the city because of their inability to pay. Barron added they understand that the City of
Iowa City is preparing to move forward on its plan to send all of the past due accounts to collections and
resume shutoffs as well so it is urgent that the cities extend some more grace to residents and keep their
water on so that they can get these back bills paid and the way to maximize the amount of federal
assistance that they're able to receive is to allow residents to accumulate these back bills so that they can
get them paid by the federal program. If people get put on payment plans or they try to pay it themselves,
they won't be able to get this assistance. Barron is asking for the Commission to weigh in on the City's
decision making about this and ensure that the water shutoff moratorium stays in place until they are able
to help every eligible household apply for and receive this assistance. Barron can answer any questions
about this program and encourages them to go to IowaHousingRecovery.com where there is some
information about who will be eligible to apply and what that application process will look like including the
documentation that will be required.
Alter asked if there was a timeline of when the money would be expected to start coming to the residents
who need it. Barron replied right now the State is waiting for some guidance from the Department of
Treasury, which is administering the whole housing funding, and they're waiting to get that guidance until
they release the money, but they are saying March and Barron is optimistically hoping that that will mean
early March. Barron noted from the last time they did a similar program, once people were able to submit
a completed and successful application, they were able to turn that money around and direct payments to
landlords and utility providers in pretty short order. Utility providers, including the cities, are able to
register right now with their information so that as soon as the program is up and running, they're already
plugged into the system and can receive the payments.
Barron reiterated what they really need is just for the City to leave the water on and then they’ll do the
work of helping people to apply and make sure that everyone is able make those payments quickly to the
landlords and utility providers.
Padron noted that March is quickly approaching, and this is probably going to happen before the next
Commission meeting so maybe they should write a letter to Council regarding these and get it sent before
the next meeting.
QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION FOR FY22 CDBG/HOME/EMERGING A2A PROGRAMS:
Padron stated the next agenda item is question and answer session for the fiscal year 2022 applications,
the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) and
Emerging Aid to Agencies (A2A) Programs. The application for these programs can be found at
icgov.org/actionplan. At this meeting, HCDC will host a question and answer session with applicants and
applicants are encouraged to send a representative to answer any questions for CDBG and HOME
applications. The ranking sheets are found in the applicant guide, the emerging agency applications do
not have ranking sheets. Padron noted no action will be taken in this meeting, HCDC funding
recommendations will be made next meeting currently scheduled for March 11.
Padron stated this question and answer session was created as a way to get more information after
HCDC reads through the applications and something is not clear, this is the session to ask those
questions. So instead of reading the application and not understanding the program and therefore just
giving it 0 points, this session is an opportunity to talk with the agencies and ask questions and
understand what they're intending to do with funding.
Padron stated another thing that she would like to say is when she is ranking applications, one of the
things that she focuses on is if she sees agencies that are trying to offer services that are already in the
community services and are duplicates. Iowa City is a wonderful city, and the number of nonprofit
organizations keeps growing which can be wonderful there isn’t enough money for everyone maybe they
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can try to help organizations and guide them to talk with other organizations may have a similar program
and partner with them. Also are there other grants this agency can apply for.
Alter noted certainly it is really exciting to see new agencies emerge but they want to make sure that
there's space provided for new agencies to come into being, but additionally, something to think about is
the potential for sustainability and is this an agency that can be at some point turned into a legacy.
The Commission began with the Emerging Aid to Agency applications and first is the Sudanese and
American Community Services. Padron noted first the applicant sent a letter to clarify that even though
their letterhead says they are located in Coralville, their address is now in Iowa City.
Lewis asked about the budget for this organization, the budget submitted was the project budget, which
was already part of the application process, but it would also be helpful for them to submit an
organizational budget to be reviewed as part of the proposal.
Wisal Hussein (President, Sudanese and American Community Services) said she can supply an
organization budget to the Commission.
Mohammed had a question about the current address for the organization. Hussein said the current
address is 1041 Arthur Street, but because the place is really tight, they are doing some events in another
places in Iowa City and also in Coralville. The registered agent address for the organization is in
Coralville because that is where he lives, this organization serves Iowa City and events are held in Iowa
City.
Vogel asked what has the association done as far as looking for other sources for both the iPads and the
laptops aside from just Amazon, has the association looked at other bulk rates. Have they looked at the
University of Iowa's surplus or other websites. Hussein said they can try to find better prices and provide
those. Vogel asked how they determined the need of 21, and the need of 15. Hussein explained it is
according to the student population they have, the members they serve. She noted this is actually less
than what they actually need but they are trying to find the people who are in real need and start with
them. Some families are a big family and they have a low income, and they can have one iPad for
everyone and do not need for each to have their own.
Vogel asked what the goal of the iPads versus a laptop or Chromebook. Hussein explained they need
these for the community center because all the services are online. They’ve had to drop a lot of activities
because they cannot get together in one place. They are trying to do their Arabic classes and English
learning and do have some Zumba classes online. Vogel again asked why iPads specifically. Hussein
stated because they have some Arabic classes for kids, and they don't want them working on laptops so
they are going to provide them with the iPad.
Padron had the same question as Vogel because it wasn't clear why iPads and not laptops. She is
unsure if schools are providing iPads or laptops for the kids, but the schools are providing those things for
kids so there may be an overlap here. Also it wasn't also clear to her if these iPads or laptops are going to
be in the facility and people cannot take them home. Therefore, they will just need one laptop to provide
som e classes in the facility and then the people taking the classes at home would have to have their own
computers. Hussein said they would actually be borrowing the laptops and taking them home.
Vogel asked with regards to the tablet, are they tied to Apple because there's other tablets like the
Amazon Fire tablets which are $92 versus $319 for an iPad so he is curious what the focus is of an iPad
and a full laptop versus a Chromebook and a Fire tablet. Maybe when they send in that operating budget
for the association, they can also send some new numbers on possible other options for what they’re
looking for tech. Hussein agreed they could do that.
Mohammed also noticed that on the application they reported having 600 members but when they break
down the income they report only 500. Hussein explained that the 600 persons is family number and the
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members are adults 18 and over only. When she put 500 total members those are with the median
income like from zero to 30% and 200 are from 31% to 50%. Some people are not working at all, they
have some elder people who don't work and don't have any income so they will be counted in the zero to
30%.
Kubly did add that for this organization, if they are awarded funding, they would have two reports to do
every six months through the fiscal year and so they could choose whether they do it recorded individuals
or households and clear up that discrepancy and staff can work with them to figure out that amount.
Kealey noted she appreciates the application and just want to state her support in them coming forward
and submitting this proposal and to thank staff for helping them if there's some other wording that needs
to be a little bit different.
Padron agreed and noted the Commission loves to see like new organizations coming forward and
understands sometimes these questions can get really hard and may be difficult to answer but this is tax
money, and they are trying to represent the City and also help all the agencies, which is a difficult job.
Next application is the Center for Worker Justice.
Lewis asked if this is a new position that they're requesting or funding to support an existing position?
Charlie Eastham (Treasurer and Board Member, Center for Worker Justice) stated they are not creating a
new staff position and they have been engaged in wage theft recovery work since the Center's inception
seven years ago so this application is to support that continuing work and to expand some educational
efforts and to be able to devote more staff time to doing wage theft, investigation and recovery.
Drabek asked if the Center for Worker Justice applied with HCDC before in any capacity, but not just the
wage theft campaign, but in any other capacity. Eastham stated they have, as noted in the application,
they have applied for funding on a couple of other projects but this is the first time they applied for support
for our wage theft recovery work. Drabek noted he was thinking the Center for Worker Justice
organization was older than seven years and perhaps should be a legacy agency. Eastham said they are
certainly interested in in becoming a legacy agency at an appropriate time when the Commission would
support that.
Vogel noted the estimate for the labor breakdown for this next year would be about 209 hours with these
funds and what increase is that from what they are doing now, will be doubling the amount of time being
spent or is it a 10% increase, 20% increase. Eastham said he would view this as an increase in their
percent of staff time that they will be able to devote to wage theft recovery work, as well as educating
workers so they can engage in their own wage recovery. He said it is hard to quantify exactly what the
labor increase will be as wage theft recovery depends a lot upon what workers bring to them from a
variety of avenues and that has increased somewhat episodic so they are not looking to increase the staff
position, as he said before, rather they are trying to increase the time that the staff has to do this work as
opposed to other work which may be something that other funders are more interested in contributing to.
Aguilar asked if they are doing anything with the Catholic Worker House in terms of wage theft recovery.
Eastham stated he is not familiar with all the recovery cases that the staff has worked on over the last
year or two so they may have done some cooperation with the Catholic Worker House and he just don't
know about it.
Alter asked if there is any issue with the fact that the Executive Director for the Center for Worker Justice
is also a sitting City Council Member because to be on this Commission they have to work through
conflict of interest in terms of what kinds of boards they serve on and if that board is applying for money.
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Eastham stated the Center has received funds in the past as well as COVID funds with no issues. The
executive director that is a City Council member that doesn't participate in the process for applying for
funds and the day that the Council votes on this Commissions recommendation, she would not vote.
Kubly confirmed the council member would recuse themself from the approval of the award. Also, this is
local funds and CDBG funds has very specific requirements related to conflict of interest and that's why
staff asks those questions of the Commission, but local funds can be a little more flexible. Staff will always
check with the City legal department.
Vogel noted this is the Center for Justice for Eastern Iowa so how do they know that the funds that were
the local funds that Iowa City is giving is only focusing out of that overall budget on wage theft issues in
Iowa City or only serving employees that are Iowa City residents. Eastham confirmed they do know
where the workers who come to them with wage issues reside and work and a number of those workers
do reside in Iowa City, or work in Iowa City, and that's why they’re approaching Iowa City for financial
support for this work. Eastham is quite confident he wouldn’t be here applying for this money if he
thought that they were engaged primarily in wage theft recovery for workers that the vast majority of them
lived and work outside of Iowa City.
Vogel asked if Eastham could have just basic numbers he could provide the Commission in the next
couple of weeks of Iowa City residents or Iowa City employers that the Center for Worker Justice has
dealt with and give them a general idea of the number served in the last 12 months by the wage recovery
program through the Center for Worker Justice. Eastham replied he could ask the staff and the director
to see what they can do about that, he knows they are not maintaining that data in table form so it would
probably be going back and looking at individual records. Vogel appreciated that as it is part of the
scoring sheet is how many people are they affecting in Iowa City.
Mohammed noted he was just curious about learning more about the wage theft and could Eastham
provide them with one brief incident about the wage theft and the effort to mitigate it. Eastham gave the
example of a woman approached them who was working in a restaurant, cleaning the restaurant after it
closed, this was a franchise restaurant, and the franchise owner stop paying her for some of the hours
she was working. The Center for Worker Justice did the usual procedures to do an investigation, talk to
the employee, get their records as they have maintained them or not, and then approach the employer
with the information that they've been provided with, listen to their story, and then reconcile the two if
there is a discrepancy. If the employer doesn't have a justification for not paying the employee for the
hours they work, then they tell the employer that they owe this employee this much money because they
work these number of hours for this wage. If the employer agrees that they've made a mistake and they
pay the back wages, then that's the end of the case. If they don’t, the Center for Worker Justice will
assemble a group of people, allies mostly, and go to the employer at their workplace and publicly state
that they owe this employee this much money for this much work. If that results in a in a change of heart
by the employer, that's fine, if it doesn't, then they’ll take more public actions, including picketing the place
of employment. In this case, because the restaurant closed after the employee had worked there and
after the Center for Worker Justice got involved, they worked with the franchise owner to get the front of
the local owner to pay the back wages. There are other situations where the relationships between
employer and employee are more complicated or different and require more effort, but the overall
approach is the same, get the information, do an investigation, approach the employer about what they
find and tell them they need to pay back money and if that doesn't work, then take more public action.
The advantage of the Center for Worker Justice doing this work is they can call upon a group of allies to
show employers that there are people in the community that are concerned about how they're treating
their employees.
Vogel noted The Gazette had a good article just last week about wage theft and it's not something he’d
really thought of as a major issue before he’d seen this application and started learning more about it. It is
both depressing and impressive how much is going on and it is a very important issue.
Padron noted Aguliar mentioned another organization, but she thought the Center for Worker Justice was
the only one working on this. Eastham pointed out the Iowa Policy Project conducted a study in 2012 and
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found in their findings there were some $600 million a year of wages being stolen from Iowa workers and
also if there are other organizations that are doing wage type recovery work, they would be happy to work
with them.
Padron stated the next application is from the Dream City and they provided their application and their
budget.
Lewis asked if this a new position for the organization or are they applying for funds to supplement the
funds for other initiatives that may not be fully funded from other entities.
Thul noted the contact for Dream City must have dropped off the call so staff can follow up with them to
get the answers to the Commission’s questions.
Padron asked if this is an established organization, or if they were planning on becoming one with this
funding.
Next application was the Corridor Community Action Network.
Alter stated she loves the idea and sees that there's a need in the community for this type of a clothing
bank but had a couple of questions logistically because it’s been done thus far on a limited scale, and if
they are wanting to scale it up do they have a physical space secured or located.
Amanda Nichols (Director, Corridor Community Action Network) stated they currently have just a physical
space for storage that they’re sharing access to with other organizations, they do not have a specific
physical place picked out for this larger project because it’s hard to secure a location before having the
funding. They do have some leads that seem like they would reasonably work for them and that was
where she budgeted the rental costs.
Alter noted they currently are working somewhat through a referral service, like through word of mouth,
and through different agency partnerships for clients but it sounds like they're actually trying to advocate
for ultimately a retail-like place similar to the food pantry that is in Pepperwood. Nichols confirmed they
are looking for like a walk-in system very similar to how the food bank functions now, but they would also
definitely continue the partnerships that they already with other organizations as well.
Alter asked how they are securing they donations or supplying items since it is a pretty big jump from 114
people up to roughly 800 which as they said in the application would be a low estimate, based on what
they're seeing in need. How are they securing those donations and how do they see sustaining that.
Nichols explained that so far with the limited space that they have all of the donations have been from
individuals but have actually been getting to a point where they're having to turn them down because they
don’t have enough space. She honestly doesn’t see there being a supply issue with used clothing in Iowa
City, as mentioned in the application it is considered one of the high impact contributors to the landfill.
Once they have more space to be able to efficiently organize more clothing, they definitely would be
looking into other sources as well, possibly talking to the university dorms for when students leave and
partnerships with thrift stores and things like that.
Lewis asked Nichols to talk more about the marketing because on the lower east side there is already
Stuff, Goodwill and a variety of other places that people can take and donate their clothing so how do
they intend to attract people to donate their clothing to this organization. Nichols noted with Stuff Etc. and
Kidworks are very picky on what they will accept, their standards are a lot higher than what people would
expect. Additionally, having pickup services is not something that is offered by other organizations and
they would be able to have people go out and pick up from dorms or other places.
Nkumu noted if this organization will be donating clothing for free to those who need it do they think they
will be competing with Goodwill who’s already doing kind of same thing with their items so cheap so
people can purchase from them and then also at the same time help the folks that work there. If because
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of this new organization, more people may not be shopping at Goodwill because they can get clothes for
free from this organization. Nichols is not concerned about competition and encroaching others as there
is such a need in this community. Nichols stated they feel there's a high enough demand that competition
is not a concern.
Nkumu asked if at any point they are going to go into furniture or other household items. Nichols replied
no, because those are already taken care of with other organizations and Corridor Community Action
Network’s ultimate goal is to help improve the quality of life in the community in the most effective ways
possible and if there are existing organizations that are working on issues, then the most effective way to
do that is to network those organizations and amplify and support each other. They only take on their
own independent projects, when there's a need that has not already been fulfilled by another
organization.
Lewis noted there is a need for donations for prom gowns, tuxedos or suits for proms for kids who are in
foster care. Nichols stated they work with Families to Families, another organization they amplify, and
they provide clothing for foster children. Nichols stated they do a lot of fundraising, they’ve had a lot of
community nights with local organizations like Chomp and Hudson's and that’s how they got things like
winter boots and a lot of winter clothing donations. And if they didn’t have the size of boots needed for a
family in donations they were able to use the funds that were donated to purchase boots for specific
people.
Vogel asked for a budget showing what they are currently are bringing in donations and other sources of
funds. He a little concerned about sustainability, being able to pay rent, insurance, utilities in a retail
location in Iowa City and is curious what other funds they have to help cover those additional costs.
Nichols stated they also currently have an application in for the Human Rights Commission Social Justice
Grant for funding for a mobile clothing closet, which has less concern about sustainability because with
the mobile concept the main cost is just that one time purchase of that truck and then fuel, insurance and
maintenance. They also have somebody who is doing volunteer marketing work and they will be taking a
percentage of the existing budget that they have and putting that into doing some more marketing work
through web banners, and the Facebook and Instagram platforms that they already have. Nichols stated
she can provide the organizational budget, they don't have any real operating costs at this time because
the work is done by all volunteers at this point and they are working out of their homes so there aren't any
overhead costs, and the storage sheds they have are already paid for the entire year.
Vogel asked if they have been putting money into reserves for future growth, or just running at a net zero.
Nichols confirmed they do have some money sitting in the bank and are accumulating money regularly
through fundraising efforts and then using it as needed to address various needs.
Alter asked what the target stand up date would be if they were able to secure this money. Nichols said it
would be after they have access to the money, which would be next fiscal year, so after July 1, 2021.
September would be definitely realistic, especially if they know before that they are getting the funds.
Alter asked about serving clients and how they are dealing with COVID and new possible variants, and
that the costs of laundering all of those items might be an operating cost that they’ll have to consider.
Drabek added also they need to know that there is the possibility of partial funding, as most agencies the
Commission funds through this process don't get 100% of what they asked for it. Nichols appreciates
knowing that as this grant process is very new to her. While she would really like to have that physical
location where they're open certain hours and people can just come, there is also a big benefit to the
mobile closet idea, particularly being able to get to communities that may have transportation issues and
things like that. They have talked about possibly trying to coordinate routes with the mobile libraries and
the mobile health clinics. So if this were to be a situation where this Commission felt that they wanted to
help fulfill this need, but don't feel that the physical retail type location is something that they're able to
support at this time, maybe they’d willing to support something more sustainable or a lower budget like a
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mobile closet and then all they would have to purchase is a truck and get it situated to be able to have
clothing racks in it.
Padron agreed that's a great idea and that project would be also great to apply for the Climate Action
Grant because clothing is such a big issue and so much ends up in the landfill so this would be a way to
really contribute to climate change.
Mohammad asked how they determine the recipient’s eligibility; do they need income verification. Nichols
stated they prefer not to do that but if it was required to receive the grant, then they could create a client
intake form.
Padron stated those are the four applications for the emerging agency grants, she noted it is a difficult
process for everyone, they want to fund every everyone and will do their best. She thanked the applicants
for coming and explaining their projects.
Returning to the Dream City application Vogel asked if staff could reach out and ask them exactly what
the funds were being used for, is it labor because the breakdown said volunteer labor and not paid skilled
or paid unskilled, so he was confused by what they're wanting to use the $15,000 request for.
Lewis also wants to know if this is an existing or new initiative.
Mohammed asked how they divide the funds among their projects, they have performing, fine arts, health
and wellness, youth leadership and family and they are not breaking down how this the funds could be
divided among this project.
Padron moved to the CDBG and HOME applications. The first one is Unlimited Abilities.
Vogel first wanted to disclose he made staff aware a couple days ago that Unlimited Abilities has tenants
in two properties that his company manages for two separate client owners on the residential side. Thul
checked with legal and there is not a direct conflict of interest for Vogel to be part of that discussion since
it doesn't affect his relationship with the tenant.
Lewis asked for more information on their fiscal model and where else funding comes from other than
City grants for the property acquisitions.
Shirley Tramble (Executive Director, Unlimited Abilities) replied that the remainder of their funding comes
from fundraising and also last year they received some funding, a loan from The Housing Trust Fund.
Vogel asked if they have some potential properties already selected, either a house or a couple duplexes.
Tramble said that is what they are looking for but they don't have anything as of yet. They are about to
close on their project funded from last year grants, but for this project, they don't have anything selected
yet.
Lewis noted another organization who had applied, withdrew their application because the need and
demand for housing that they had thought would be there was not there probably due to COVID and
individuals not reaching out and the market being very different. Is Unlimited Abilities seeing any
concerns with purchasing properties and difficulties in filling them with tenants. Tramble replied no,
actually while most agencies closed during the pandemic, Unlimited Abilities were one of the only
agencies that remained open and still have a huge demand.
Padron moved onto the next application, Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County.
Vogel asked if the purchase or lease of furnishings, equipment or other personal property needed is
eligible for a public facilities project. Thul replied it is allowable, there are specific things that can be
purchased with public facilities funds like certain fixed equipment.
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Vogel asked if the Commission get copies of the leases for both of the locations because Neighborhood
Centers of Johnson County is renting those locations and one of the buildings is owned by Iowa City and
the other is the group that owns Pheasant Ridge. Kubly said they have long term leases, the one with the
City is a 50-year lease that was signed in 1989 and then the other was signed 1996 and was a 100-year
lease. Vogel is curious to see the leases and as to why some of this stuff would be the tenant’s
responsibility, like windows and structural portions of the building, or heating and cooling needs,
traditionally would be the landlord's responsibility. He is trying to find out where these responsibilities lie
between the tenant and the owner.
Kubly noted these are not traditional leases, but she will send out copies for them to review. They are not
necessarily renting the building, and it is more of a ground lease. The City has done several NCJC
projects with CDBG funding over the years and Kubly does not think it is an issue. This is something staff
would check before entering an agreement.
Thul noted no one from Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County was on the call so she could follow up
with them on this question.
Alter asked if no knowing the answers to these questions should impede their ability to award funds.
Vogel replied he has a hard time without knowing that this is truly this organization's responsibility
authorizing funds from the City to pay what possibly could not be their responsibility.
Kubly noted they have done several projects with Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County through
CDBG funding over the years and there hasn’t been an issue.
Padron understands but agrees with Vogel that if it's the responsibility of the of the owner, why would the
organization pay for the repairs, or could apply to use these funds for something else in their programs
and then ask the owner of the building to repair what’s not in good condition.
Staff will reach out to Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County.
Padron moved onto the next applications; both are from The Shelter House. The first is the public
facilities.
Drabek wanted to know how big of a risk partial funding would be here, can this project go forward if the
funding is less than $225,000.
Crissy Canganelli (Executive Director, Shelter House) stated they didn’t mean to imply that with less than
full funding, they wouldn't be able to complete the project, just that it does change the timeline and
creates a challenge because they do need to expend the ESG (Emergency Solutions Grant) funds by the
end of the year.
Lewis noted the cost of the project, versus the number of individuals that are affected, is just a little high
based on some of the other projects that they're considering but acknowledged it is the highest risk
population in this community, and they deserve to have all of the conveniences that they deserve while
they're with Shelter House. Canganelli did noted it's a capital investment and averaging about 850 unique
individuals in a year that capital investment over an extended period of time, the life of the project, is tens
of thousands of people served. If they look at a different factor and just look at nights of shelter, they are
averaging anywhere from 22,000 to 25,000 nights of shelter each year, so that’s just a different metric of
breaking out with a cost per service unit is, but it is of a very significant cost. As they tried to explain in
the project application, they're going to need at the very least to replace the components in the existing
system, which is also a very substantial cost, and will end up in the same cycle of breaking down within
10 years and then not servicing the needs of the organization and other uses on that building. Just as
with the recent cold spell last week they had to have the folks come out and repair two more heat pumps
Housing and Community Development Commission
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as they froze up and they didn't have heat in the men's dorm again. It is a chronic problem but she does
understand it is a very significant cost.
Vogel asked when this work is done, will it end up having any impact on the actual ability to provide
services or will most of this work be able to be done just on the mechanical side of things and not affect
actual ability for people to stay in the shelter. Canganelli said they’ve been told by the mechanical
engineers that there should not be substantial interruption to the operations, especially if they can have
this project completed before the winter months.
Mohammed asked how they dealt with the loss of heat, did they have to move the tenants out.
Canganelli replied they just had to be prioritized getting the repair service to come in and replace the
components. People just had to use extra blankets and they maximized the different spaces in the
building and moved people into the areas that still had heat. It can be a challenge, but they’ve not had to
close down the shelter, they’ve been able to work through it, it's just not very comfortable and makes it a
challenging work environment for everyone.
Kealey just wanted to thank Shelter House for everything that they do because she works on the burn unit
and this is the time of the year where they get frostbite cases and during this last cold spell they have had
crazy amounts of frostbite and it would be much worse if there wasn’t the emergency shelter service.
Padron moved onto the Shelter House Rental Housing Rehabilitation application.
Vogel noted he was a bit shocked because Mutual Insurance seems to imply that the total construction
was going to be $194,000 but they're only reimbursing $90,000. Canganelli stated that at the time of
application that was their best guess estimate as they don't have the final response from the insurance
provider and the $90,000 came out of the report from the fire marshal and the fire department. As they
get more information they can certainly update the financial part of the application.
Vogel noted it seemed like the house was a total loss so why would they not reimburse the total cost, are
they pushing back on it minus the deductible. Canganelli said she believes they interested and
committed to working with them but maybe don’t feel that the house is a total loss. When they do get a
final response they will need to decide if it is cost effective to actually go through the process of tearing
portions of the house down while trying to retain and rehab portions versus just tearing the house down to
the ground.
Vogel asked if they will know within the next 30 days, because obviously the more they're willing to put
towards the insurance costs, the less Shelter House has to ask for in regards to this application. The
Commission has to make their funding recommending in a month. Canganelli feels they will have
updated information within a month and will be able understand what the costs will be in rebuilding to
ensure that they're rebuilding to a level where the tenants can age in place.
Lewis had a question about the population served, is it serving individuals with mental health with
disabilities because then that affects the priority tiers. Canganelli explained the Fairweather Lodge
program is permanent supportive housing and entirely dedicated for single adults that have a diagnosed
serious persistent mental illness. Oftentimes, folks have co-occurring disorders such as underlying
substance abuse issues, intellectual disabilities, but the diagnoses are almost exclusively schizophrenia,
bipolar disorder, serious depression, and then combinations of those other underlying health issues.
Canganelli also wanted to give a shout out to The Housing Fellowship as they helped them find a rental
so that the tenants that were at the Amhurst house are back together and functioning again at a familial
unit.
Alter asked when staff needs the Commission’s scores submitted. Kubly stated staff can put together a
spreadsheet pretty quick but if Commissioners want to review it before the meeting then they will need to
set an earlier deadline. Padron stated it does help to see other’s scores ahead of the time to know what
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February 18, 2021
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they might want to question at the meeting. Perhaps everyone’s scores should be in by March 5 and then
staff can put together the spreadsheet and distribute for review prior to the March 11 meeting.
Lewis confirmed they do not rank the emerging agency applications, just the CDBG and HOME ones.
Padron noted regarding the emerging agency applications, are they going to consider a minimum award
of $5,000 as they’ve done in the past. A lot of the agencies asked for $15,000 but not all can get the
$15,000 so they’d recommend that they only get $5,000.
Vogel asked if they don’t award the entire $30,000 is there a second round of applications that open up.
Kubly stated if they don't award the full $30,000, the money would go into the legacy agency pot and just
increase that amount a little bit.
Vogel also asked if this seemed like a small amount of organizations to apply or is this normal, this seems
like a great opportunity for a lot of up and coming groups to at least try to get involved in the pot. Padron
said they usually get maybe five agency requests, and some agencies have said they don’t apply
because they don't want to collect information about income, or gender or race and the City will ask for
that information. That is something that they might want to consider talking about maybe later in the year.
It can also be problematic because some of the legacy agencies cannot provide that information and the
funding system has to be equal for everybody.
Kubly noted regarding the Corridor Community Action Network application since it is local this funding is
more flexible than the CDBG/HOME.
IOWA CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS UPDATES:
Padron stated they have two commissioners assigned each month to the Council meetings. They
discussed this last month and everyone thought it would be a good idea to keep doing this. They have
February and March covered. Aguilar and Kealey volunteered to do April meetings.
Drabek had the February 2 meeting, he read the minutes from the meeting and aside from what appeared
to be some minor zoning matters there were not any issues flagged as relevant for this Commission.
Alter listened to the February 16 meeting two days ago and as Sarah Baron spoke earlier to this
Commission, there was the really significant update for housing about $195 million coming to the state of
Iowa and the need for the City Council to keep the water turned on for residents in arrears until they can
obtain this funding to pay their bills.
Thul commented that the Iowa City was not listed on the call for advocacy sent out by the Johnson
County Affordable Housing Coalition, and that it addressed utility shut off issues in Coralville and North
Liberty not Iowa City.
Alter stated that Sara Barron indicated it is something Iowa City is looking or intending to do.
As discussed earlier the HCDC will write a letter in support of that to Council.
Lewis motioned to have Padron draft a letter to Council to recommend delaying utility shut offs at
least until Iowa Finance Authority funds are made available for housing assistance payments to
those in need. Seconded by Alter.
A vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0 (Nkumu not present for the vote).
HOUSING & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INFORMATION:
Housing and Community Development Commission
February 18, 2021
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Thul noted in the packet was the letter from HUD about the CAPER submitted and the accomplishments
that were acknowledged.
There was an article about the CDBG-CV economic development funds that were approved, those went
to fund 27 small businesses and 22 of those were owned by women or people of color.
The CHDO set aside funds are open now for applications.
It's black history month so please follow the City on Facebook as they've posted some really good local
content along with a couple videos - one was about a historic landmark and they also did a community
connection with Dream City.
Kubly noted they did have their first meeting of the Affordable Housing Steering Committee, it was more
of an introduction meeting but that has started up and Nkumu is participating and will can keep this
Commission updated.
Padron asked if on this committee they are considering what is affordable housing, because in one of the
latest documents from a few years ago it stated a rent of $900 was considered affordable. Alter said they
can discuss that at another meeting, it's on a rolling scale and depends on situations.
ADJOURNMENT:
Kealey moved to adjourn. Aguilar seconded the motion and a vote was taken and the motion passed 8-0.
Housing and Community Development Commission
February 18, 2021
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Housing and Community
Development Commission
Attendance Record 2020-2021
•Resigned from Commission
Key:
X = Present
O = Absent
O/E = Absent/Excused
--- = Vacant
Name Terms Exp. 7/16 8/20 9/17 10/15 11/19 1/21 2/18
Aguilar, Peggy 6/30/22 O/E X X O/E O/E X X
Alter, Megan 6/30/21 X X O/E X X X X
Drabek, Matt 6/30/22 X X X O/E X X X
Kealey, Lyn Dee Hook 6/30/22 X X X O/E X O/E X
Lewis, Thersea 6/30/23 X X X X X X X
Mohammed, Nsar 6/30/23 X X O/E X X X X
Nkumu, Peter 6/30/22 O/E X O/E X X X X
Pardon, Maria 6/30/21 X X O/E X O/E X X
Vogel, Kyle 6/30/23 X X X O/E X O/E X
Date: March 5, 2021
To: Housing and Community Development Commission
From: Brianna Thul, Community Development Planner
Re: FY21 Little Creations Academy Kitchen Remodel (CDBG Public Facilities) located at
2929 E Court Street, Iowa City, Iowa
Little Creations Academy was awarded FY21 CDBG funds in the amount of $78,000 to remodel
the kitchen in the daycare facility. The project is behind schedule due to outstanding monitoring
requests that must be completed prior to entering an agreement with the City. Little Creation
Academy attended the October 2020 Housing and Community Development Commission
meeting where a progress report was provided by Pastor Anthony Smith. An excerpt from the
minutes of this meeting is attached.
Staff made the initial monitoring request on July 21, 2020 and has made regular attempts since
then. Little Creations provided the requested documentation on February 2, 2021 following an
email reminder from staff. A majority of the monitoring items have now been submitted. The
final item that must be completed before entering into an agreement for the project is
registration in the federal System for Awards Management (SAM) database. This process
has been initiated by Little Creations, but is incomplete at this time. Registration in the
SAM database is required for all direct federal funding subrecipients.
The City’s Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy requires that all CDBG projects expend a
minimum of 50% of the assistance provided for the proposed project by March 15 each year.
HCDC will hear a progress report from Little Creations Academy. Following the progress report,
staff request a recommendation from HCDC on how to proceed with the project. HCDC may
recommend the recapture and re-use of funds, or permit the project to move forward should
extenuating circumstances exist. If funds are recaptured, staff would likely use the
funds in another competitive funding round in the future.
Agenda Item #4
March 5, 2021
Page 2
October 25, 2020 HCDC Meeting Excerpt
(Pages 2-3 of Minutes)
DISCUSS CDBG PROJECTS WITHOUT AGREEMENTS:
Gabel explained that the Unsuccessful and Delayed Projects Policy on page 26 of the packet is related to
timeliness requirements from HUD. The City can only have 1.5 times the grant amount in the line of credit
to be considered timely. Expending CDBG dollars quickly is important to avoid HUD recapturing any
funds. Kubly confirmed. Gabel stated that only one FY21 CDBG project does not have an agreement at
this point and that is the Little Creations Academy kitchen rehab project. Gabel noted that Pastor Anthony
Smith is on the call to provide a project update.
Smith stated that he accepts responsibility for the project being behind and that he still needs to finish
paperwork for the City before they can enter an agreement. Smith shared that this year has had many
COVID-19 and family issues, and that he plans to have the paperwork completed by the end of the month
and the project started in November.
Padron asked staff what HCDC needs to decide about the project and where the project can go from
here.
Kubly stated HCDC will make a recommendation to allow the project to proceed or take action if they
don’t feel the project can successfully proceed with the delay.
Padron stated she would like to have Commissioners weigh in with their thoughts.
Nkumu asked if this is the first time this project has been behind because he remembers previous issues
with Little Creations Academy.
Kubly stated that the FY18 project for Little Creations Academy also came to HCDC to request additional
funds, but that it was a separate project.
Smith stated that the FY18 project being behind was not his fault as he could not find a contractor to
complete the work. If it had not been for the city he would not have been able to find a contractor.
Lewis asked how HCDC will review progress in the future.
Kubly responded that the next checkpoint for the project will be in March and that 50% of funds should be
expended at that point.
Alter asked if Smith thinks he can meet the next project checkpoint in March and have 50% of the funds
expended.
Smith confirmed that he can.
Mohamm ed stated that he understood that this year has had additional challenges and that he is
comfortable proceeding with the project.
Padron noted that she works with contractors in her job and that they are experiencing shortages of
construction materials currently, and suggested considering that with respect to the timeline for the
project.
Alter motioned to recommend continuation of the Little Creations Academy kitchen rehab project with the
understanding that 50% of the funds should be expended by the second checkpoint in March. Lewis
seconded. A vote was taken and the motion passed 5-0.
Housing and Community Development Commission
Unsuccessful or Delayed Projects Policy
Adopted by City Council March 2, 2004 in Resolution 04-68
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.
Agenda Item #4
Order of
Submission Organization Type of Project Brief Description of Project
Requested
Amount
Planned to
Assist
City Steps 2025
Goal Indicated Initial Staff Comments
1 Unlimited Abilities Rental Housing Acquisition
Acquisition of a 3-5 bedroom home to provide housing to
people with disabilities due to chronic mental illness who are
below 30% AMI
$125,000.00 3-5 clients
(below 30%AMI)
Provide public
services
6 Neighborhood Centers of
Johnson County Public Facilities (CDBG only)Rehabilitation of Broadway and Pheasant Ridge Centers $37,242.00 2012 clients
(below 80% AMI)
Improve public
facilities
7 Shelter House Public Facilities (CDBG only)Rehabilitation of emergency shelter's HVAC system $225,000.00 850 clients
(below 30% AMI)
Improve public
facilities
$387,242
Order of
Submission Organization Type of Project Brief Description of Project
Requested
Amount
Planned to
Assist
Initial Staff
Comments
1 Sudanese American
Community Services Inc. Public Services Funds to purchase iPads and laptops for online programming
during the pandemic including classes and meetings $15,000.00 500 people
(below 50% AMI)
2 The Center for Worker
Justice of Eastern Iowa Public Services Operational funds to pursue wage theft complaints $15,000.00 225 people
(below 80% AMI)
3 The Dream Center (Dream
City)Public Services
Operational funds for Connection Academies which specialize
on the following areas: performing
& fine arts, health & wellness, youth leadership, and family
$15,000.00 470 people
(below 30% AMI)
4 Corridor Community Action
Network Public Services
Funds for retail space for clothing closet that would provide
free quality clothing to community
members in need.
$14,891.40 640 people
(below 80% AMI)
$59,891
Expected Resources Total Requested Difference
Community
Development Block
Grant (CDBG)
$339,000 $262,242 $76,758
HOME Investement
Partnership
Program (HOME)
$426,000 $125,000 $301,000
Emerging Aid to
Agencies (A2A)$30,000 $59,891 -$29,891
Total $795,000 $447,133 $347,867.00
*updated with new allocation amounts received from HUD
Total Requested
FY22 Resources Summary
FY22 CDBG/HOME Application Summary
Total Requested
FY22 Emerging Aid to Agencies Application Summary
Agenda Items #5 &6
See staff memo
Date: March 5, 2021
To: Housing and Community Development Commission
From: Erika Kubly, Neighborhood Services Coordinator
Re: FY22 HOME Applications
Through the FY22 competitive funding round, Iowa City received applications from three
agencies who had projects eligible for HOME funding. Project submissions from two of those
three agencies – Successful Living and Shelter House (Amhurst Fire Recovery) were
subsequently withdrawn.
The remaining application is from Unlimited Abilities for Rental Housing Acquisition in the
amount of $125,000. Unlimited Abilities received $60,000 in FY21 HOME funds for a similar
rental acquisition project. At the time of application, staff expressed concern about the agency’s
capacity to successfully administer federal funds and maintain compliance. The FY21 project
has moved forward in a timely manner with a closing anticipated for March 11, 2021 on their
rental acquisition.
Because we are not to the point of lease-up and have not gone through monitoring with this
agency, there is still some concern about the agency’s ability to meet commitments for the
entirety of the HOME affordability period. While we continue to support the mission of Unlimited
Abilities, a second project would increase the agency’s risk for non-compliance. HOME
recipients unable to comply with program requirements typically sell their property on the private
market, and HOME funds are repaid to the HOME program. This means they no longer assist
residents in our community. Unlike program income or loan repayments that return to the City’s
line of credit for reuse in the community, repaid funds would likely get returned to HUD.
Staff also has concerns about the amount requested by Unlimited Abilities. $125,000 is 93% of
the total request, which is a higher percentage of the project cost than we typically fund. This
amount will require 15 years of HOME compliance. The ability to leverage other financial
resources is an important aspect of housing projects as reflected in the Evaluation Criteria (25
out of 100 points). Staff would require that at least 25% of the project cost be contributed by
non-HOME funds.
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends deferring this funding request from Unlimited Abilities to a mid-year funding
round for the following reasons:
1)This would allow the agency to focus on lease-up of the FY21 rental acquisition property
and would also give staff an opportunity to review the lease-up documentation for federal
compliance ahead of starting a new project.
2)Applicant has vacant units currently.
3)Based on our risk monitoring policy, concern is noted if a new agency and the funding
request is over $100,000. This project does not maximize or leverage other funding
(bank loan, other housing program, etc.).
Due to lack of project submittals, staff will need to hold a mid-year funding round regardless of
this decision. Staff recommends reviewing all HOME applications at once during this next
funding round to evaluate the proposals.
Agenda Item #5
March 5, 2021
Page 2
Staff Questions for Unlimited Abilities
Staff sent some application follow-up questions to Unlimited Abilities via email on March 2,
2021. The following is a copy of those questions and the response from Shirley Tramble,
Executive Director.
1.Q: When we talked several months back, you had seven units vacant. How many units
are currently vacant?
A: Currently, Unlimited Abilities have four (4) units vacant. We have filled some of the
vacancies since we last spoke.
2.Q: Do you have a waiting list and If so, how many individuals are on it?
A: Unlimited Abilities has a waitlist with a total of six (6) individuals on it.
3.Q: Do you market your units or rely on client referrals? What are your referral sources?
A: Unlimited Abilities market the Units as well as rely on client referrals.
4.Q: If you are still experiencing challenges fully leasing the units, can you describe those?
A: The challenge was staffing issues, but Unlimited abilities have hired new staff
members since then.
5.Q: The application budget lists the home purchase at $125,000 – are you finding
potential homes in that range? I know the first project landed around $167,000, and
home prices seem to be rising.
A: Unlimited Abilities plan is to find homes in targeted areas of Iowa City that are under
$200,000. Question? Could we ask for an increase of $25,000? I know the application
period closed, but we just wanted to know.
6.Q: Lastly, we were wondering if Unlimited Abilities would be able to financially contribute
to the acquisition if awarded HOME funds. The applicant guide lists a contribution
requirement of 25% of the HOME funds requested. What are your thoughts on that?
A: Yes. Unlimited Abilities should be able to match 25% of the home funds.
From:Crissy Canganelli
To:Erika Kubly; Brianna Thul
Subject:FY22 HOME Application
Date:Monday, March 1, 2021 6:45:25 PM
Attachments:image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png
Hello Erika and Brianna,
Thank you for your patience and responsiveness to all of my many questions regarding the
regulatory requirements when utilizing HOME funds for the purpose of rehabilitation. When Shelter
House submitted the funding request to rehab the Amhurst Lodge, we did not fully understand the
timelines required to fulfill these requirements and the limiting impact these would have on our
ability to rapidly respond both the with demolition of the existing structure and the construction.
Although we face a financial gap for the overall project we are withdrawing the request for HOME
funds. I apologize for the time this has taken both from City staff and the Commission members.
Please know we submitted the application in good faith but are obligated to proceed with the
demolition without further delay. We intend to proceed with construction soon thereafter as our
goal remains to bring everyone home before the end of the year.
Thank you again for your patience, guidance, and continued support.
Crissy Canganelli
Executive Director | Shelter House
Address 429 Southgate Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone (319) 338-5416 ext. 200 | Mobile (319) 530-8706
Email crissy@shelterhouseiowa.org
Website www.shelterhouseiowa.org
More than a roof and a bed; our mission is to provide safe shelter and help people improve the
quality of their lives as they move beyond homelessness.
Agenda Item #5
From:Crissy Canganelli
To:Erin Sullivan; Brianna Thul
Subject:update and confirmation of ESG award for HVAC system renovation
Date:Friday, March 5, 2021 8:12:50 AM
Attachments:image001.png
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
image005.png
Good Morning,
I received confirmation from IFA this morning that Shelter House has been awarded $200,000 for
the HVAC System renovation. When I submitted the application for CDBG funds the award was not
yet confirmed and I wanted to provide this update for the Commission’s consideration.
Thank you,
Crissy Canganelli
Executive Director | Shelter House
Address 429 Southgate Ave, Iowa City, IA 52240
Phone (319) 338-5416 ext. 200 | Mobile (319) 530-8706
Email crissy@shelterhouseiowa.org
Website www.shelterhouseiowa.org
More than a roof and a bed; our mission is to provide safe shelter and help people improve the
quality of their lives as they move beyond homelessness.
Agenda Item #5
FY21 Social Justice & Racial Equity Grant Applications
Organization Request
1 Open Heartland $14,749.00
2 University of Iowa Labor Center $20,000.00
3 Sankofa Outreach Connection $15,000.00
4 Food Pantry at Iowa $6,075.00
5 Bike Library $4,000.00
6 Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition $25,000.00
7 University of Iowa Liberal Arts Beyond Bars $6,575.00
8 Multicultural Development Center of Iowa $6,000.00
9 Antelope Lending Library $15,405.00
10 Domestic Violence Intervention Program $2,430.00
11 IC Compassion $25,000.00
12 Sudanese Community Center $25,000.00
13 National Alliance on Mental Illness Johnson Count $25,000.00
14 Refugee and Immigrant Association $8,000.00
15 Sylvan Learning Center $16,000.00
16 Successful Living $25,000.00
17 4Cs Community Coordinated Child Care $16,850.00
18 Johnson County Interfaith Coalition $24,990.00
19 Corridor Community Action Network $24,692.38
20 Little Creations Academy $10,089.00
21 PromptPress $3,400.00
22 Free Lunch Program $8,000.00
23 Iowa City Coralville Boxing Club $25,000.00
24 Shelter House $13,388.44
25 Interdance $7,500.00
26 Rotary Club of Iowa City (Noon)$10,000.00
27 Willowwind School $25,000.00
28 Physicians for Social Responsibility (Iowa)$8,000.00
29 Divine Media Group $15,000.00
Amount Available $75,000.00
Total Amount Requested from all Organizations $431,143.82
Human Rights Commission Grant Funding Recommendations*
*Recommendations will go to Council on 3/16/21 or 4/6/21
1 Open Heartland $14,749.00
2 University of Iowa Labor Center $20,000.00
3 Sankofa Outreach Connection $15,000.00
4 Food Pantry at Iowa $6,075.00
5 Bike Library $4,000.00
6 Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition $15,000.00
Total Awarded $74,824.00
Agenda Item #6
From:City of Iowa City
To:Brianna Thul
Subject:Climate Action Grants application opens to organizations, businesses and students
Date:Monday, March 1, 2021 12:01:38 PM
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 03/01/2021
Contact: Ashley Monroe, Assistant City Manager
Phone: 319-356-5012
Climate Action Grants application opens to organizations,
businesses and students
The City of Iowa City is making funding available for community-led climate action initiatives.
The Climate Action Grant program is designed to empower Iowa City students, businesses, and
organizations to take climate action and lead fellow community members in supporting activities that
promote energy efficiency, reduce reliance on single-occupant vehicles, encourage care for natural
spaces, and enhance quality of life for all.
Agenda Item #6
Applications for this grant will be accepted Monday, March 1 through Monday, April 1, 2021.
Successful project proposals must focus on climate action goals in Iowa City and be accomplished by
June 30, 2022. Organizations and businesses are eligible for grants up to $10,000 and, new this year,
K-12 students are eligible for grants up to $500. A total of $60,000 is reserved for this program and will
be available beginning July 1, 2021.
The online grant form can be found on the City's website at www.icgov.org/climateactiongrants.
In 2018, the City adopted a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan to address fundamental initiatives in
reaching the City’s goals to reduce carbon emissions by 45% (based on 2010 levels) by 2030, and
approach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
To learn more about the grant, requirements, and how to apply, visit our website, or contact Ashley
Monroe, Assistant City Manager at 319-356-5012 or ashley-monroe@iowa-city.org.
City of Iowa City
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Agenda Item #7
Item Number: 8.a.
March 2, 2021
AT TACHMENTS :
Description
Housing and Community Development Commission Chair, Maria Padron: Utilities Shutoff
Moratorium
Agenda Item #9