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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-12-07 Public hearing NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Iowa City will hold a public hearing on the 7th day of December, 2004, at 7:00 p.m. in the Emma J. Harvat Hall of the Iowa City City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will consider a Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of 718 Highland Avenue, also described as Lot 27 in Part One Plum Grove Acres Subdivision, Iowa City, Iowa, to a Iow-income family. Copies of the proposed resolution are on file for public examination in the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa. Persons wishing to make their views known for Council consideration are encouraged to appear at the above-mentioned time and place. MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Iowa City will hold a public hearing on the 7th day of December, 2004, at 7:00 p.m. in the Emma J. Harvat Hall of the Iowa City City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will consider a Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of 1508 Dover Street, also described as Lot 40, Village Green South, Iowa City, Iowa, to a Iow-income family. Copies of the proposed resolution are on file for public examination in the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa. Persons wishing to make their views known for Council consideration are encouraged to appear at the above-mentioned time and place. MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that the City Council of Iowa City will hold a public hearing on the 7th day of December, 2004, at 7:00 p.m. in the Emma J. Harvat Hall of the Iowa City City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will consider a Resolution Authorizing Conveyance of 2614 Indigo Court, also described as Lot 77, Whispering Meadows, Part Two, Iowa City, Iowa, to a Iow-income family. Copies of the proposed resolution are on file for public examination in the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa. Persons wishing to make their views known for Council consideration are encouraged to appear at the above-mentioned time and place. MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the City Council of Iowa City, Iowa, at 7:00 p.m. on the 7th day of December, 2004, in Emma J. Harvat Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, or if said meeting is cancelled, at the next meeting of the City Council thereafter as posted by the City Clerk; at which hearing the Council will consider: An ordinance changing the zoning designation from Medium Density Single-Family Residential (RS-8) and Neighborhood Conservation Residential (RNC-12) to Medium Density Single- Family Residential/Historic Preservation Overlay (RS-8/OHP) and Neighborhood Conservation Residential/Historic Preservation Overlay (RNC- 12/OHP) to designate the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. Copies of the proposed ordinances and resolutions are on file for public examination in the office of the City Clerk, City Hall, Iowa City, Iowa. Persons wishing to make their views known for Council consideration are encouraged to appear at the above-mentioned time and place. MARIAN K. KARR, CITY CLERK STAFF REPORT To: Planning & Zoning Commission Prepared by: Shelley McCafferty Item: REZ04-00025 REZ04-00026 Date: October 7, 2004 GENERAL INFORMATION: Applicant: Historic Preservation Commission Requested Action: Rezoning from Medium Density Single Family Residential (RS-8) and Neighborhood Conservation Residential (RNC-12), to Historic Preservation Overlay (RS-8/OHP & RNC-12/OHP) Purpose: To designate the Ronalds Street extension of the Brown Street Historic District and Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. Location: Ronaids Street between N. Van Buren and Governor Streets; N. Linn Street between Bloomington and Ronalds Streets and N. Gilbert Street between Bloomington and Church Streets Size: Approximately 14.3 and 20.8 acres respectively Existing Land Use and Zoning: Residential; RS-8 and RNC-12 Surrounding Land Use and Zoning: Ronalds Street North: RS-8/OHP, Medium Density Multifamily Residential/Historic Preservation Overlay South: RNC-12, Neighborhood Conservation East: P, Public West: RS-8/OHP, Medium Density Multifamily Residential/Historic Preservation Overlay Gilbert-Linn Street North: RS-8, Medium Density Multifamily Residential RNC-12, Neighborhood Conservation South: CB-2, Central Business Service East: RNC-12, Neighborhood Conservation West: RNC~12, Neighborhood Conservation Comprehensive Plan: Residential File Date: September 29, 2004 60-day Limitation Period: November 28, 2004 BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The applicant, the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission, is proposing the rezoning of two areas in the Northside Neighborhood to Historic Preservation Overlay (OHP) to designate two new local historic districts; the Ronalds Street extension of the Brown Street Historic District and the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. On November 19, 2002 City Council passed a resolution authorizing the Commission to submit a grant application to the State Historical Society of Iowa for the preparation of National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) nominations for three new historic districts in the Northside Neighborhood. The Commission was awarded the matching grant and contracted with architectural historian Marlys Svendsen to prepare the nominations. NRHP nominations are used to determine the historic significance and integrity of an area or property. If a proposed district complies with the NRHP criteria for historic designation, it will also comply with State and City criteria for local designation. Local districts are designated by rezoning an area to Historic Preservation Overlay, which provides for the management of changes to the exterior of properties that require a regulated permit. The Historic Preservation Commission is responsible for this management through the historic review process. Historic review ensures that the historic character of the district will be preserved, thereby stabilizing the neighborhood and encouraging reinvestment. On September 4, the Historic Preservation Commission held public hearings to discuss local historic district designation of the Ronalds Street extension of the Brown Street Historic District, Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District and Jefferson Street Historic District. The Commission voted to recommend the Ronalds and Gilbert-Linn Street districts to the Planning and Zoning Commission. Public discussion for the Jefferson Street Historic District will continue at the Historic Preservation Commission. ANALYSIS: Comprehensive Plan: In 1992 the Comprehensive Plan was amended to include the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan as a policy for the identification and protection of the city's historic resources. The plan specifically identified the Northside for historic preservation. The 1997 iowa City Comprehensive Plan reaffirmed historic preservation and the implementation of the Historic Preservation Plan: "The City has made a commitment to preserving its historic neighborhoods, and adopted measures such as historic district overly zoning as preservation tools. The Historic Preservation Plan provides further details on neighborhood preservation efforts." Specific goals and strategies of the Comprehensive Plan further support historic preservation. These include: · Art, Culture & Human Development; Document and preserve our cultural heritage - Continue implementation of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan. · Environmental Protection; Maintain the integrity of scenic and historic vistas. - Enforce appropriate elements of the Historic Preservation Plan. · Housin.q; Preserve the integrity of existing neighborhoods and the historic nature of older neighborhoods. - Develop neighborhood plans which help to ensure the continuation of a balance of housing types within neighborhoods, particularly in older parts of the city. - Support the Historic Preservation Commission's efforts to meet its goals. · Land Use and Urban Pattern; Protect the historic an natural environment within the city. - Continue implementation of the Iowa Cite Historic Preservation Plan. The Historic Preservation Plan outlines a number of strategies, goals and objectives for the preservation of historic resources and neighborhoods throughout Iowa City. Areas were identified where historic surveys and evaluations should be conducted, which included the Northside Neighborhood. Four surveys were conducted in the Northside from 1996 through 2000 and it was concluded that these proposed districts would be eligible for the NRHP and local historic district designation. The proposed historic districts are in the Central Planning District. For the Central District, the Comprehensive Plan supports preserving the integrity of existing neighborhoods adjacent to downtown and the University, which includes the Northside where the proposed historic districts are located. Land Use: Historic Preservation Overlay zoning is not intended to affect uses allowed in the underlying zone. In 1994, a land use survey was c. onducted in the area of the proposed Gilbert- Linn Street Historic District. It was determined that the character of this area as a single-family and two-family dwelling neighborhood was being threatened as contiguous lots with historic houses were being purchased, the houses demolished and a new, larger multifamily building constructed. For the purpose of stabilizing the neighborhood for single-family and two-family uses, the area was downzoned from Low Density Multifamily Residential (RM-12) to RNC-12. Legally nonconforming multifamily uses are permitted in the RNC-12 zone, provided the use is not expanded or the density increased. However, the establishment of new multifamily buildings and rooming houses is prohibited. Although the intent of the RNC-12 zone is to stabilize the neighborhood, the current requirements of the zone do not prohibit physical alterations to properties that may change the historic character of the neighborhood. Such alterations include removal of front porches, incompatible additions, covering architectural details and siding with synthetic materials, replacement of historic style windows with modern windows and similar alterations. These neighborhood changes are managed through the application of the Historic Preservation Overlay Zone in areas where the historic dwellings retain sufficient architectural integrity. Historic Preservation Regulations: The guidelines and standards that regulate changes in historic and conservation districts are contained in the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook, which was revised in February 2004. The Iowa City Guidelines are based on the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. Properties within districts are classified as contributing to the historic character of the neighborhood, noncontributing and, if less than 50 years old, nonhistoric. The applicable guidelines vary based on the property classification. Neither the Standards or the Guidelines are intended to prohibit changes to properties that are necessary to accommodate modern needs and lifestyles. Additions, new construction and demolition of nonhistoric building are allowed provided they do not detract from the historic character of the property or neighborhood. Although the guidelines primarily address alterations, additions and new construction that are designed to be similar to the existing architecture, flexibility is provided for more creative solutions that also meet the intent of the regulations. District Reports: Prior to any action by the Planning and Zoning Commission, a recommendation must be received from the State Historical Society of Iowa. The district reports that are sent to the State are attached and include maps of the districts and the NRHP Registration Forms. Summary: The Historic Preservation Ordinance states "...the Plan and Zoning Commission shall submit its recommendations to the City Council based on the relation of such designation to the Comprehensive Plan, as amended, Zoning Ordinance, proposed public improvements and other plans for the renewal of the area involved." Staff feels that the Comprehensive Plan 4 clearly supports the designation of these two historic districts and therefore recommends approval of these rezoning applications. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that REZ04-00025 and REZ04-00026, and application from the Historic Preservation Commission to rezone from Medium Density Single-Family Residential (RS-8) and Neighborhood Conservation Residential (RNC-12) to Historic Preservation Overlay (RS-8/OHP and RNC-12/OHP) to establish the Ronalds Street Extension of the Brown Street Historic District and the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District subject to recommendations from the State ' Historical Society of Iowa. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Ronalds Street extension of the Brown Street Historic District Report 2. Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Report Approved by: ~ Robert Miklo, Senior Planner, Department of Planning and Community Development Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Report Submitted by: Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission North Gilbert Street October I, 2004 Prepared by: Shelley McCafferty, Associated Planner City of Iowa City Planning and Community Development 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Historic District Nomination Report Proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission October I, 2004 The Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission is considering the nomination of an Iowa City Historic District. The proposed district is titled the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District and consists of properties between the 300 and 500 block of Gilbert Street and the 300 and 600 block of Linn Street (see Attachment A). The proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District is located within the Northside Neighborhood. Discussion regarding historic preservation in the Northside Neighborhood began in 1977 with the completion of the North Side Neighborhood Preservation Study: Historic Structures Inventory prepared by the Department of Community Development and the Institute of Urban & Regional Research, University of Iowa. By 1981, National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) nominations were prepared for both a commercial and residential historic district in the Northside Neighborhood. Discussion of local Northside historic districts began in 1984, on year after the appointment of the Historic Preservation Commission. Discussion of both NRHP and local historic districts was contentious. Although the State National Register Review Committee (SNRC) approved the Northside NRHP nominations, due to concern from the University of Iowa, the City requested that they not be forwarded to the National Park Service for listing. More than 13 public meetings were held between 1984 and 1988 to discuss the Northside historic districts. Despite multiple efforts to draw the boundaries of the Northside historic district to satisfy property owners, the Planning and Zoning Commission, the State and City Council, a compromise could not be reached. The Historic Preservation Commission and the State concluded that they should focus their efforts on the establishment of smaller, street by street districts. The Commission resolved to proceed with pursuing historic district designation in the northern portion of the neighborhoocl? Following the years of debate about preserving the Northside, Iowa City embarked on a ten month historic preservation planning process, which involved local citizens, neighborhood organizations, property owners, developers, community leaders and other interested parties. The culmination of this process was City Council's adoption in 1992 of the Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan, which was prepared by Marlys Svendsen. The plan established clear goals, objectives and strategies for historic preservation throughout the community and specific neighborhoods. The first survey efforts following this extensive planning process was in 1994 for Brown Street. Ms. Svendsen surveyed the historic resources of Brown Street between North Dubuque and Governor Streets and prepared the NRHP nomination for the Brown Street Historic. The nomination was submitted to the State and listed on the National Register later the same year. Local designation of the Brown Street Historic District was also approved by City Council later that year. In the following six years, four additional surveys and evaluations were completed in the Northside Neighborhood. In 1996, the Survey and Evaluation of the Dubuque/Linn Street Corridor was completed. Subsequently, the Survey and Evaluation of the Original Town Plat Phases land 2 were completed in 1997 and 1999 respectively, and the Survey and Evaluation of the Goosetown Neighborhood was completed in 2000. These were intensive level surveys in which all buildings in the neighborhood were evaluated. The areas surveyed were roughly bounded by Ronalds Street on the north, Clinton Street on the west, Jefferson Street on the south and Reno Street on the east. Following the completion of the Northside surveys, it was determined that five areas would potentially be eligible for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and comply with the State and City Code for designation as local historic districts. Since this recommendation, there have been substantial changes to properties along Dubuque and Clinton Streets and therefore this area is not being considered for designation at this time. Upon further evaluation, it was determined that the two recommended districts along Gilbert and Linn Streets could be combined to form a single district. The Ronalds Street extension of the Brown Street Historic District and the Jefferson Street Historic District, which were also recommended, are being considered concurrently with the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. ~ Svendsen, Marlys. Iowa City Historic Preservation Plan. Prepared for the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission, December 15, 1992, pp 20-27. 2 309 E Church Street 418 N. Gilbert Street 402 E. Davenport Street 413 N. Gilbert Street Historic District Criteria: Iowa City Zoning Code section 14-6J-3B establishes the following criteria for Historic Preservation Overlay Zones. An OHP zone is an area that contains abutting pieces of property under divers ownership that: a. Are significant to American and/or Iowa City history, architecture, archaeology and culture; or b. Possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials and workership; or c. Are associated with events that have made significant contribution to the broad patterns of history; or d. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, method of construction; represent the work of a master; possess high artistic values; represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or e. Have yielded or may likely yield information important in pre-history or history. The criteria for listing on the National Register of Historic Places is similar to the criteria for designation of local historic district. The NRHP criteria are: A. That are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or B. That are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or C. That embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or D. That have yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history. Proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District: Architectural historian Marlys Svendsen prepared the National Register of Historic Places Registration Form for the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. The NRHP 3 nomination includes properties from the 300 to 400 block of Gilbert Street and the 300 to 600 block of Linn Street. The NRHP nomination will be reviewed by the State National Register Review Committee on February 10, 2004. The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed the nomination on August I 0 and based on the findings of Ms. Svendsen, found that the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District complies with NRHP criteria A and C. NRHP criteria A and C are the same as NRHP criteria C and D of City Code respectively. The NRHP Registration Form (Attachment B) documents the historic significance of the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. The following is the summary of the NRHP Registration Form: In summary, the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District is locally significant under Criteria A and C. Under Criterion A it derives significance from its association with an important era of population growth and intense residential development in Iowa City's North Side residential area at the end of the 19~h century and the beginning of the 20t~ century. Iowa Citians built private residences for their growing families while small-scale developers constructed housing to meet the demand of a brisk rental market during these decades. The Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District's organic development followed this pattern of residential development. Additional significance under Criterion A derives from the fact that the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District represented a cross section of middle and upper income households with prominent business and professional leaders living next door to middle income and working class families. Individuals who resided in this neighborhood highlight several important themes in the city's history in the decades before and after the turn of the 20th century. Primary among these were the growing prosperity of Iowa City's German-American and Bohemian-American communities and the growth in importance of the State University of Iowa. The construction of new houses, the brisk rental of existing houses, and the infill construction pattern that produced an extremely dense residential district from ca. 1895 through ca. 1925 testify to the neighborhood's significance. Under Criterion C the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District is significant as a representative collection of the residential architectural styles and vernacular house forms that appeared in Iowa City neighborhoods from the 1860s through the 1930s. From modest Bohemian cottages to pattern book houses and elaborate multi-story mansions, the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District reflected the architectural character and best local residential building practices of the period. The District derives added architectural significance because of the large number of well-preserved residences designed by Iowa City's most productive early 20th century architect, O.H. Carpenter, between 1900 and 1918. The combination of visual qualities and historical associations gives the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District its distinct identity and significance? Guidelines: The primary guidelines for alterations, additions, new construction and demolition within the Gilbert- Linn Street Historic District have already been established, and are contained within the Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook. The handbook is available from the Department of Planning and Community Development, at the public library, and on the City's web site at www. ICgov.org. These guidelines were written to apply to both historic districts and conservation districts. In a historic district, in addition to preserving the historic character of a neighborhood, more concern is given to the individual buildings as historic resources. The Historic Preservation Commission also recommends Neighborhood District Guidelines, which address architectural style, site and scale issues specific to each district. In February 2004, the City adopted the revised Iowa City Historic Preservation Handbook. Added to the handbook were the Northside Neighborhood Guidelines for the Brown Street Historic District. The Commission proposes to apply these district guidelines to the Gilbert- Linn Street Historic District as well (Attachment C). 2 Svendsen, Marlys. Gilbert-i-inn Street Historic District, Johnson County, Iowa, National Register of Historic Places Registration Form, January 2004, p 30. 4 Contributing/Noncontributing Buildings: In order to administer the historic district guidelines, buildings within the proposed district are categorized as contributing, noncontributing or nonhistoric. A property is considered to be contributing if the primary structure is an integral part of the historic context and character of the District. A noncontributing property is an property that is not listed as contributing. A nonhistoric property is any noncontributing property within a district that is less than 50 years old at the time the district is designated. Noncontributing properties may be more than 50 years old, but are classified as noncontributing if they have been substantially altered, significant architectural features have been removed or was not constructed during the district's period of significance. The NRHP Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District contains 86 properties. Of these, six are noncontributing and two are nonhistoric. For the purpose of creating a more regular boundary, the Historic Preservation Commission is proposing to also include the 500 block of Gilbert Street in the local Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. The 500 block of Gilbert Street contains nine additional properties, one nonhistoric, one noncontributing and seven contributing. This results in 95 properties total within the local Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. Of these, 95 (89%) are classified as contributing to the character of the historic district. Summary: Upon studying the Northside Neighborhood, and in particular the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District, the Historic Preservation Commission feels that the designation of this area as a historic district is warranted. The area retains its traditional neighborhood character and a sense of time and place, and a majority of the structures within the district contribute toward this character and are architecturally intact. Designation of this historic district will protect the neighborhood from demolition and inappropriate new construction and renovation, which detract from its character. It is hoped that with historic designation, this district will begin to experience the same type of investment and improvement that has been occurring within other designated historic districts, such as Brown Street and East College Street. In these areas, there have been a remarkable number of building rehabilitation efforts, and a number of property owners have credited the historic district designation as a major part of their decision to invest in their properties. Because they have some assurance that their neighborhood will retain the qualities that attracted them there, they were more willing to make a substantial investment in their own properties, which is in turn an investment in the neighborhood. RECOMMENDATION: The Historic Preservation Commission is of the opinion that the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District meets the criteria for designation as defined under City Code Section 14-4C, Historic Preservation Regulations, and 14-6J-3, Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (OHP), and recommends that the proposed Longfellow Historic District be approved. ATTACHMENTS: A. Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District map. B. NRHP Registration Form: Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District C. Northside Neighborhood District Guidelines. D. Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District designation ordinance E. Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District public hearing minutes. F. List of current owners in the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Attachment A Proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District (local) RONALDS ST · CHURCH ST FAIRCHILD ST I DAVENPORT ST · BLOOMINGTON ST MARKET ST Property Classification ~ Key property ~ Contributing property ~ Noncontributing property N [~ Nonhistoric property J The NRHP Registration Form for the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District is available on the web at www.icgov.org. 0ct. 29. 2004 12:01PM No, 0271 P, I_iSTATE ISTORICAL S._O_C. IE.Ty', of A Division Of The Department of Cultural Affairs October 98, 9004 Shelley McCafferty Associate Planner City of Iowa City 410 east Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240-1826 RE: State review and comment on proposed local designation of t the Gilber~-Linn Street Historic District Dear Shelley: Thank you for ~abmitting the nomination for the propo~d Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. We understand that our letter of October 20 regarding the proposed Linn/Gilbert Street local kistozic district may have caused some confusion. We concur with the Iowa City Historic Preservation District that the proposed local historic ~ct being reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission complies with the Iowa City and State Code for local disMct designation. Although we think that the district could reveal its history more fully by including the 15 commercially zoned properties, nominated /or National Register listing, in March 2004, the State does not require that local historic district boundaries match National Register Historic Districts. If you have a_ny questions o~ concerns regarding our review and comment, please do not hesitate to contact me at 515/281-6826 or kerry.mcgragb@iowa.eov. Sincerely, Kerry C. McGrath ~ Local Governments/CLG Program Coordinator Cc: Barbara Mitchell, SHSI Ralph Christian, SHSI Lowell Soike, SHSI poat-IP Fax Note 7671 I oet~ # of Phone 600F_,AgTID~rSmmtmT DE~MOI~'E~IA $031%0290 p:($J3)281-6~26, N_.M~'ke~y.mcgrath~iowa,gov 0ct, 21. 2004 10:13AM No, 0212 P. 1 hSTATE ISTORICAL A Division Of The Department of Cultural Affairs October 20, 2004 Shelley McCaffen~ Associate Plann~ City o£ Iowa City Iowa City, Io~ ~2240.1826 ~: S~te Hist~c Pr~a~ Offic~ review ~d ~,n~;;~eut ~ ~o ~osed 1~ desi~don of~e Ro~ds S~eet ex~on of~o Bm~ S~t ~fic ~c~ ~e Gfl~-Lm S~ot Historic DisMct, D~ Shelley: ~ you for ~b~ ~e no~.a~ f~ ~ p~ed Roml~ S~ea ~on to ~e Bro~ S~eet H~t~c DisM~ ~d ~e Oflb~-Lm S~eet ~to~c D~ct. Keg~g ~e pro~sed RoaM~ S~eet extemion to ~ Bro~ S~ea Hmtofic DisMc~ we conc~ wi~ o~i..nee be desi~.t~ ~ Iowa Ci~ ~o Reg~ ae propos~ ~-Iinn S~eet ~Wfic Dis~ct nomina~o~ we do not con~ ~ ~e Io~ CiW ~c ~es~afion ~mmis~on's ~mmen~fio~ for ~e boodles of~ propos~ ~ ~ ~e ou~ M ~e Oc~ber 11, 20~ lv~ tom ~wo~ So~e ~d Mcmo~m tom ~ph ~ a copy of wMch ~ ~cl~d. ~e p~s~ nominations zeflect Io~ CiW's commi~ent to Mstofic prese~afion. A co~M~ent ~t ~s ~Mted m ~g, weH-~ Maonc ne~rhoods as weH as ~y d~cfive l~. ~ ~ ~e Mayor, CiW Co.cfi, Historic Pmse~a~on Co~sio~ PI~ ~d ~ne Commission ~d CiW s~ for t~e and ~d work. If you ~ve ~y qu~sfio~ or conc~ mg~d~ ot~ renew ~d coua~on~ plea~ do not hesim~ to conta~ me at ~15/281-682~ or k~rw.m~rath~iowh~ov. LowoB So~e, S~I POSt-it' F~ Note 7671 ~]- , [~ges Oct. 21, 2004 10:14AM No. 0212 P, 2 .. STATE HISTORICAL A Division of the Iowa Depar~'nt of Cultural Aff~jrs ....... October 1 I, 2004 Shelley MeCafferty, Associate Planner City of Iowa City Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City Iowa 52240 RE: REVIEW OF REVISED NATIONAL REGISTER NOMINA~ON FOR GILBERT-LIN-lq STREET HISTORIC DISTRICT Dear Ms. M¢Cafferty: We write in response to your letter of September 14, 2004, requesting that our staffreview the revised nomination l~oted above and explaining how and why the boundaries of tho district were changed. This revised nomination went through our normal group review last wee& by our historian RalPh Christian, Architectural Historian Barbara Mitchell, and National Register Coordinator Beth Foster Their decision was to defer on the eligibility or ineligibility of the new district They believe that the Preservation Commission erred by not making its decisions and recommendations solely on historical si~ifieance and integrity but apparently on planning and political considerations. Enclosed are the group review comments prepared by Ralph Christian, spelling out our concerns in more detail. You should also be aware that we have received a request from property owners in the area proposed for exclusion, requesting that the original nomination be submitted to the National Park Service and indicating a possible intention to file an appeal under 60.12 of the regulations of the National Register ,nless we do so. Please review Ralph's comments on this issue as well, Further comments or questions should be directed to Ralph at 515/281.8697 or 1Lalph. Cl'aitsfian~_,,lOwa~Oov or to me at 515/281-3306 or 1,owell.$oikef~Iowa. Gov, Sine re Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer Cc: Ralph J.. Christian, Historian, SHSI Barbara Mitchell, ArchitecturaJ Historian, SHSI ~he 'rryFOstcr I-Ifil, National Register Coordinator, SHSI MeGrath, Local Gov'erTaments Coordinator, SHSI 600EmxLocusT~, D~sMo~_,s. IA 50319-0290 P: (515)281.5111 ° 0ct,21, 2004 10:14AM No. 0212 P. 4 Octeber 1!,, 2004 To: Iowa City Historic Preservation Comm~on From:Ralph $. Christian. Historian and Professionsl Evahator for CLO National Register Review Subject: Revised National Register Non:;;;~tion for Gilbert. Linn S~eet Historic District A_flor spending considerable time reading aud comparing the lwo varsious of the (3ilbe~t-Liun Historic District National Register No,,~ation; readi~ and analyzing the flndi~s and mc~,, of the commission at thdr Augast 10 meeti~ as described in Shell~ McCafferty's September 14 letl~ to Lowell Soike; snd reviewin§ federal re~tlatio~ ~ ~uidelinas on nominatin~ properti~ to the National Register. we have deaded at ,hi~ time to defer recommending either ell~-bility or inehga~ility for tile revised distri~ The reason for our decision to defer is o~ belief that the Preservation Co~i~ion erred in i~'tructhlg the consultant to prepare a revised no~n~tion w/th new boundaries based not on the Mstorical and ~hitectural development of the Gilbc~t. Linn Street neighborhood and the National Register Criteria b~t largely on politi~l ~nd planning considerations. As'pointed out in National Registw Bulletin: How to Complete th~ National Register Registration Form. the reasons for sel~ti~ boundaries "should be ba~ed on th~ prop~y~s historic si~fil~icance and inteSrity," (p,55) In reviewin~ nominations, co,,,,,,is.sion members should b~ co~,~t ofNafl0nal K%~ter regulatian~; be aware of all relevant National Register ~tidance bulletins on the specific prop~y type~; be familiar with th~ r~ord of past co.,.,is~iens in e~klllatin~ slmil~ properties; ~ base thek decisions solely on accepted histo~c preservation standards and s~icte3ines. According to the National Reffister Bulletin: Ho,.w,to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. historic d/stfiets posseis 'a sifficant conc~tmion, hnkag~, oz continuity of sites, buildings, structures, or objects united histor/eally or aesthetically by plan or physical devalopment." (p.5) This has been the approach we have taken/n the past ha e~tablishin~ boundaries for the numerous d/stricts we have surveyed and ewluated/n Iowa City for the past 15 years. This is tile approach that la~ bexm ut~li~l by our st~ the consultants hired by the City. and tmtil August 10 by the Iowa C~ty Hiaoric Pr~ervatim Cx.~:.,.i~sion The bonnda~es seleaed for the Oilbert-Linn District reviewed by thc Sml~ Nominations Renew C( ...... ~ ~ Jmo w~ b~ed ~ s~ ~oy ~d eval~fion effo~, so~ of w~ch ~ted b~k ~ ~e ~ly 1980's. ~e ~o~i~ on appr~t, ~ ~ baed on w~t we be~ov~ ~ a mmemus wo&~ om by o~ prof~sional s~ff, ~e h~y qm~ed hstofi~ ~d ~cht, c~ ~W~an~ ~ by ~e ci~, ~d ~c ~c pres~afion co~ission. ~ decisiom were b~ on ~tofi~ devHop~t paR~ ~ ~e nd~orhoo~ ia achte~ q~lifies, and what we ~o~ly felt w~e d~f~sible bo~ ~t en~a~ed ~ ~t ~ ~co~ed ~* ~ ~g~ of pro.es, ~clu~ ~e o~e~ ~v~g b~gs ~g back to ~e 1850's, ~d ~e ~s~b~ ~ere ~t bo somb pot~ for ~ofic ~cheologic~ pr~es ~ &e area. The revised G-ilbert-Linn D/strict, however, deletes 15 contu~uting properties, whose historical and arch/tectural development are fled directly to the overall significance of the neighborhood. In partie,,iar this eliminates the two el&st bt~dings in tho d/strict from its boundaries. ~ bas necessitated changing the beginning dale of the period of ~gn~ficance for the district from 1850 to 1860, whiclh in our opinion~ copstltutes a gen-ymenfler of the neighborhood's history. Therefore, we recoranend that you reconsider your decision of August 10 in fight of the eom,~nts noted above. Should you decide to pursue listing the district w/th the revised bo0ndary, you have the r/ght to appeal direr'fly to the State Historic Preservation Officer with the request that said n0n;ination be reviowed '' 0¢t,21. 2004 10:14AM No. 0212 P, 6 l>age 2 by the State Nominatlon~ Review Cornmltto8 at it~ February 2005 me, et~g. Please be aware, however, tha! we have received ~ request f~om property owner~ in the area pl'opo~sd for exclusion equ s g w~ forward the original district ntrni~ation to the NaUonal Park Servioe and indicaQn~ their possible tntanfion to file an appeal under 60.12 of the regulations of'the N~onal Rel~lster unless we do so. A~ordinl~ to 60.12(a) "any person or local ~overnro~nt may appeal to the Keeper the failure or refusal ora no--hating authorit7 a prop~ that the person or local gove~ment consiSers to mee~ ~he National Register ~teria for ~valu~t/on upon de~i~ion of a norninati~ authority to not nominate a property for any mason when requested purs,,~ to t~0.11, or upon failure ora State Fiistor/o Preservation Officer to nominat~ a propert7 recoua,,ended l~y the ~tate R~view Board.~ Depending on when th~ National Register o~c~ receives such an ~l~peal, the e~eot could be to process the original nomination before the revised nomination might be considered. As Fou will recall, that orlgi~al n¢.....;.~tiun was reviewed and approved by our staff as well as your c~,,..~:~sion; property owners were properly notified in accordance with federal and state mquiremants; was opposed by only a small p~centage ofproperty owner~; and was aPl~OV~"~nimnusly by the State Nominations l~evi~w ComrniUee. We aF~eed to del~y forstardi~g t~is nominafio~ tO the National Park Service to allow th~ Cit7 and Commission additional time for hearings and educ~onal m~ with property o~cnors in th~ distric~ with what we thought was an und~rstandinff tO forward it to lqP8 afar August 10. If ancl when we receive tbJ~ appeal, we will be proc~ss/ng it in accora'n~,e wi~h the procedures for Nomination Appeal in Part t;0.12 of the National llegister of Historic Places ;egulations. Since this process is likely to start and poss~Jy be concluded before the next meeting of the ~tate l~.eview Committee /n February 2005, you may wish to file a counter appeal, l~aving the ~aal dec/~'on on the district and its boundary up to the Keeper of' the National l~egist~r of ttistoric Places in Washlngton, D.C~ We await your decision on how you w/sh to proceed. James B. and Becky J. Buxton 1811 Muscatine Avenue Iowa City, Iowa 52240-6414 (319) 354-7262 November 29, 2004 Iowa City Council Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Council Members: As the property owners of 403 North Linn Street, 225 Church Street, and 402 East Davenport Street in Iowa City, we want to go on record as being opposed to the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. As such we want to have our three properties excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. We had submitted a similar letter dated September 29, 2004, and wanted to update our letter to reflect our purchase of 402 East Davenport on November 1, 2004. Please note our opposition/request in your records in advance of the public hearing at the Council Meeting on December 7th. Sincerely, James B. Buxton RB/OPP-CC STA~ oF Io~A ) · ~CI~qSOt4 COtl, t~ ) ?~aP/f~__ ~na aa~4or sa, id Com~ and State, personally appeared to me imo~n to be the xdentical persons naaed in and ~d~o executed the ~5.thin and foregoing instrm~ent and acknowledged that they executed tl~ sa~e as their voluntary act and deed. Commission Number 22 ~ 8 ~ 9~ (-~tJ.__._~_F~5 J -Hot,~ ~lic ~ ~d for ~e 8~te of I~ Page 1 of 1 Marian Karr From: Jill Gaulding [JilI-Gaulding@uiowa.edu] Sent: Thursday, November 18, 2004 7:22 PM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: Proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Dear Council Members: I live with my family in the proposed historic district. Because I felt somewhat torn about the proposal, I put together a list of pro and con arguments (see attached). After evaluating these arguments, I have concluded that the proposal is a good one. I hope that after considering these and other arguments, you will do so as well. Sincerely, Jill Gaulding Associate Professor College of Law University of Iowa Iowa City, IA 52242 Phone: (319) 335-9047 Email: Jill-Gaulding~uiowa.edu *** eSafe scanned this email for malicious content *** *** IMPORTANT: Do not open attachments from unrecognized senders *** 11/19/2004 On the Proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District Would it be a good idea to rezone the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood as a local historic district? Legitimate arguments can be made on both sides of this question. On balance, however, the proposed rezoning seems like a good idea - good for the residents, good for property owners, and good for the larger community. The Pro Arguments 1. The historic district designation would help to preserve a valuable part of Iowa City's historic heritage for future generations. Historic neighborhoods enhance cultural and arts institutions in the area by attracting tourists and other visitors. They also offer both "backward- looking" and "forward-looking" educational benefits: "backward-looking," because they provide a tangible, imagination-stirring link to the past, and "forward-looking," because they model the type of dense, walkable, transit-friendly neighborhoods that many planners and environmentalists now seek to emulate. 2. A historic district designation would operate as a positive signal to families who might otherwise doubt the wisdom of living in a neighborhood with lots of student residents. The rumor mill says, "oh my goodness, you wouldn't want to live there," but the historic district designation allows families to say, confidently, "oh yes, we do," because they know that others agree with them about the positive characteristics of the neighborhood. 3. By encouraging families to live in the neighborhood, the designation would help to preserve its vibrancy, diversity, and livability. Students can make wonderful neighbors, but because they tend to be transient, they often need help to be good citizens of the neighborhood. The permanent residents of the neighborhood can offer that help - for example, by showing students how the complicated trash and recycling system works and by modeling respectful behavior. (Loud parties and trashed yards can be controlled by citations and fines, but most people would prefer a neighborhood that's livable because residents see themselves as responsible members of a community - and few things seem to inspire responsibility better than knowing that small children live across the street.) 4. The historic district designation could also help to preserve the economic diversity of the neighborhood which arises from its traditional mix of large-, medium-, and small-sized homes and lots. To further ensure economic diversity, the City could consider relying on some of this housing stock as part of a program to ensure the availability of low-income housing in Iowa City - not in isolated locations but as part of a supportive neighborhood with services, shops, and a wonderful and diverse public school all within walking distance. 5. Historic district designations bring positive attention to Iowa City. Many of the "top ten" lists of "livable cities" or "great college towns" rely, among other factors, on the number of historic districts a community has. Iowa City deserves to be on those lists, and appropriate historic preservation efforts help to ensure that it will continue to be on them. 6. The historic district designation could help to attract new employees to the Iowa City economy. Some potential residents would prefer to live in a suburb, some would prefer a rural home, and some prefer a downtown neighborhood. By preserving its historic residential neighborhoods, Iowa City can ensure that potential residents have the widest possible array of choices, which in turn helps local employers, including the University, to recruit and retain employees. 7. The designation would benefit the downtown business community, which draws a large part of its customer base from downtown neighborhoods. A downtown business district like Iowa City's - which we are lucky to have - needs pedestrians to survive, and those pedestrians tend to be people who live nearby. Indeed, nearby residents tend to be the most loyal shoppers, so it is in businesses' interest if local neighborhoods include a diversity of residents, who are interested in purchasing diverse products and services. The Con Arguments (and Some Responses) ~. The local designation would reduce the freedom of property owners who value "just being left alone." This is true, but it can't be a slam-dunk argument. After all, many laws and regulations, including existing zoning law and nuisance law, reduce the freedom, and thus the rights, of property owners. It's always a question of trade-offs: the costs of the proposal, including an incremental reduction in property rights, need to be balanced against the benefits. It is important to note, on this point, the essential "open-endedness" of property rights. Because communities reserve the right to change their 2 laws over time, no property buyer can buy the right to enjoy current freedoms, whatever they are, forever. Buying property means taking on the risk that current laws will change in ways that the new owner might perceive as either positive or negative. In this particular neighborhood, furthermore, the risk (or promise) of historic preservation has long been obvious, since efforts to obtain national and local designations have been going on for years, if not decades. 2. The local designation would create additional bureaucracy. This is true. The fact that property owners will need additional approval for certain types of changes to their property is certainly one cost of the proposal. However, the cost appears to be fairly minimal, given the efficiency of the Historic Preservation Commission. Furthermore, this additional "bureaucracy" provides benefits as well, in the form of free expert advice to owners about the best ways to pursue their goals. 3. The local designation would impose unfair costs on property owners by limiting their ability to use vinyl siding or certain types of replacement windows. It is unclear, at best, whether these limitations impose significant costs. Siding and window salespeople naturally claim that their products are cost-savers. But other experts often disagree. They argue, for example, that siding a house can harm the structure, in the long run, because it hides water damage and mold, and that neither cheap replacement windows nor siding appreciably reduce heating and cooling costs. "Quickie" siding and window jobs may look good, in the short run, but in the long run a house's value is probably best preserved by quality paint jobs, done by local contractors with good reputations. In any event, even if it is true that the siding and window limitations impose significant costs on owners, it does not follow that the costs are "unfair." Again, it is a question of comparing these costs, if any, to the benefits of the proposal, both to the owners and the community at large. 4. The local designation could reduce property values or the amount of rental income available from buildings in the district. This is a legitimate concern, but it doesn't seem to be well-founded. If anything, the historic district designation tends to increase residential property values, not reduce them, since it enlarges the market of possible buyers to include more families. (Admittedly, owners would be not free to raze their properties and build new ~o-story buildings, no matter how lucrative - but this is true as a matter of current zoning, not the minor additional regulations that would be imposed by the historic district overlay.) Rental income is also unlikely to be negatively affected. While some renters may not care one way or the other about the historic district designation, other renters will appreciate living in an historic neighborhood for the same reasons outlined above. 5. The local designation would allow some residents to impose their arbitrary tastes on other residents. This would be true only if the Historic Preservation Commission made arbitrary decisions, but there is no reason to assume that it will do so, and in fact the record suggests the opposite. The concern seems even less pressing in light of the actual - not rumored - scope of the Commission's authority. Because the Commission cannot tell owners how to use their properties, when or whether to repair them, or what color to paint them, it has less opportunity to be arbitrary than some detractors seem to assume. In fact, the Commission's purview is limited to the appropriateness of significant structural alterations. Like any other government body, however, the Commission needs to make its decisions in the light of day, on the basis of legitimate standards, and the community as a whole needs to be ready to challenge any decision that seems arbitrary, biased, or simply overly strict. 6. The local designation would be elitist. This is a very serious accusation. Many, if not all, of the supporters of the proposed designation would withdraw their support if they became convinced that the accusation was accurate. But there is good reason for doubt. It is too easy to conclude that historic districts must be elitist because they can be associated with stereotypical "elitist values" - that is, the argument that only "latte-sipping, New York Times-reading, fancy-car-driving jerks" would care about living in an historic district. In fact, the opposite argument could be made: Isn't it elitist to assume that only an "elite" would value an historic district? Perhaps the accusation is meant to be more concrete - not about stereotypes but about hard financial faets. In that case, the argument would be that the designation would cause the neighborhood to become homogenized - a neighborhood for rich people only. Once again, however, the opposite is probably true. A great benefit of residential preservation is its preservation of the mixed housing stock that was common when places like Iowa City were established. Unlike more modern neighborhoods, the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood is accessible to residents with diverse income levels. Recognizing and protecting the neighborhood as a historic district would tend to maintain this diversity, not reduce it. And of course - it should go without saying - nothing about the historic designation 4 would preclude the placement of emergency shelters or low-income housing programs in the neighborhood. On Balance On balance, the pro arguments outweigh the con arguments, particularly because many of the con arguments seem to dissolve upon closer examination. Though it would certainly impose some costs, the benefits of the historic district designation would outweigh those costs - which means that it would, in fact, be a good idea to protect the historic value of the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood, as proposed. November 17, 2004 City Clerk / City Council 410 Washington St Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: I'm writing to share that upon further consideration of the issues involving the historical neighborhood for the North Side Neighborhood that I am now in favor of such designation. I would like to reverse my previous indication of being opposed to the designation. I'm available to discuss this with you further as appropriate. ~ly, Don Stumbo 319-351-3698 owner, home at 323 N Linn St. STATE OF IOWA COUNTY OF JOHNSON On this ]~- day of ~OGf~l~£, 24D©~, before me, the undersigned, a Notar~ public in and for the State of Iowa, personally appeared ~D~c~Cc~ ~tJ_r~O who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. ,.~t~,~t · KI~L~.IE K. TUTrLE I' ~ffil '1 My Commissien Expires I .~ Notary Public in and for Iowa Donald Stumbo 3082 Running Deer Rd NE Iowa City, IA 52240 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street .~ Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the property at 323 North Linn I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and want my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Donald Stumbo Date cc: Iowa City Council ST^TEOF ,COU T¥OF . ,ss: On this ~ day of 12~,,'t2DhOr' , ~D. 20 ~, before me, the unde~gned, a Not~ Pu¢lic in and ~r said state, personally appeared ~hO~[~ ~~, to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and ac~owledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. i ~1 KIMBERLY K~LPATRlCK I -- ,I ,Nota, Public in and for said state. Lisa Collier & Ed Romano 524 Church Street Iowa City, IA 52245 October 28, 2004 Dear Planning and Zoning Commission, We are writing to you in support of designating both the Gilbert-Linn and Ronalds Street areas as historic districts. We feel that this designation is consistent with Iowa City's general plan for this neighborhood, and would be a very positive step toward preserving another part of what makes Iowa City an interesting and unique place to live, work, and raise families. We have owned our home on Church Street for nearly twelve years, and during this time have been both pleased and saddened by changes that have been made to many of the older homes in the Northside Neighborhood, as well as to homes in neighborhoods adjacent to ours. Designating the older areas of Iowa City as historic can provide property owners with the guidelines necessary to preserve the value of some very special places in our unique community. Thank you for your consideration with regard to this important matter, and for all that you do on behalf of the City of Iowa City. Sincerely, Lisa Collier & Ed Romano October 21, 2004 ~4~nning and Zoning Commission Iowa City, Iowa Dear Planning and Zoning Commission: I am writing in reference to the proposal for the Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I own one of the "key properties" in the proposed district, located at 314 Fairchild. I strongly urge you to support this proposal. It will help enhance and preserve the historical integrity of the neighborhood. Please feel free to contact me if you have further questions. Thank you for consideration of this proposal. Sincerely, 314 Fairchild ' Iowa City, Iowa 52245 ~ 319-358-6342 email: marcy-rosenbaum@uiowa.edu ) SS: j~soN coo~r~ ) On this ~ day of Ot-~'/)~E/Z_ , '~I', before me, ~e mdersi~ed, a No~w ~lic in ~d for s~ ~mW ~ Slate, perso~lly a~eared to m ~ to be ~e identical ~rs~. forego~g ~stmnt ~ ac~ledged t~t they exe~tea act ~d deed. I -~, I 80NO~E FORT I~'~J Gommission Number ~ 5~791J ~gJ My~o~ission ~l~ J ,- NotaW ~c Kip Pohl c/o Koystone Propcrt7 .Management Iowa City, TA S22~ Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission -- ?-7 Civic Center 410 E, W~shington Si-met Iowa City, IA 52240 ,:'~, -< r,o :.~ Dew Planning & Zoning Commissioners: :<: I'~ ~ i'"'['l I own the property at 512 North Oi.lbert Street. I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed C, ilbert-Linn Historic District and want my property exciuded from the proposed local Oilbert-Lirm Historic District. Sincerely, cc: Iowa City Council , . STATEO.F ::~//;.~o:'~ ,COUNTYOF C_o~,~_ ,ss: On this ~.~9_~.day of ~.~o~_~-.. , A.D. 20 o,/, beforeme, the und~signe~ a Not~ ~blic in and for said s~te, pe~nally ~pe~d ~; ~ ~ , , to me known tO be the p~n n~ in and who ~ec~ ~e foregoing Mstmme~ sad ao~owl~d ~at he ex~ted the ~me as Ms :~ NOt~ PUbliC, State of Illinois ~ J October 21, 2004 (IC1004) Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Iowa City City Council Civic Center ~ 410 g Washington ~ ~© ~- Iowa City IA 52240 >'4 ~ -lq Re: Proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District .... ~ -- ~ Property: 514 N Gilbert (A single family residence) ~ Representatives: ~ o OPPOSITION to the above referenced proposed ordinance is hereby registered on behalf of the subject property. Reasonable efforts to preserve our neighborhood are admirable. ~olesale historic designation is an unreasonable and arbitrary seizure of cherished property rights. Appropriate city planning can achieve the desired result. John Bakas, Owner 514 N Gilbert Iowa City IA 52245-2132 319-338-0938 s'rAT~ O~ ~OWA ) ) ss: JO~SO~ 03UNT~ ) On this~h~ day of (~Sc~F , . .Q'~O'-~ ~fore m, ~e ~dersi~ed, a No~ ~blic ~ ~d for said ~ ~ S~te, ~rs~lly a~ared to m ~ to ~ ~e identi~ ~rs~ ~d ~ ~ ~o exerted t~ ~ ~d forego~g ~t~nt ~d ac~ledged t~t they exe~t~ t~ s~ as their vol~taw act ~d deed. Shelle~/McCaffert~ From: Bob Miklo Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2004 11:37 AM To: Shelley McCafferty Subject: FW: Proposed Historic District ..... Original Message ..... From: Lisa Koizumi [mailto:LKoizumi@isbt. com] Sent: Thursday, October 21,2004 11:36 AM To: bob-miklo@iowa-city.org Subject: Proposed Historic District Bob, Thank you for answering my questions in regard to the proposed historic district. My name is Lisa Koizumi and I own and live at 324 E. Fairchild Street in the heart of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. My husband, Brice Critser and I are in support of the local historic district rezoning. Appreciatively, Lisa 21 October, 2004 Dear Planning and zoning Cu~u,~ssion, We are writing to ask you to support the designatic~ of the Gilbert-Linn and Ronalds Historic Districts as consistent with Ic~a City's general plan for this neighborhood. We own and live in our house at 311 Fairchild Street in Iow~ City. Like many of our neighbors, ~e are pleased and thrilled that cur house and neighborhood bare been selected to be part of the National Register of Historic Places. We tx~pe that will also l~ad quickly to the designatic~ of a local historic district. Our house is an 1896 single-family home in a mixed owner-occupied and remtal residential neighborhood. We make an effort to maintain the property in good ccnditic~, ~ bare recently bad major renovation ~ork ckme on the garage/outbuilding to stabilize and paint it. We are long-time Iowa City residents, and for the past 30 years have lived in various older neighborhoods. We also c~n a single-unit remtal property in the Lc~gfellow District. Part of %~hat we emjoy and believe is unique and attractive about Iow~ City are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved hcmes av-~ilable to both renters and potential h~nec~ners. Designation of a historic district is ene of the best ~ys to preserve the value we have invested in these properties. We are t%~ppy to support the proposed designation, and believe it will enhance and help to maintaJm cur historic neighborhood while in no ~ inhibiting property owners frcra using the properties as they %~_re intended. Please continue to support the rec~u~ndation of the State and National Register Nominations Review C~mittees, the State Historical Society of Iowa, and Friends of Historic Preservation, and designate cur house and neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, ~ ~~/~ Susan Futrell ~nd will 311 Fairchild St. Iow~ City, IA 52245 319-337-7770 cc: Iowa city City Council Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commision Civic Center 410 E Washington St Iowa City, IA 52245 Krista Goldsberry 414 N Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Hello- I am a long time resident of the proposed district and would like to express my support for the Gilbert-Linn Historic District and my particular concern for the fate of a property neighboring mine, 402 E Davenport Street. I have lived in the house I recently purchased for over ten years. I have been an iowa city resident for over 15 years. I chose to live in this neighborhood and eventually purchase property in this area largely due to the unique demographic mix of students, professionals and families. Our block is just as diverse culturly. I have witnessed the restoration of many houses in the neighborhood, and seen the decline of many areas proliferated with conversion oft-campus housing. As far as I can tell, it is primarily the landowners who profit from the resources of our neighborhood it, but do not reside here that stand in strong opposition to this change. It was not my neighbors knocking on my door, offering to bring a notary over to sign a pre written opposition letter. It was someone who does not even live here. I guess they stand to lose a buck. If the restrictions for historical districts in the city needs t6 be re-examined, that is a different issue. Is this neighborhood worth all the effort of creating this district?- I say yes. Specifically concerning 402 Davenport, I understand they are planning on turning the property into a rental house. I am concerned this will create another 'party house' in the neighborhood and perhaps set the trend for the entire block toward more rentals and fewer single family homes, ultimately resulting in a student ghetto of sorts, exploiting properties for their income with no regards for the culture the neighborhood or the condition of the property. It truly is a shame with so many other opportunities for that type of investment in Iowa City today that this historic property could not be spared the fate of so many before it. Than~,.:YO~/~ ,. ~.~ ~'~Ir.~ri'~a Goldsberry October 21, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Commission, We would like to express strong support for the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. We live at 416 N Linn St, within the proposed district. We believe that the proposal reflects the city's commitment to historic preservation, and we welcome the positive effects it will have on the neighborhood and those who live here. Sincerely, ~arah Buss Paulson Henry Pau±son October 21, 2004 Planning and Zoning Commission Iowa City, Iowa Dear Planning and Zoning Commission: I am writing in reference to the proposal for the Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I own one of the "key properties" in the proposed district, located at 314 Fairchild. I strongly urge you to support this proposal. It will help enhance and preserve the historical integrity of the neighborhood. Please feel fxee to contact me if you have further questions. Thank you for consideration of this proposal. Sincerely, m 314 Fakchild Iowa City, Iowa 52245 / //c.~-~-/ J 319-358-6342 email: marcy-rosenbaum~uiowa.edu , ~<~ iT1 STALE OF I(3qA ) ) ss: JOmqSON COUNTY ) a Nota~ ~lic h a for sa~ ~mW ~ Slate, ~rs~ly a~ared ~ ~ - · - ' md~oexe~ted to m ~ to ~ ~e xdentx~l ~rs~ ~a m · - · ~ ......... J ~-~-,~ed~ed ~t they exerted t~ s~ as ~exr mlmta~ act ~d deed. ~'~ ~ ~ '.l ~ota~ ~lic Jean Daters 320 Park Road Iowa City, IA 52246 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission :~ CD Civic Center 7:' ~:. 410 E. Washington Street ~; Iowa City, IA 52240 :-~,. ,: ~ Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: ~-:- I own the prope~y at 319 East Davenpo~. I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Olbe~-Linn Historic District and want my prope~y excluded ~om the proposed local ~lbe~-Linn Historic District. Sincerely, Date cc: Iowa City Council STATEOF ~UOO~' ,COUNTYOF .~151C~3-~ ,ss: On this ~C) day of ~ ~ ~ , A.D. 20 0 M , before me, the undersigned, a Nota~ Public in and for said state, personally appeared ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and ac~owledged that he executed the same as his volunt~y act and deed. ~-~~ Numar 7~1571 I~1 ~24,2~7 I , Not~ Public ~ a~d for sa~d state. Tim Weitzel 523 Grant Street Iowa City, IA 52240-6225 October 20, 2004 Planning and Zoning Commission '~' 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 Member of the Planning and Zoning Commission: I hope you will not be easily fooled by the opposition of those who are against historic preservation in Iowa City. Their complaints tend to be the same for rental property inspection, building permits or any form of regulation. They challenge the regulation of private property. Such broad and negative characterizations creates an anti-preservation atmosphere that ultimately diminishes our community. Rather, I trust the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council will use their good judgment to weigh these typical complaints raised at any city control against the potential good that can come from historic district nomination. Studies from around the nation report on the success of implementing historic preservation in commercial as well as residential districts which state, in summary, that historic preservation helps a community through the following: · Increased employment through new jobs and businesses · Increasing tax revenue potential through enhanced property valuation · Diversifying the local economy with increased income from rehabilitation and tourism · Community building through partnerships between agencies, businesses, and government · Increased historic tourism revenues by enhancing the experience of visitors interested in history and who enjoy preserved streetscapes · Preserving local traditions and cultural heritage of neighborhoods as well as individually significant properties · Building community and civic pride by increased knowledge of local history and its significant relationship to regional and national history · Generating local investment in historic resources through rehabilitation and adaptive reuse. Just take a look at communities around Iowa and you will see commercial areas revitalized through preservation of the communities older commercial buildings including Mount Vernon, West Branch, and Grinnell. While Iowa lags behind other states in conducting rigorous statistical reports, it is likely not needed, given the large number of these reports from across the nation. Significant information and text gleaned from these reports include the following statistical summaries: · In Michigan, $1,000,000 in building rehabilitation creates 12 more jobs than does manufacturing $1,000,000 of cars. · In West Virginia, $1,000,000 in building rehabilitation creates 20 more jobs than mining $1,000,000 worth of coal. · In Oklahoma, $1,000,000 in building rehabilitation creates 29 more jobs than pumping $1,000,000 worth of oil. · In Oregon, $1,000,000 in building rehabilitation creates 22 more jobs than cutting $1,000,000 worth of timber. · When encouraged through a comprehensive strategy, historic preservation activity can have the same impact on the community as larger projects. Most preservation projects are on a modest scale, but their cumulative effect often is the same or exceeds that of larger projects. This is because historic preservation is not limited to those in the construction business or those located near specific projects, but instead spreads its benefits throughout the community. Preservation touches many areas of the local economy including finance, real estate, government, retail, and tourism. · Numerous studies across the country have shown that property values in designated National Register or local historic districts usually increase, For example, in a 1990-1994 study conducted by the Metropolitan Planning Commission of Knoxville, Tennessee, a comparison was made of house sale prices in three neighborhoods with varying historical designations. Conducted over a four year period, the study revealed that sale prices and historic designation had a direct correlation. In the neighborhood with both a local and a National Register designation sale prices increased 157% in the four year period. The National Register district sale prices increased 36%, and those in the neighborhood with no historical zoning or recognition increased by 20%. The Knoxville area as a whole showed only a 16% increase in sale prices during this same period. This data proves the value of the historic designation process and Ss a strong argument in favor of historic overlay districts. · Jobs created by historic preservation exceed those that new construction creates. In new construction, half of expenditures go for labor and half for materials. In a typical historic rehabilitation project, between 60 and 70 percent of the total cost goes toward labor, which has a very practical effect on the local economy. Labor---carpenters, electricians, plumbers, sheet metal workers, painters--is nearly always hired locally, and local wages are spent locally. · Historic preservation reuses what already exists, keeping materials out of landfills and utilizing already existing infrastructure. In contrast to new construction, most of the costs involved in rehab are labor costs. The ripple effect caused by quality rehabilitation raises the property values of all neighboring properties. A recent Rutgers University study calculated that the rehabilitation of historic buildings boosts the Missouri economy over $1 billion per year--not only from the jobs created in construction, but also from heritage tourism dollars. In addition to the information provided above the following reports discuss the potential for economic benefit due to historic preservation: Athens, Georgia: http://www.athensclarkecounty.com/-plannin.qdept/hpecon.html Virginia: http://www.mosbyheritagearea.or.q/ReportJreportl .html Colorado: http://www.coloradohistory-oahp.org/publications/pubs/1620.pdf Florida: http:llwww.law.ufl.edu/cqr/pdflhistoric report.pdf West Virginia: http://www.pawv.or.q/econimpact.htm Ibid. In closing, let me state my sincere hope that you will consider the matter very carefully before voting either for or against the North Side distinct. Again, I think if you examine the matter closely, you will find the complaints to be of a general nature--one of business owners against increased regulation--rather than any complaint against historic preservation in particular. Based on research, historic preservation increases property values over time and contribute to a community's economic development. Sincerely, Tim Weitzel Donald J. Anciaux Jr Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission City Council Members C) ~-~ City of lowa City ~-~ --n c'~ 410 East Washington St. ' ---q --~ Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Proposed Northside local historic districts Dear Council and Commission Members: As a property owner in one of the proposed Northside districts, I am writing to state my support of a Historic Preservation Overlay. I understand that this change in zoning will require application to the Historic Preservation Commission for review of exterior changes that require a building permit to ensure that the changes will be compatible with the historic character of the building and neighborhood. I view this regulation as a form of reasonable management of changes to the neighborhood which will not only stabilize propen'y values in the area but also preserve the character of the neighborhood. The Northside is the symbol of Iowa City's past, providing a sense of place for the community and adding to the quality of life here. The neighborhood provides a diversity of housing, commercial space and is home to a'broad demographic. In addition, there are other benefits to the community that come from establishing historic districts. For example, historic districts enhance the cultural and arts institutions in the area by attracting visitors seeking historic or cultural experience. A study released in 2002 identifying great college towns, included the presence of historic sites and districts as part of its index. (Iowa City ranked in the top ten of small cities in the epodunk'study) Currently, the Iowa City Council is considering the designation of a Cultural District that includes a large portion of the Northside. It seems natural that the Jefferson Street and other Historic Dislricts in this area will con~ibute to and enhance lowa City's Cultural District. I encourage you and your fellow Committee or Council members to support the Historic Preservation Overlay. Thank you. Yours truly, Address: 35Z, <, OA V~-~N?&/CY-- Iowa City, Iowa 52245 STAll: OF IO~tA ) ) sS: a. I'totary 15Jbl[c~for; said County and State, personally appeared o me known to be thc identical persOnS na~d in and who executed the within and foregoLng instrment and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa Marian Karr From: Candice Smith [CSMITH@icpl.org] Sent: Tuesday, October 19, 2004 5:49 PM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: Pending Historic Districts Longfellow Neighborhood Association Iowa City, Iowa October 19, 2004 Comraission Members, Planning and Zoning Commission and Council Members 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Esteemed public representatives and officials: The Lonqfellow Neighborhood Association would like you to know that it whole-h~artedly supports the ideals and concepts behind historic preservation for neighborhoods in our community. Our neighborhood has two historic districts and twice that in conservation districts. It is our collective opinion that historic preservation helps to maintain the attractiveness of our town and promote contentment of its people. In our view, historic preservation has been a win-win situation for everyone involved. An example of this is the Governor-Lucas Conservation District. This district was somewhat contentious when it came before the City Government for approval; the Council passed it anyway, and today more people are fixing up their houses and building new and appropriately designed housing, especially along Governor Street. Before this change in the zoning and application of guidelines to this area, the housing appeared to be in a rapid state of decline and many residents were fearful it would spread. To us, the results are clear and apparent. While that example is along just one street, the same could be said for pretty much the entire neighborhood. At one point we had to contend with rats and vacant houses; now our neighborhood remains in high demand. We are also in the process of completing historic markers for the whole neighborhood, including the AME Church, a Civil War training camp, the home of the famous artist, Grant Wood, and the old baseball diamond where the Iowa City Gold Sox played. We can not tell you enough about how this has united our small part of the greater community, and the effects must be beneficial to everyone in Iowa City. We feel you will find parallels in each of the historic districts under consideration, in terms of attractive buildings, significant people, and a history worth preserving. Please consider voting in favor of all the pending historic districts. Sincerely, Candice Smith and Adam Witte, Co-Secretaries Please forward this to the Planning and Zoning Commission members. William C. Leupold 3084 130th Street Spidt Lake, Iowa 51360 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Sirs/Madam: We, Julia and William Leupold, do no_.lt want our property at 318 North Gilbert included in the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historical District. In fact, we are opposed in general to the establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Sincerely, //Julia E. Leupold / William C. Leupold Copy to: Iowa City Council STATE OF IOWA : : SS. DICKINSON COUNTY : On this 18a day of October, 2004, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said county and state, personally appeared Julia E. Leupold and William C. Leupold, to me known to be the identical persons named herein and who acknowledged that they executed the foregoing as their voluntary act and deed. /~ October 18, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Commission: My husband and I write in support of the proposed Gilbert-l.inn Historic District. Our property is at 418 N. Gilbert St., within the proposed district. We are glad to be included in the district and welcome its positive effects on preserving the neighborhood now and for later generations. We have been working on preserving the architectural/historic integrity of our home for several years now and we hope to continue these improvements. Sincerely, Carolyn and Beniamin Barrientes dCc: Iowa City Council Michael Maharry, Chair, Historic Preservation Commission 17 October 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Commission: We write in support of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Our property is at 311 N. Linn Street, within the proposed district. It is important to us to maintain the integrity and the diversity of the neighborhood. Sincerely, Elsie Kuhn, Clerk on behalf of the Iowa City Monthly Meeting of Friends (Conservative) v//cc: Iowa City Council cc: Michael Maharry, Chair, Historic Preservation Commission James Pohl c/o Keystone Property Management 535 South$~e Avenue Iowa City, IA 52240 ;iowa City Planmng and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City. IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the property at 230 E, Fairchild Street, I am opposed to the e,~blishment of the proposed Gilbert.Linn His~ric District and wfmt my property excluded from the proposed local Gilben-Linn Historic Distri~, ~c: Iowa City Council sT^ oF cot rr¥ ov ,ss: unO. signed, ~ ~o~blie in and for sdd ~te, p~n~y ~a~ ~, ~t ,tome~o~to~t~p~son~medinandwho exerted ~e fore.lng instmm~L a~ ac~wledged volu~ act ~d d~d, ~~ , N~a~ Public in and for ~id state. / ] JORGE CERDA ~ Notary Public, State 0f Illino~s M Commission Expires Jan g, 2007 _~ October 15, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 315 E. Davenport St., Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I wish to have my property excluded fi.om consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. ly ~ -=- Sincere, ,~,_~ '::: .C).~ Joel Schintler .~: '~ 5:~ '~: 3 ~co ~--~ P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. ~3. vo STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF JOHNSON, ss: On this i ~ day of ~ ~ ,A.D. 2004, befo~ m~, thg,unlder~ed, a Notary Public in and for said state, personally appeared ~ ~0_,D_i~q ~¢' , to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. KELLY J. HEBL I IComm~ton Numar 726~011 Notary Public in and for said state. October 15, 2004 Donald l'. Anciaux Jr Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: R. onalds (Brown Street Extension) and Gilbert-Linn Proposed Northside local historic districts Dear Planning and Zoning Commission Members: As a property owner in the Ronalds proposed Northside district, I am writing to state my support of a Historic Preservation Overlay or local historic district for this area. I understand that this change in zoning will require application to the Historic Preservation Commission for review of exterior changes that require a building permit to ensure that the changes will be compatible with the historic character of the building and neighborhood. I view this regulation as a form of reasonable management of changes to the neighborhood which will not only stabilize property values in the area but also preserve the character of the neighborhood. I have taken considerable time to talk with my neighbors about the OPH and have been pleased to fred that there is overwhelming support for the designation. In fact, I encountered some concern that the Gilbert- Linn district would not be completed. The Gilbert-Linn district is at the center of the Northside and as such really is the symbol of Iowa City's past, providing a sense of place for the community and adding to the quality of life here. While there has been an effort on the part of a number of property owners to improve and restore the neighborhood, there still remains a core group of property owners who resist cooperating with the community to insure that the Northside continues to be a vibrant, mixed use neighborhood. I am asking that the commission take into consideration the benefits and good that a historic district will provide for the future of Iowa City. For example, historic districts enhance the cultural and arts institutions in the area by attracting visitors seeking historic or cultural experience. A study released in 2002 identifying great college towns, included the presence of historic sites and districts as part of its index. (Iowa City ranked in the top ten of small cities in the epodunk study) Currently, the Iowa City Council is considering the designation of a Cultural District that includes a large portion of the Northside. It seems natural that the Gilbert-Linn and other Historic Districts in this area will contribute to and enhance Iowa City's Cultural District. I encourage you and your fellow Committee or Council members to support the Historic Preservation Overlay for both Ronalds and Gilbert-Linn... Thank you. Yours truly, ~ Helen Burford ~ 604 Ronalds Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 loseph Dobrian c/o Keystone pr~>perty Mana$~ment 533 $outhSate Avenue Iowa City, IA. 52240 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic C,nter 410 15. Washington Street Iowa City. IA 52240 D,ar Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the property at 217 E. Davenport Street. I am opposed to the establishmem of'the proposed Oilbert-Linn Historic District and wsra my property excluded from the proposed local Oilbert-Linn Historic Distfiot. Sincerely, Joseph Dobrian/. Iowa City Council STATE OF ,/~/a--~f~/' ,COUNTYOF /~ ...... ss: ~i~ned, a N~ ~blic in ~d fOr s~d s~t~, p~sonally app~ ~*~ ~ rt'~ , m me ~wn to be ~e p~mn ~od in and who ex, out~ ~e foregoing in~mmen~ ~d ~knowl~dged that he ~ut,d the same as his volubly a~ and STEVEN E. HILLER Nota~ Public, · State of New York No. 01HI4~7658 Qualifl~ in New York CounW Term Expires Novem~r 30, 2005 October 12, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 628 N. Linn St., Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I wish to have my property excluded t~om consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Scott Ramspott, as partner ofMcSpot, L.L.C. P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF JOHNSON, ss: . On this I ~-day of ~c~Jg~V~ ,A.D. 2004, .befo/re me~3~e ~d~e.r~si_g_,ne~d,~ Notary P~mand for said state, personally appeared ~.4~/ 'l'~Q'~tl ~and' to me known to be the person named in and who executed the mregomg instrument, an acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. ..~. KELLY J. HEBL [ October 12, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 612 N Linn St., Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I wish to have my property excluded fxom consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Matthew D. Lepic < ~' P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. ~ r. - ca ;-- f. ds STATE OF IOWA, COUNTY OF JOHNSON, ss: On this//~ day of C/(~. ,-~J'e~ -,A.D. 2004, be,fo, re me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and f~r said state, personally appearedfi/~C~,-J /9. "/~e~ t'C , to me kno~vn to be ~he person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. Notary Public in and for said state. October 11, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 ' To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 328 Fairchild St., Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I wish to have mY property excluded from consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, :--~_ C~., c~ C) .:: :: ..._2' IX.) P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. co STATE OF IOWA, CO. LIN,T¥ OF JOHNSON, ss: On this I/ day of l.~,..t0~)f~F ,A.D. 2004, bef?re ~e,_rl~.e ~u~dersigned, a Notary Public in and for said ~tate, personally appeared ./d-fit L)iI~ , to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. Notary Public in and for said state. October 11, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 519 N. Gilbert St., Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I wish to have my property excluded fi:om consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Jhm~. Brermeman P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. STATE OF. IOWA, COI~N~Y OF JOHNSON, ss: On this I[ day of (~)~ '~) ~.~¢ ,A.D. 2004, before me, the mldersigned, a Notary Public in and for said state, personally appeared ,_]0./q~ff> ~:~f~ ~tJ~$~2~//\ , to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. Notary Public in and for said state. STATE OP ~O~A ) ) sS: JO~ ~ ) ~n tiffs ~ day of t)cT~2. ', . ~.~ , ~fore m, ~e ~d~rsip~d, a ~ ~lic :~ nd for said ~ ~ S~te, ~rso~ly a~a~d to m-~ to ~ ~e iddnti~l ~rs~ ~ ~ ~ ~o exe~t~ ~ ~ ~d forego~ ~tmnt ~ ac~lMg~ ~t ~ey ex.tM ~ s~ as ~eir ~l~ta~ act ~d deed. ,lSONDRAE FORT ICommission Number ~5979~ [ [ My Commission Expires I . [ .$. 7~& 0ct.7,04 To: Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Re: Gilbert-Linn Historic District I am opposed to the establishment of the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I would like my property excluded from this plan. The address of my property is 309 E. Fairchild St. Thank You Shirley Harman-Harrison Please send copy to Iowa City Council CD Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 My family is greatly concerned regarding the proposed Historic District classification for our property located at 528 North Gilbert Street. We do NOT wish to see this change made in our neighborhood. Please take into consideration our strong opposition to the proposed new Historic District zoning and our desire to have our property excluded. Thank you, ~_~ ~~:~ ~~ Bruce and Lisa Brechtel 155 Juniper Court North Liberty, IA 52317-9399 319 626 3240 ..... i-il ST^TI~ OF IOWA ) ) sS: a No~ ~lic in~d for ~a~d ~W ~ S~te, ~r~o~l7 a~ared to m ~ to ~ ~e idential ~rsm ~ h ~ ~o exerted ~ ~ ~d forego~g ~t~nt ~d ac~ledged ~t ~ey exemt~ ~ s~ as ~eir volmta~ act ~d deed. ~1 Commission Number z~ o~ ~1 ~ta~ ~lic ~ ~d for ~ S~te of I~ KEYSTONE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO. MEMORANDUM TO: Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 FROM: Eugene Fisher DATE: October '1, 2004 RE: Gilbert and Linn St. Proposed Historic District I own the properties located at: 328 and 330 N.' Linn Street, 325 N. Gilbert Street, and 420 N. Gilbert Street. I am opposed to the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District and I want my properties removed from the list. Sincerely, file: fis ~;~ :;~' NolaMI Seal- IOWA Cc: Iowa City Council My~ Expires De~ 26, 2006 533 SOUTHGATE AVENUE * IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240 * 319-338-6288 MEARDON, SUEPPEL ~ DOWNER P.L.C. LAWYERS ROBERT N. DOWNER TELEPHONE: (3 I ~) 338-9222 UAMES D. M¢CARRAGHER 122 SOUTH LINN STREET FAX: (3 I 9) 338-7250 HARK T. HAHER THOMAS D. HOBARt IOWA C~Y, IOWA 52240 - 1830 WWW. MEarDONLAW.COM MARGARET T. LAINSON DOUGLAS D. RUPPERT 33MOTHY J. KRUMM WILLIAM L. MEArDON WILLIAM U. SUEPPEL ( I 9 I 9- 1997) CHARLES A. MEARDON DENNIS J. MrYCHELL OF COUNSEl: DAVID U. BRIGHT WllllaH f. SUEPPE1 PETER J. GARDNER JEAN BAF~LEY ANNE E. DANIELS October 6, 2004 Michael Maharry, Chairman and Members of the Historic Preservation Commission 410 E. Washington St. ' Iowa City, IA 52240 Re: H & G Parmership: 204 East Davenport St., 420-22 N. Linn Street Dear Chairman Maharry and Members of the Commission: We are adamantly opposed to the proposed Historical Preservation Overlay Zone which is the subject of your heating tomorrow night. H&G, an Iowa General Partnership By: ~//~~~~~ ///f~-Iamer, P~er¥ t '? ~'-"'""'----~ STATE OF IOWA SS: JOHNSON COUNTY On this 6th day of October, 2004, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said State, personally appeared Mark T. Hamer, to me known to be the person named in and who executed the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his voluntary act and deed. Not~(ffPublic in and for said State Copy to: t ,.¢~.[ CYNTHIAA. USHER City Council Ig l~-I commission Number 1 $2255 ~' ~ 'l My Commission Expires I-mr-I ?-/5-~9 ,'7 I Michael E. Hodge 711 S. Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52240 (319) 354-2233 October 6, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Commission Members: As the property owner of 203 N Linn Street and 222 E Market Street in Iowa City, I would like to inform you that I am opposed to the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Please exclude my property from this proposed district. Please note my opposition in your records in advance of the public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Commission on October 7. Sincerely, · ShelterHouse © ____] Community Shelter & Transition Services ,. October 6, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission - ' ~ .. Civic Center 410 East Washin~on Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: OlbemLinn Historic Distri~ Commissioners: The Shelter House at 331 No~h Olben Str~ is located ~thin the proposed local OlbemLi~ Historic Di~fi~. ~e board of dire~ors h~ vot~ to op~se having the Shelter Hou~ includ~ in either the local OlbemLinn Historic District or the National Register of Historic Pla~s. Please exclude the Shelter Hou~ ~om this district. Tha~ you for your consideration. Resp~lly sub~, Dorothy M. Person President, Shelter House Board Copy: Iowa City c0unci,/' STATE OF IOWA ) ) SS: JO~qSON COUNTY ) '~ On this [,,'lPc~ day of ~o~z~z_~_~ , ~C~Dc~ , before me, ~he mdersi~ed, a ~ota~ ~blic in ~d for said-ComW ~d State, persomlly appearea to me ~ ~o be the identical perso~ ~ed ~ ~d ~o exerted ~he ~h~ ~d forego~g ~st~nt ~d ac~owledged t~t they exerted t~ s~ as their volmtaw act ~d deed. t o'~J Commiss on Number 221819J j?~J My Co~mis~ion Expires / Nota~ ~bllc ~ ~ ~o~ the State o~ Iows '}RY PALMBERG ,, 18 WILSON ST IOWA CITY, IA 52240 October 6, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Gilbert - Linn Historic District Dear commission: We, the owners of the property at 322 N. Linn Street, would like our property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert - Linn Historic District and are opposed to the establishment of the proposed local Gilbert - Linn Historic District. While we appreciate well-crafted historic homes as much as anyone, and agree with the historic preservation commission that some of these homes have architectural merit, we can not support a proposal that compromises the freedom of private property owners. Respectfully submitted, Mary~almberg /,') Scott COUNTY OF JOHNSON Copy: City Council Subscribed and sworn to before me by onthis t~ il'ay of 'Dc'7-t>~q~z , ~ -~ SOND~E FORT I ~'~]Commlssion Number 1597911 '.~'l My Commission Expires I Notary Public in and for Iowa '.tlCHOLE SLABACH .) MARBURY LANE BARRINGTON, IL 60010 RMB INVESTM~,N~S, LLC Iowa City Councel Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern; I am writing in regards to the Proposition to give the Gilbert-Linn Historic District local control to the Iowa City Historic Preservation Commission. The properties which I own, 411 lq. Linn Street and 228 Church Street, are among the properties nominated. I am opposed to having my properties placed on the local Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as well as the National Registry of Historic Places. To date, I have not had the case for making this change explained to me. I believe the Gilbert-Linn District has managed very well without the Commission's involvement. By far, most owners are very proud of their houses and maintain them to a higher standard than most. This proposition is very unexpected, after the idea of having a local registry was minimized at the City Council's National Registry meeting on August 10. If you have any questions regarding my stance on the matter you can contact me at (319)341-9987. Thank-you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, ~L~~ ~ Nichole Slabach ~ Owner/Property Manager RMB Investments, LLC Cc: Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission 5T^~ oF I0~A ) JO~qSO~ CO~qT~ ) to~ ~ tobe ~ .......... forego~g hst~nt aa ac~ieagea ~ act ~d deed. I~tlComm ssio~Number 1597911 [:'~'1 My Com,,,ission ~ims / for ~e State Iowa City Planning and Zoning Greg Allen 301-303 Fairchild Copy to Council My property is in the proposed Gilbert Linn Historic District. I am opposed to having my property in this district and I am opposed to The Historic district in General. The last two years have shown that the Historic department likes to take advantage of there newfound power. There rulings are both arbitrary and discriminatory. Many homeowners are treated unfairly. The Historic dept. should not be politically motivated. You must also realize that if 30 some percent of the people oppose a Historic district. That does not mean the rest are for it! On the contrary the margin Is about 3 to 1 AGAINST. The rest are uncommitted either way. Thank you for your time. STATE OF IOWA ) ) SS: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this ~> ¢/1 day of C)cWo55E~ , ~¢z~ , before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, pefsonally appeared to me knb~n to be the identical persons named in and who executed the within and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. 30NDEAE FORT .mission Number 159791 ~,~y Comrnlssion Expires ~v-e~, Nota~ ~blic in ~d for the State of Iowa PROTEST OF REZONING TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL IOWA CITY, IOWA We, the undersigned, being the owners of twenty percent or more of the area of the property included in the proposed zoning change, or the owners of twenty percent or more of the property which is located within two hundred feet of the extedor boundaries of the property for which the zoning change is proposed, do hereby protest the rezonlng of the following property: This petition Is signed and acknowledged by each of us with the Intention that such rezonlng shall not become effective except by the favorable vote of at least three-fourths of all the members of the council, all in accordance with §414.5 of the Code of Iowa. STATE OF IOWA ) ) SS: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this '7 day of ~, 20 ~gF, before me, the un<~rslgned, a Not,aP/Public in and for said County and State, personally appeared Z~.~,,~.~ ~x ~ ~t~/~ r"P and to me known to be the Identical pemons named in and who exec~ed the ~hin and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their volunt~ a~ and deed. ~ ~_ I KELLIE K. ~LE ~ I~ ~ Corem ssion Number 2218~ 9I ~?~ Nota~ Public In and for the State of Iowa By: Owner(s) of Property Address STATE OF IOWA ) ) ss: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this day of ,20 , before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in'and for said County and State, personally appeared and to me known to be the identical persons named in and who executed the within and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed, Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa Frank Person 321 E. Davenport Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission [ Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the property at 321 E. Davenport Street. I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I want my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Sincerely, Frank Person Copy ~o.: IOWA CITY COUNCIL i PROTEST OF REZONING 20[~t~ 0[:'l- -7 Pt'[ 3:50 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL ~OWA Ch'Y, ~OWA iOWA ,,';[ i-1 tO'WA We, the undersigned, being the owners of twenty percent or more of the area of the property included in the proposed zoning change, or the owners of twenty percent or more of the property which is located within two hundred feet of the extedor boundaries of the property for which the zoning change Is proposed, do hereby protest the rezonlng of the following property: Thi, petition ia ~lgned and ecknowlodged by each of us with the Intention that such rezoning sh,II not become effecthte ex,pt by the ~a¥orable vote of et le~t thro~-fourths of all the mom~om o! the ~ouncll. all In accordance with §41a.$ o! the Code of Iowa. Owner(s) of PCpedy Address STATE OF IOWA ) ) ss: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this '7' day of ~, 20 ~?~, befor.e me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, personally appearea ~¢~k. C~. ~.~-$~. and to me known to be the Identical persons named in and who executed the w~thin and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. [~k~z¢. SONDRAE FORT '1 [~ ~,~¢ Commission Number t59791~ I'.~.-* My Commission F. xCre$ / ~ ~ i"~-I _2 ~ ~ ~ ac, / Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa By: Owner(s) of Property Address .STATE OF IOWA ) ) ss: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this day of ,20 , before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public in and for said County and State, personally appeared and to me known to be the identical persons named .in and who executed the within and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. Notary Public in and for the State of Iowa Dwight Dobberstein 326 North Linn St. Iowa City, Iowa 52245 October 5, 2004 Iowa City planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 East Washington Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Gilbert-Linn Historic District Commissi0ners: I am opposed to the proposed local Gilbert-Lima Historic District. 16ncourage you to vote against the establishment of this district. I'would like my properties excluded from this proposed district and any future historic districts. I am also opposed to the district being placed on the National Register of Historic Places. I have written a letter to the Historic Restoration Commission statingmy objection. I live at the above address and I also own homes at 318 North Lima St. and 311 Davenport St. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Copy: Iowa City Council STA~ O~ I09/A ) ~c~ ) to ~ h~o ~ 2e identi~l ~rs~ ~ ~ ~ ~o ex~ ~.~m ~ act ~d deed, ~ ~lic ~ ~d for ~e S~te of I~ Sent B~: ; 3605713385; 0ct-19-04 ~I:03AM; Page 1/2 Peter Ammentorp 2709 NE 163r~ St. Ridgefield, WA 98642 To: Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission C3 CC: Iowa City Council, Mayor Lehman Date: October 5, 2004 ~":,-:: -- ,,, Subject: Opposition to the Gilbcrt.-Linn Street. Historic Preservation To Whom It May Concern: I received a letter on Monday, October 4~, 2004 dated September 27~, 2004 notify me oftheoutconm of the Historic Preservation Commission's public hearing to recommend the establishment of Oilbert-Limt Street Historic District to the Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission. The Historic Preservation Commission's meeting was on Septembex 9~', 2004. Why did it take until September 27~, 2004 to notify the homeowners? Was it because the Historic Preservation Commission designed it that w~y knowing that would leave little time fi~r any opposition to respond? The next meeting was October 7a', 2004 leaving only 10 days to respond to the letter, but the Historic preservation Commission withheld the results for 15 days. Wher~ is the due process? This recks ora small group trying to impose their "altruistic" hidden agenda on a larger number o£homeowners who do not want this. How many times is the Historic Preservation Commission going to try and impose their will and agenda on tax paying property owners that are opposexl to this Historic District? They have me~ with resistance from business owners and homeowners and have been told emphatically that the property owners do not want this, Still the Historic Preservation Commission continues to work several angles. This recommendation was strongly opposed back in Au/~q~st, The Commission comes back now and tries to hammer this through again even before the State of Iowa has rulexl on the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. This is completely unprcx:cdcntcd, If you check the Iowa City Records, the State of Iowa has always ruled beforethe City of Iowa City, Why the sudden change in protocol? The rea.~on is if this current att~rapt fails, then the homeowners have to fight the State of Iowa. Where does this process end? It doesn't and Historic Preservation Commission will not stop umil they get their agenda passed regardless of what the general public wants. They are counting on public apathy, absent~= ownerslfip and playing every possible angle to get this passed. I currently own four properties in lewa City. They are at 304 Davenport St,, 308 Davenport St., 313 N. Linn St., and 319 N. Linn St. These properties are in the middle of thc proposed district. I want my properties excluded from the proposed Gilbert-Lirm Historic District. If it is so important for a small number of people to have their properties listed, then have them sign their properties up and submit those to the State of Iowa for review and leave the rest of the properties out of it. The reasons the Historic Preserwtion Commission won't do this is th~ they do not have complete control over entire neighborhoods and they know they would not get that many properly owners to sign up. There is little to no benefit for the hom~wners to do this. The Historic Preservation Commission n~eds to start serving the public and stop trying to control it. The questions the Mayo~' and the rest of the Iowa City Council should be asking themselves is "How would you f~l if someone tried to impose their regulations multiple times upon your home that you did not want? Would you allow this to h~ppen to your own homes if you did not want it.? I am confident the answer would be NO! If that is the case, you must reject the establishment of the Oilbert-Linn Street Historic District. Resl~ectfiilly~/ Peter 1. Ammentorp / Sent B~: ; 3605713385; 0ct-19-04 tl:03AM; page 2/2 STATE OF WASHINGTON ) County of Clark ) I certify that I know or have satisfactory evidence that Peter J. Ammentorp is the person who appeared b~fore me, and said person acknowledged that he signed this instrument and acknowledged it to be his free and voluntary ag for the uses and pm-po~es mentioned in the instrument. t~ day of October, 2004. DATED this ] 4~ 42- Town & Campus Apts. 1100 Arthur St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Phone: (319) 337-2496 Fax: (319) 341-8815 10/04/04 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: I am taking time to send you this l~ter expressing my OPPOSITION to having my property, located al 507 N. Linn St., included as part of the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I believe this proposal would place unnecessary financial burdens on property owners. I want my property located at 507 N. Linn St. EXCLUDED form the proposal. Mike Cooper Owner Please submit a copy of this letter to the Iowa City Council John and Kayla Cress 4506 Dryden Ct. Iowa City, IA 52245 Ph. 319-354-5103 October 4, 2004 City of Iowa City - Historic Preservation Co .mmission 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 RE: proposed Gilbert/Linn St. historic district To whom it may concern, We own the property at 624 N. Linn St. that is in the proposed historic district. We are opposed to the rezoning of the district, in that we do not want restrictions put on our property, and our desired use of the property, or its exterior lo0k. Thank you. Sincerely, Jo ~ ~ _~ Copy to City Council STATE OF IOWA .) ) SS: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this ~-/-/~ day of ~~r~ , ~0o~ , before me, the undersigned, a Notary;. Public in. Amd for said County and State, personally appeared and to me kno¢~ to be the identical persons na~d in and who executed the within and foregoing instrument and acknowledged that they executed the same as their voluntary act and deed. F ,~ ~ I KELLiE K. TU'FrLE ~ Nota~ ~blic ~ ~d for the State of Iowa 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. 1 encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Address: ~1~ ~ ~KEV ~r City: ~0~8 CITy State: ~ Zip: '~E & LAKE LC 403 S JOHNSON IOWA CITY, IOWA 52240 ~A~ OF I~ ) ..... . ~ ~is ~ ~y o c%~ , . · 0 ~, ~fore me, the ~dersi~ed, a ~o~ ~lic in ~d for said ~ ~ S~te,' ~rsomlly a~ared " to m ~ to M ~e idential ~rs~ ~ ~ ad ~o exerted t~ ~ ~d forego~g ~tmnt ~d ac~l~ged ~t they exe~t~ tM s~ as ~eir volmta~ act ~d deed. ~,.~ iCNDRAE FORT t~¢~ ~l Commission Number ~S979~I ~'~'[ My Commission Expires ~otaw ~lic ~ ~d for ~e s~te of John Alberhasky 1150 Jefferson Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 Iowa Cit7 Planning and Zoning Commission o~ ' ~-- Civic Center --<~ -o 410 E. Washington Street ~. ~ Iowa City, IA 52240 ~n Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and would like my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I own the property at 324 N. Gilbert Street. Sincerely, John Alberhasky STATE OF '-~tOO~ , COUNTY OF ~::~Y~we61~t~ ,ss: Onthis I~ ,dayof ~~_. ,-7,A.D..~20O_~' before me, the undersigned, a Nola-7 Public in aha ~or said f O / t2l/ 0{,~ state, personally appeared ~C~la~ to me known to be the person named in and who eXeCutex{ Date the foregoing instrument, and acknowledged that he executed the same as his volunta~ act and deed. cc: Iowa City Council I 'fO?eE"tV",tmT., h 1 -.-- ~4, ~oo? J , Notary Public h~ and for said state. 401 E Fairchild Iowa City, IA 52245 October 10, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Sir or Madam: I would like my property, 402 E Fairchild, excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I am also opposed in general to the establishment of the local Gilbert- Linn Historic District. If you have any questions in regards to this matter, please call 563-650-7224. Sincerely, Copy to: Iowa City Council Waltraud Maierhofer cD 426 N. Gilbert Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, lA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and would like my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Lirm Historic District. I own the property at 426 N. Gilbert Street. Sincerely, Waltraud Maierhofer Date Onthis ~ dayof ~~. ~,~D. 20O~, ~fore me, cc: I0wa City Council s~te, ~sonally app~ed m me knom to be the person named in and who execut~ · e foregoi~ in~mmeng ~d ae~owlMged thane exeCUt~ the mine as ~olun~ aa ~d d~. I~1 Fl"l ~ ~_~* / Notam Public in ~d for smd state. October 1, 2004 Iowa City Planning & Zoning Commission 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, Iowa 52244 Attention: I want my property at 223 East Davenport Strcct, F. XCLUDED from the proposed local Gilbert - Linn Historic DistricL I am OPPOSED IN GF. NFRAL to the establishment of the local Gilbert- Limn Historic District. 701 Miller Ave. Iowa City, Iowa 52244 - 1306 Copy to: Iowa City, Iowa - City Council STATE OF IOWA ) ] SS: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this --'~-~t day of (~e-~-~x~r'' , ~c/ , before me, the mdersi~ed, a Notaw ~lic in ad for said ~mW ~d State,. ~so~lly appeared to m h~ to be ~e identical perso~ ~ed ~ ~d ~o exerted the witffm ~d forego~g ~stmnt ~d ac~owledged that they exerted t~ sm as their volmtaw act ~d deed. [,¢~,. I KELLIE K. TUmE [ ~ ~] Commission Numb~ 221819I '~'l MyCo~mi~sion~res I ~ I &/~/~ I Nota~ ~blic ~ ~d for S of Iowa lC Rental LC John Nelson 741 Oakland Ave. Iowa City, IA 52240 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and would like my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I own the property at 222 E. Davenport. sin ly, o John2qelson Date " Copy to Iowa City Council sr^~ oF io~ ) ) ss: a No~__~i_~ublic 'i~_/md ,for said County and State, ~-~-onall¥ appeared to ne kn6~n to be the identical person~ named in and ~ho executed the ~ithin and foregoing instrt~ent and acknowledged that they executed the sam as their volmtary act and deed. 11~- Commission Number 221819] I' .~ '1 My Cpfnm_j~sion Expires I . I_~__[ ~ ~[ 0% I Notary Public in ~nd for the State of Greg Hassman 1635 Larch Avenue -" Washington, lA 52353 ~ -- Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the property at 533 N. Linn Street. I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I want myproperty excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Sincerely, Greg Hassman _ ~/~ , STATE OF- J.O ~6SO,.~ , COUNTY OF ~,Okr~ ,~x ,ss: ~is...~... ~y of ~)~ , A.D. 200q, ~fo~ me, me ~do~i~ a N~ Pubic ~ ~ for s~d m, ~r~lly appm~ ~r ~ ~ ~ ~, W mo ~o~ W ~ ~o pomon ~m~ ~ ~d ~o cc: Iowa City Council ~e~o for~o~g ~e~ ~d ac~owl~g~ ~ he ex~ ~e ~e ~ ~ 7~1671 ~ ~N~ P~c ~ ~d for ~d ~. October 1,2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington St. iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Commission members: We have been noitifled of a public discussion with regard to including properties on Gilbert Street and Linn Street to be included in proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. We want to go on record as being opposed to our property located at 522 N. Gilbed St. being included in the proposal. Therefore, please have our property excluded from the proposed Historic District. Please note our opposition in your records in advance of the public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Commission on October 7th. Sincerely, Tim D. Finer CC: City Council STA~ OF IO~ ) ) sS: JC~SON OOUt~ ) d~¥ of ~C~o~E~ , ~, before me, the ~ersi~ed, ~is ~ - ' 1 a ~red ~, ~;n e 'c _ ~j '- ~ ~o exerted t~ ~d forego~g ~t~nt ~d ac~t~gea ~¢ u,=~ ........... act ~ de~.. SONO~E FORT . I~1CommJss,on Number 159791 I'~'[ My Commission Expires ~ta~ ~i~C ' ~0~ ~e 5~te o( I~ Miller & Hawkins 673 Westwinds Dr. Iowa City, IA 52246 September 30, 2004 ~,< '~ Iowa City Planning & Zompg Co~ission Civic Center 410 E Washin~on Iowa City, IA 52240 Re: Gilben-Li~ Historic District I m a pa~ner in the Miller & Haw~ns Pa~ners~p that owns the prope~y located at 320 F~rchild St. I wish to voice my concern relating to the proposed Olbe~-Li~ ~stofic District. It is not in the best interest of prope~y owners that are located in this district. As owner of the propeay at 320 Fairchild St., I wish to inform you that I m opposed to t~s locfl proposal. I want our propeay excluded from the proposed local Olbe~-Li~ Historic District. Th~k you for your consideration. Miller & Hawkins Pa~nership Cc: Iowa City Council STATE OF IO~A ) ) s~: a Rot~r~ hib~for, said'Co[at'/iud State, perSoe, all¥ a~d ~ to lae known to be the identxcal persons na~d in and ~ executed the ~ithin and foregoing instru~nt and acknowledged t~t they executed the sams as their voluntary act and deed, Iqotar'/ Public in a~xi for tho State of Iowa September 29, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 To Whom It May Concern: As the owner of the property located at 320 E. Davenport Street, Iowa City, IA, I hereby oppose the proposed establishment of the local Gilbert-Lhm Historic District and I wish to have my property excluded from consideration. Thank you for your attention to this matter. ~~ ~ Sincerely, 9/alter Kopsa P.S. Please send a copy to the Iowa City Council. b'rATE OF IrmA ) a Not&r/l~bliE~it for said Co,mt), and ~~ to m ~ ~ ~ ~e identi~l ~rs~ rm~ ~ ~ ~o ~t~ forego~ ~t~nt ~ a~l~g~ ~t ~ey exemt~ ~ s~ as ~cir mlm~ act ~d deed, [~l ~]~ J ~ ~lic ~ ~ for ~ S~te ot I~ James B. and Becky J. Buxton 1811 Muscatine Avenue Iowa City, Iowa 52240-6414 (319) 354-7262 September 29, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Commission Members: As the property owners of 403 North Linn Street and 225 Church Street in Iowa City, we want to go on record as being opposed to the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. As such we want to have our two properties excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Please note our opposition/request in your records in advance of the public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Commission on October 7th. Sincerely, James B. Buxto~ Jbb Cc: City Council STATE OF IOWA ) ] SS: JOHNSON COUNTY ) On this Z/~ day of (~C~[z~ ~ , ~oo~Z, before me, the ~dersi~ed, a Notau hblic in ~d for said Comu ~d State,~ers0nally appeared o ~ ~ t~ oe the identical persons ~ed ~ ~d ~o exerted the with~ ~d [ego~ ~stmnt ~d ac~owledged that they exerted t~ s~ as their volmtau act ~a aeea. Nota~-~b~ic ~ fo~ the State of Io~a Renetta Webster 330 N. Gilbert Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the properties at 330 N. Gilbert Street and 402 E. DaVenport Street. I am .opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I want my properties excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Sincerely, Renetta Webster Date Copy to Iowa City COuncil SIATI~ OF IOWA ] sS: ,x~SC~ Ccx.e~ ] . Harry Hinckley 886 Park Place Iowa City, Iowa 52246 (319) 338-6025 September 29, 2004 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Commission Civic Center 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Dear Commission Members: As the property owner of 326 East Fairchild Street in Iowa City, I want to go on record as being opposed to the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. As such I want to have my property excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Please note my opposition/request in your records in advance of the public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Commission on October 7th. Sincerely, Harry//nc. ~ Cc: City Council STATE OF ~OWA ) ) sS: a No~ ~lic ~ ~d fqr said to ~ ~ ~o ~ ~e iden~l ~rs~ ~rego~g ~t~nt ~d sc~l~ged act ~d de~. j.J SONDRAE FORT ~-~ Commission Number 159791 '~'1 My~ommission Expires Thomas Kane 420 Ronalds Street Iowa City, IA 52245 Iowa City Planning and Zoning Comm/ssion Civ/c Center 410 E. Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Planning & Zoning Commissioners: I own the properties at 615 N. Lirm Street and 620 N. Linn Street. I am opposed to the establishment of the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District and I want my properties excluded from the proposed local Gilbert-Linn Historic District. Sincerely,~ Thomas Kane Date Copy to Iowa City Council a NoUrg~ Pablfc in ~mt ,for said Co. mty ~ State,-"~rmll¥ appeared to ~e known to be the ~dent~cal persor~ na~m m ~na ~ao executed t~ m foregoing in~tn~eat and acknowledged that they executed t~e sine as their voluntary act and deed. Notary' Public /m and for the State of Iowa September ~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: 1 am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Name: ^ddress: City: ~ State: September ~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of lowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly,~/~//~~ Name: ~o~1~0~ ~C:~ I bc~(~ Address: 7~ 0 N' ~0~ ~( City: ~¢~61r~ State: ~ Zip: September ~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members ~.~ ~ City of Iowa City ~ © ~ 410 East Washington Street :~ -~'; r',,> :~ Iowa City, Iowa 52240 ~ C-) -- I Re: Northside Historic Districts ~ 5;< ~ Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa CJ, ty. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of lowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Name: Address: ~('~ City: ~d~_ State: September~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of lowa City. t encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Address: /7/[3 /x,~, ~(/]gex~ 5.]. City: ~-F'a % State: ~ Zip: September t~ 2004 Michael Mahan'y Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. 1 encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, 628 N Jolmson St Address: l_ owaCltv, IA 52245-2005 City: State: Zip: C) 4. ~ , .-< r .... iT1 ::~ ~,j September ~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members CiW of Iowa City 410 East Washin~on S~eet Iowa Ci~, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Name: ~/q~O~, ~ot.b.v{~/. Address: Jo~.~ City: [o~ September 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Y°urs tru~ ~.~ (~J ~._~ O..~m a,' Name: Address: City: State: Zip: September 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support 0f the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. 1 encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of lowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Name: at Address: ~ I City: ~0 ~'C( State: ~ Zip: ~; ~ C~ ~.'.'.: September 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: 1 am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. 1 encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Address: City:~t,, September 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: 1 am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. 1 encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Address: 3 ;'-~ ~~ ~ City: ~ C-~v~ State."-~ Zip: ~-~.~_~ Ef~5' September 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of lowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of lowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, Address: ~Of,.~ ~ City: ~_~a_~)~' State: ~ Zip: ~),~¢~' PATS.~CIA ECKHARDT * 514 N. L~-~ S~rS.~ET * IOWA CITY, IOWA 52245 · 319-338-3386 September 9, 2004 Dear Council Members and Commission Members, I am so pleased that the Gilbert and Linn Street District is finally a recognized Historic District. I hope you will continue to protect this district and others in the Northside by creating a Historic Preservation Overlay zone for these neighborhoods. A neighborhood is worth preserving and protecting, and a zoning overlay is an important tool to help with that. Please pass a local ordinance providing an overlay zone for the historic districts in theNo~thside. Sincerely, Patricia Eckhardt Thu, Sep 9, 2004 4:47 PM From: sfutrell <sfutrell@ mchsi.com> To: <sfutrell @ mchsi.com> Date: Thursday, September 9, 2004 4:46 PM Subject:' FW: Iowa City historic district support 9 September, 2004 Dear Iowa City Council~ We own and live in our house at 311 Fairchild Street in Iowa City. Like many of our neigh_bors, we are pleased amd thrilled that our house and neighborhood have been selected to be part of the Netional Register of Historic Places. We hope that will also lead q~ickly to the designation of a local historic district. Our house is an 1896 single-family home in a mixed owner-occupied and rental resident{al neighborhood. We make an effort to maintain the property in good condition, and have recently had m~jor renovation work done on the garage/outbuilding to stabilize and paint it. We are long-time Iowa City residents, and for the past 30 years have lived in various older neighborhoods. We also own a single-unit rental property in the Longfellow District. Part of what we enjoy and believe is unique and attractive about Iowa City are its older neighborhoods and the well-preservedhomes available to beth renters and potential homeowners. We are happy to support the proposed designation, and believe it will enhance and help to maintain our historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using the properties as they were intended. Please continue to support the recon~nendation of the State and National Register Nominations Review Committees, the State Historical Society of Iowa, and Friends of Historic Preservation, and designate our house and neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, Susan Futrell and Will Jennings 311 Fairchild St. Iowa City, IA 52245 319-337-7770 cc: Friends of Historic Preservation Page I of 1 September 8, 2004 Michael Maharry Chain Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Ir. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa C~ Iowa 53340 Re: Northside Historic Districts, Dear Council and Commission Members: As an 8 year resident to the Northside neighborhood I am writing to express my support of the proposed historic districts for the Northside of Iowa Ci~. Preservation of the northside is vital to the personality of our entire com- munity. It's architecture and people are diverse. This neighborhood has been the home to countless individuals who have passed through the universities doors. Songs and prose have been written about locations within.The north- side is a great place to live but it needs help form the constant abuse it receives. Many structures are owned by absentee landlords who monitor their properties and tenants poorly. Preservation status will help reverse years of neglect. Please recogn!ze the value of this neighborhood and vote to preserve it. Your actions will benefit our entire town. Thank you. Meredith Sewell ~ 420 Fairchild Street ~ Iowa City, Iowa 52245 © September ~ 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of lowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Address: g~/~::} /~. /2..(Pt ~ City.7~--14.~,~t ~)/~State:&~,~ Zip: September 8, 2004 Michael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Cormnission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 RE: Northside Historic Districts Dear Cotmcil and Commission Members: We are writing to inform you that we strongly support the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. We live in our house on North Linn Street not by force of circumstance as is the case with some renters or care facility residents we chose the Northside deliberately after a long search of available real estate in the Iowa City / Coralville area. We willingly and knowingly chose to live within a downtown, urban area. We enjoy the vitality of the Northside that is in large part fostered by the diversity of its residents: we are a neighborhood of students and professors, preschoolers and retirees, artists and lawyers, small business owners and wealthy entrepreneurs. That diversity we love needs protection as you know. Full and fair consideration of everyone's interests therefore must include those who are seeking to protect a very precious asset--the Northside's historic buildings. It is those very historical buildings that lured my husband and I to the Northside in the first place. All my life I have lived in historical homes--some significant, some less so. The lovely sameness of the newer neighborhoods, their planned homogeneity, simply does not make me comfortable. Our North Linn Street home, though simple and small by many people's standards, is to us extraordinarily special. I will spare you the ins and outs of the features we love about our property for in the end this debate about whether or not we should protect or not protect older buildings comes down to a matter of aesthetics. I fully understand that some people simply do not have the same preferences that I do. I fully understand that to some I merely live in an old house. I suspect that even ifI had world enough and time I would not be able to convince such people to see things otherwise---nor would I wish to. At the same time I don't wish to debate matters of beauty, I do think the Council would be wise to consider the more practical value of protecting the city's ever-diminishing historical districts. Iowa City, as we all know only too well, is currently struggling to redefine itself in relation to vast economic changes. The entire downtown area, including the Northside neighborhood, is caught up in this struggle. I am not a strict preservationist I love the new along with the old--but one thing is very clear to me---a historic collection of buildings is a huge asset to a city attempting to construct a workable, marketable identity with which to lure new investors and a diverse citizenry. The Northside is a part of the Dubuque Street Corridor--it offers many visitors their first experience oflowa City, and I can assure you that even people who think that aesthetics don't matter respond immediately and bodily to the visual appeal of a city--first impressions really do matter. Historical properties that are well maintained convey a sense of permanence and depth and solidity--which is something that even spectacular new architecture can never convey. I don't wish to bash our sister city, but you will probably recall when Coralville was recently attempting to "create" a town center that it didn't have they built fake colonial buildings precisely in an attempt to convey to newcomers, to potential citizens and investors, that very sense of history. What is sad is that new construction no matter how well done can never recreate history. I like those buildings in the "City Center" (I believe that is what it is called), but they look and feel fake--they are pseudo-historical--sort like a theme park's attempt to reconstruct an earlier era. Once inside those buildings, you will fmd there's absolutely nothing tmique about them; you could be in any office in Anywhere, USA. Iowa City does not need to fake its historical district: it still has one! The Northside's historical buildings add to the city's uniqueness and its diversity. This nomination to the Historical Registry will serve to protect one of Iowa City's most precious and irreplaceable assets. Now is the time to remember that whenever a historical building is destroyed its cultural value--that cultural capital if you will--is gone forever. I'm sure you can tell by now that I could go on at some length about this topic, but I will relinquish the floor to someone else now. My husband and I work late on Thursday nights, and barring a miracle we will not be able to attend the upcoming hearing. Had thought I could attend I would have spared you the novel and come to say these things myself. I really appreciate the work the council does you will utterly determine the future of this city I love. You have the difficult task of balancing diverse inter[%t~ s--I thank you for your willingness to hear our point of view. ~i~ O Sincerely, C; ** Tama Baldwin and John Mann /" 629 North Linn Street co Iowa City, Iowa 52245 September 7 2004 ichael Maharry Chair, Historic Preservation Commission Donald J. Anciaux Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Council and Commission Members: I am writing to express my support of the proposed local historic districts for the Northside of Iowa City. I encourage you to recognize the cultural as well as historical value of this area of the original town of Iowa City by recommending and passing a local ordinance for the proposed districts. Thank you. Yours truly, City: ~:3~ ~ % State: .~.lC~ Zip: JILL R. GAULDING 225 E. Davenport Street Iowa City, IA 52245 (319) 248-0875 H (319) 335-9047 W September 7, 2004 Donald J. Anciaux, Jr. Chair, Planning and Zoning Commission City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 Re: Northside Historic Districts Dear Mr. Anciaux: I am a Northside resident and I am writing to ask you to support the proposed historic districts m my neighborhood. Creating such districts will help to preserve a central part of Iowa City's history. Just as important, it will help to ensure that this neighborhood remains a diverse and pleasant place to live, for people of all ages and backgrounds. Finally, it will help to preserve downtown Iowa City as a fun place to work and shop, by providing the downtown with a pedestrian customer base. I have heard the objections by Mercy Hospital and local landlords, but I do not find them convincing: I believe that Mercy Hospital can find a way to meet its health care mission while also being a good neighbor within the Northside. Indeed, I think you do more to protect residents' health by supporting downtown neighborhoods than by giving Mercy carte blanche to expand, since recent studies have shown such "walkable" neighborhoods keep people healthier than car-based suburbs. Some local landlords have asked to be "left alone," and I can empathize with their sentiment - but we live in a community, and communities need to work together to set rules that enhance community well being. Thanks in advance for your support of the proposed local districts. Sincerely yours, Jill Gabtding Shelley McCaffert~ From: Marian Karr Sent: Tuesday, August 10, 2004 1:05 PM To: Shelley McCafferty Subject: FW: Historic Districts in Iowa City Kept Councit copy. ..... Original Message ..... From: SWOUDE@aol.com [mailto:SWOUDE@aol.com] Sent: Tuesday, August 10, 2004 9:12 AM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: Historic Districts in Iowa City We wish to encourage City Council members to support the proposed Historic Districts. We have proudly lived and worked in several Historic District properties for over ten years and find the additional regulations of Historic District zones have been far outweighed by the benefits we have received. Historic District neighborhoods make our older neighborhood more desirable to individuals and families interested in living in and preserving our older neighborhoods. The current controversy seems more about how Mercy Hospital and their Medical Community plan to expand and impact our neighborhood. As Mercy continues to grow, we hope their new buildings would be compatible with character of our historic streetscape and respectful of the people who reside in the neighborhood. Please show your support for preserving historic neighborhoods. Thank you for your consideration of our thoughts, Steve and Barbara van der Woude Residence: 509 Brown Street Business: Bostick Guest Houses 115 North Gilbert Street, 328 East Jefferson Street, 420 East Jefferson Street Bluffwood Steve & Jan Locher December 1, 2004 Creekside Garry Klein Friendship Iowa City City Council Alan & Tess Ellis 410 E. Washington ' ' ~ --- Galway Hills Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Bonnie Penno i ?,. , ,-'i Goosetown Dear City Council members: :,_; ..~' Carl Klaus .:;~ .. Harlocke-Weeber The Neighborhood Council of Iowa City is writing to express its int~est and~-~ Bill Graf Judith Klink point-of-view regarding the pending local Historic District. Longfellow Tim Weitzel As you are aware, the Comprehensive Plan, the Historic Preservation Plan and the establishment of the Historic Preservation Commission in 1992 represent Manville East Eveyln Acosta-Weirich efforts by the City to represent the vast majority of resident property owners who have been supportive of local historic designation. As a result, Iowa City Melrose Avenue Jean Walker has several local Historic Districts or Conservation Districts. The change in Miller Orchard zoning for these areas has been a positive planning tool for the City as the Ruth Baker neighborhoods have been stabilized and the quality of life has been improved for existing neighbors. Local designation has represented a minimal additional Northside ' Steering Committee burden to the property owners m these areas as they are only required to be reviewed where external building permits are required. Penny Bryn Pat & Jim Knebel Iowa City has gained a lot from these local Historic Districts and the Pepperwood Karen Dawes neighborhoods in which they exist: Shimek Mary Losch · A valuable part of Iowa City' s historic heritage is being preserved for future generations. South Pointe Kevin McCarthy · Historic neighborhoods enhance cultural and arts institutions in the area by attracting tourists and other visitors. Southwest Estates Jan Bergman · Historic neighborhoods are attractive to families who seek safe, comfortable, well-maintained areas to live. Ty'n Cae Judy Pfohl Positive attention is brought to Iowa City. Historic Districts are a measure of the quality of life in a community and are factor ~n how hvable reties Village Green Melvin Cannon are rated. · Historic Districts help attract new employees to Iowa City and the Walnut Ridge Mark Winkler University of Iowa who are looking for historic residential neighborhoods. Wetherby Friends · Neighborhoods are preserved with a traditional mix of large, medium and and Neighbors small-sized homes and lots. This provides for a diversity of owners and Jerry Hansen income levels in a neighborhood. Windsor Ridge · Historic Districts also stabilize property values. Tim Lehman Neighborhood Services Coordinator Marcia Klingaman 410 East Washington Street iowa City, IA 52240-1826 (319) 356-5237 On December 7t~ you will have the opportunity to review and consider the Gilbert-Linn district. This near Northside neighborhood provides additional benefits for Iowa City as a local Historic District: · Within walking distance of downtown, the neighborhood provides pedestrians, many of whom are downtown shoppers, easy access to downtown businesses. · Within walking distance of the University, the area is attractive to faculty and students. · As part of Iowa City's Cultural District, recognizing the historic heritage of the area enhances the downtown area. The Neighborhood Council believes that these long-term benefits from local Historic Districts enhance Iowa City, making it a more desirable place to live. We recommend that the City Council of Iowa City vote to approve the Gilbert-Linn Historic District as a local historic district. Sincerely, Neighborhood Council of Iowa City ~ .;:~ i,i:;.. -'a i-iii l~: 3,~ November 27, 2004 Dear Mayor Lehman: t ~'!''" ' "",~ ^ ;a We wish to express our strong support for the proposal to designate the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood a Historic District. Having carefully considered the arguments for and against this proposal, we are convinced that it is a reasonable response to the needs and goals of the Iowa City community. We would like to explain why. Consider, first, the interests of individual property owners. Some homeowners are against the proposal. But most of the resistance comes from people who do not live in the neighborhood; and we believe that it is based largely on ill-founded fears. The historic preservation designation has stabilized neighborhoods in Iowa City; and this, in turn, has had a positive effect on property values. In our neighborhood, in particular, the designation would help to preserve a wonderful, but delicate, balance between rentals and owner-occupied homes, large homes and small homes, students and families. It would signal to prospective buyers that the city is committed to the health of the neighborhood, and that the homes here are a safe investment for someone who is looking for a place to live. We are homeowners in the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood. But we are also citizens of a city we love. This is the second reason we support the proposal to protect the historic character of our neighborhood. In short, it is obvious to us that the health of the city is tied to the health of our neighborhood. This is, in part, a matter of aesthetics. More importantly, the people who live in the Gilbert-Linn Street district make a special contribution to the city's vitality. It is not just that we show up for the summer events at the fountain in large numbers (though we do). The point is that when people live near the heart of a city, this is where they spend their time and money. Just a few weeks ago, one of us (Sarah) went running with our daughter. In the middle of her run, this fourteen- year-old person announced that she needed a pair of black shoes and a black skirt for a concert the following day (!). By altering our route ever so slightly, we were able to stop in at Lorenz Boot Shop for the shoes, and at one of the Old Capital Mall shops for the skirt. This was not an atypical case; and it is not atypical for our neighbors either. We take our film to University Camera, buy our books at Prairie Lights, and pick up our prescription drugs at Osco. It may cost a little more, but we think the alternative is much worse: a ghost town, with lots of discount stores near the highways. The charm of Iowa City is not lost on people considering job offers from the University and other city employers. The city offers a diversity of neighborhoods for a diversity of tastes. It is important that this menu include safe, attractive, historic neighborhoods near the downtown. Again, the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood is far more likely to remain such a neighborhood -- and to become an even bigger asset for our university and businesses -- if the city has singled it out for historic preservation. It is far more likely to be a place where families put down roots, and where there is a thriving neighborhood school. The historic designation has value as a statement of commitment. It tells people trying to decide whether to move to Iowa City that this town cares about its past -- that it cares about itself. The City Council has expressed support for historic preservation in its most recent Comprehensive Plan. We can think of no more appropriate way to make good on this commitment than by endorsing the plan to preserve the historic character of the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood. Some people have suggested that the historic designation would be a violation of property rights. We ask you to consider whether this opinion is shared by those who actually live in historic districts. We have certainly not interviewed every one of these homeowners. But those with whom we have spoken -- whether they live on Summit Street or on Brown Street -- understand that no successful community is entirely free of regulations; and they are delighted to accept a few additional requirements in exchange for the sort of protection and support which the historic preservation designation guarantees. Several years ago, we put up a fence in our backyard. To make this change, we had to obtain a permit. We understand that if our windows are open, we should not play loud music after midnight, that we should repair our sidewalks, and refrain from throwing trash onto our front lawn. We value our freedom, and we expect our City lawmakers to endorse this value as well. The question is: what is the right balance to strike between the values that can only be realized by rules and regulations and the value of having the freedom to do what one wants with one's property? Given all of the benefits mentioned above, we believe that designating our neighborhood a historic district clearly strikes the right balance. The result will be a few new requirements. But these requirements are easy to meet, and for anyone who wishes to live in his or her home for any length of time and to maintain its value, they are a protection, not a burden. The Historic Preservation Commission has a terrific record of working with homeowners to help them renovate their homes according to their wishes. In the entire history of the Commission, there have been only three appeals. That's three out of several hundreds. Somewhere in the middle of enumerating our reasons for supporting the proposed historic preservation district, we stopped counting. We hope it is clear, however, that there are many reasons -- many good reasons -- to support this proposal. We urge you to consider these reasons and to support the proposal yourself. Sincerely, Sarah Buss and Henry Ll Pau son Marian Karr From: paula o. brandt [pobrandt@avalon.net] Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2004 8:59 PM To: cou ncil@iowa-city.org Subject: Gilbert-Linn Historic District Dear Councilors, At tonight's Nerthside Neighborhood Association meeting, attendees voted unanimously te support the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. The Nerthside has experience with the Brown St. Historic District and knows hew historic district designation benefits the residents of the district and the neighborhood. With the the proximity of the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District to the Brown Street district and the new Renalds Street district, experience tells us that this proposed district will also be geed for its residents and the Northside. We hope that you will all support the Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District because great neighborhoods help make Iowa City a great place in which te live. Best wishes, Paula Brandt, Recorder for the Nerthside Neighborhood Association Marian Karr From: j ponto@avalon.net Sent: Friday, December 03, 2004 10:01 AM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: Gilbert-Linn historic district Dear City Council members, As a homeowner in the Northside neighborhood for more than 25 years, now living in the Brown Street Historic District, I want to voice my support for the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I frequent this area nearly daily while walking to and from work, walking downtown, and jogging for exercise. understand that many ef the houses are rental properties; nonetheless, the character, charm, and ambiance ef the neighborhood are still unmistakably present. I believe that this proposed district has been appropriately researched and nominated for preservation. I further believe that the increased restrictions associated with a Historic District (ie, review ef exterior changes by the Historic Preservation Commission) are relatively minor, net prohibitively expensive, and not unduely time-consuming. Hence, I believe that Historic Preservation is net incompatible with rental property management. I urge the Council to favorably weigh the many neighborhood advantages ef Historic Preservation with the relatively miner disadvantages. Thank you. -Jim Ponto 618 Brown St. Iowa City Barbara M. Buss 718 South Summit Street Iowa City, IA 52240-5658 319-351-3309 Email: barbybuss@msn.com December 2, 2004 To the Mayor and the Members of the Iowa City City Council: I am writing to urge your support for the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic D$~tiiet. In ~967 our family moved to Iowa City where we have chosen to live in areas with'~ walkiI~ distance of the center of the city. For thirty-seven years we lived on West Benton Street; two years ago we moved to South Summit Street. These neighborhoods are similar in their proximity to the center of the city and to the university. They are dissimilar in the degree to which property values are protected for owner occupied properties. South Summit Street is protected by its status as an Historic District. The Miller-Orchard neighborhood, of which Benton Street is a part, has no such protection, and many of the homes there are no longer occupied by their owners. As a result the City is at risk in losing what once was a stable neighborhood of lower priced houses. The protection of property values on South Summit Street, by contrast, protects the property values in the neighborhood around it, ensuring its continuation as a diverse and viable neighborhood. You may ask why this is relevant. My answer is that it is the more permanent residents of a neighborhood that ensure its stability. A healthy neighborhood can accommodate many temporary residents who l-efresh their neighborhoods by their turn-over. It is unreasonable, however, to expect temporary residents to support and work for the long term interests of the neighborhood, the responsibility for which necessarily lies with those who have made a financial and emotional commitment to the streets where they live. This commitment clearly benefits the City as a whole. There are buyers for houses in need of repair, buyers who are willing to rehabilitate them at their own expense in what I see as a private form of urban renewal. But this happens only when these buyers believe that their investments will be protected by the stability of the neighborhood. An investment in a house is always an investment in a location. Some buyers chose to protect their investments by making them in homogeneous neighborhoods and sub-divisions removed from the "traffic" of the inner city. For those who prefer the convenience of car independence and the richness of diversity of the inner city the protection is not so automatic. It is an obvious fact that properties in the inner city neighborhoods are subject to exploitation by those who would capitalize on the student market for inexpensive rentals. I do not object to students as neighbors, and I have heard no objections of this kind from anyone in the Gilbert-Linn Street Neighborhood. I do not object to non-resident landlords, and I have heard no such objections from anyone in the Gilbert-Linn Street Neighborhood. There is not a class of resident or property owner from which this neighborhood needs protection. Designation as an Historic District is not an exclusive designation. The minimal restrictions that follow from it are designed to stem the practices of exploitation which lower the value of properties in this neighborhood, making it less desirable for home-ownership, and more desirable for further exploitation. In the end, a neighborhood such as the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood loses its diversity and stability by discouraging permanent residents. I believe that the personal gain this brings to a few non-resident property owners, comes at a great cost to the city - a cost which could be prevented by the adoption of the proposal now before you. Marian Karr From: Amy Kolen [amy-kolen@uiowa.edu] Sent: Sunday, December 05, 2004 7:45 PM To: counciJ@iowa-city.org Subject: Letter in support of Historic district/For meeting on Monday, Dec. 7 Dear Iowa City City Council, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. I am an Iowa City homeowner and longtime resident. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties and the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help to maintain this historic neighborhood without inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, Amy Kolen Marian Karr From: WillT@aoI.com Sent: Monday, December 06, 2004 9:58 AM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: Gilbert/Linn St. Historic District Dear Councilmembers: On the docket this week is a motion to declare the Gilbert/Linn St. Neighborhood an historic district. I am writing in support of the proposal. I am a resident of the Longfellow Neighborhood, which has historic district status, and I find that as a homeowner it has afforded me a number of benefits which outweigh any rumored disadvantages. As a resident of Iowa City for 23 years and as a Museum 9rofessional for 35 years, I appreciate the historic significance of Iowa City's older neighborhoods and hope that the Council will continue to have the foresight to approve motions which will enhance its neighborhoods' value, identity, and historic, cultural and architectural character. I recently completed installation of historic signs in our neighborhood (with funding from a City Neighborhood Art Grant, thanks!) which have been universally well received and roundly praised. Our neighbors are proud of this neighborhood, and have taken more interest in its improvement and character than before historic status, and it seems fitting that the Gilbert/Linn St. neighbors have the same opportunity. I urge you all to support historic district status for the Gilbert/Linn St. neighborhood. Thank you, Will Thomson 516 Grant St. City of lowa City Attn. City Clerk City Hall 410 E. Washington lowa City, Dec. 3, 2004 Dear Ladies and Gentlemen: I would like my letter of opposition to the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District to be withdrawn. Sincerely, (Waltraud Maierhofer) 426 N. Gilbe~ St. Iowa Ci~, IA 52245 STATE OF IOWA COUNTY OFJOHNSON Subscribed and swom to before me by / / on this ~ dayof ._~.~r., ev'~ ~, ~- , [ ,.~,¢1 SONDRAE FORT I ~°lJ~ T. JCommission Number 159791J · ~'1 My_Commission Expires J "m'~ I ~- 7'- at,· I Notary Public in and for Iowa Chris Offutt 11/29/04 309 Church Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 319-358-6341 chris-offutt@uiowa.edu Dear Members of the Iowa City Council, I am writing to seek your vote for the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Street area as an Historic District. I have lived in Iowa City since 1988. During that time, I have been both a renter and a homeowner. I chose to live in the Gilbert-Linn Street neighborhood for a few reasons. First, I like living in an area that has both students and families. Second, my kids and I enjoy the ability to walk downtown easily to shop. Third, I prefer living in a neighborhood with beautiful older buildings that are available both for rent and to own. Designating the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as an Historic District is consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood. Preserving the integrity of the older neighborhoods provides a rich resource that benefits the entire community. One of the factors that influence how cities are rated in country-wide "Top Ten Places to Live" are the number of Historic Neighborhoods. Such areas encourage growth, tourism and investment. The people who live in this neighborhood are in favor of the designation. We have a strong stake because this is where we chose to live, to raise our families, to put down roots. We care deeply about the area in which we live. I urge you to give careful consideration to the concerns of neighborhood residents. Sinc Chris Offutt .~ '~5 ~.~t) Pagelof2 Marian Kart From: Robert Cornell [robert-cornell@uiowa.edu] Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 11:20 AM To: council@iowa-city.org Subject: In Favor of Gilbert-Linn St Historic District December 7, 2004 City of Iowa City City Council Members RE: Gilbert-Linn St. Neighborhood Historic District Dear City Councilors I am writing to voice my strong opinion in favor of the proposal to designate Gilbert-Linn St. neighborhood a Historic District. I was recruited to the faculty of the Anatomy and Cell Biology department of the Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa in 2001. I had attractive competing offers at academic departments in Phoenix, Arizona, Burlington, Vermont, and Portland, Oregon. My wife and I visited each city before making the decision on where to move. We have two small children, and our highest priority in this decision was the quality of the school system, and in general our perceived "livability" of the town. We chose Iowa City in large part because of the beauty and convenience of the neighborhoods surrounding campus. We wanted to be able to live somewhere where we could walk our children to school, walk or bike to work, and walk downtown to shop. We loved the Northside neighborhood because it offered all of those features. When we learned that Brown St. was a historic district, it became "ground- zero" for our house hunt, because we recognized that the historic district designation would help preserve the beauty of this neighborhood. We were thrilled to find a house for sale on Brown St., and we put down a full-price offer on the house within 24 hours of seeing it. This is a true story that reflects the importance of an existing historic district in one family's decision to move to Iowa City. Recruitment and retention of faculty at the University of Iowa is an issue that impacts the reputation of the University, which can be reasonably presumed to impact the endowment of the University, and thus indirectly the Iowa City community. It stands to reason that other faculty recruits will be similarly influenced. I urge your support of this important proposal. Yours truly, Robert A. Cornell 315 Brown St. Iowa City, Iowa 52245 December 4, 2004 Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Council Members, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties and keep the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, December 4, 2004 Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Council Members, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire corrwnunity. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties and keep the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Marian Karr From: Karin Franklin Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 11:33 AM To: Marian Karr Subject: FW: Numbers Please pass on to the Council. Thanks. ..... original Message ..... From: Shelley McCafferty Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 11:33 AH To: Karin Franklin Subject: RE: Numbers Karin, I have been keeping track of all the properties, owners and letters on a spread sheet. I'm quite confident that it is accurate. Here is where there may be discrepencies in the numbers: The following are duplexes, technically they are counted as one property but listed by owners as two: William Lake, 404 & 404 ½ Deavnport Frank Person, 321 & 323 E. Davenport Greg Allen, 301 & 303 E. Davenport Mark Hamer, (H&G), 420-22 N. Linn Eugene Fisher, 328 & 330 N. Linn Melvin Roth owns 421 & 429 N. Gilbert - listed only 421 N. Gilbert in letter Renetta Webster recently sold 402 Davenport to Jim Buxton - there are letters referencing this property from both owners. Jim Buxton wrote two letters. Therefore, all three of the properties he currently owns are referenced twice. Letters form Waultraud Maierhofer for 426 N. Gilbert and Don Stumbo for 323 N. Linn withdrawn Hodge Construction owns 220 Davenport - the letter from Hodge references 203 N. Linn, which is not in the district, and 222 E. Market, which doesn't exist. In conclusion, 41 owners representing 54 properties have protested the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historic District. Within the district, there are 95 properties and 76 different owners. The owners in protest of the district represent 52% of the total property area. Shelley ..... Original Message ..... From: Karin Franklin Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 8:15 AM To: Shelley McCafferty Subject: Numbers Could reconcile for me the difference between the numbers you gave me on Gilbert-Linn protests and Bob and Mike's numbers? Thanks. NORTHSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTY OWNERS OPPOSED Owner Property Address Lot Square Foot John Alberhasky 324 N. Gilbert 4,800 Greg Allen 301 / 303 E. Fairchild 6,640 Peter Ammentorp 308 E. Davenport 2,435 313 N. Linn 4,000 319 N. Linn 3,200 304 E. Davenport 2,064 John Bakas 514 N. Gilbert 5,000 Bruce Brechtel 528 N. Gilbert 4,000 James Brenneman 519 N. Gilbert 3,220 James Buxton 225 E. Church 1,640 403 / 405 N. Linn 3,850 402 E. Davenport 2,400 Michael Cooper 507 / 513 N. Linn 12,000 John Cress 624 N. Linn 6,050 Jean Daters 319 E. Davenport 6,000 Jeff Dill 328 E. Fairchild 2,800 Dwight Dobberstein 311 E. Davenport 6,450 318 N. Linn 2,880 326 N. Linn 2,320 Joseph Dobrian 217 E. Davenport 12,000 Emergency Housing 331 N. Gilbert 4,000 Tim Finer 522 N. Gilbert 3,200 Eugene Fisher 325 N. Gilbert 8,000 328 / 330 N. Linn 4,480 420 N. Gilbert 3,168 Mark Hamer 214 E. Davenport 2,016 420 / 422 N. Linn 3,168 Shirley Harrison 309 E. Fairchild 6,000 Gregory Hassman 533 N. Linn 2,337 Harry Hinckley 326 E. Fairchild 2,800 Mike Hodge 220 E. Davenport 6,000 Thomas Kane 615 N. Linn 3,200 620 N. Linn 5,500 Walter Kopsa 320 E. Davenport 6,000 324 E. Davenport 6,000 William Lake 404 E. Davenport 2,400 Donna Launspach 223 E. Davenport 6,000 Matthew Lepic 612 N. Linn 4,500 NORTHSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD PROPERTY OWNERS Owner Property Address Lot Square Foot William Leupold 318 N. Gilbert 3,800 ~^,~, ............. ,~. A,~ k~ ~;~.^~ ~; SOO · Wendell Miller 320 E. Fairchild 6,000 John Nelson 222 E. Davenport 6,150 Vy Nguyen 402 E. Fairchild 3,190 Mary Palmberg 322 N. Linn 2,400 Frank Person 321 E. Davenport 6,000 Kip Pohl 512 N. Gilbert 4,050 James Pohl 230 E. Fairchild 4,500 Scott Ramspott 628 N. Linn 4,950 Marcy Rosenbaum 314 E. Fairchild 5,700 Lance & Nichole Slabach 228 E. Church 8,800 411 N. Linn 8,000 Melvin Roth 421 /429 N. Gilbert 8,000 Hubert & Leona Rummelhart 314 E. Davenport 6,000 Joel Schintler 315 E. Davenport 5,550 Renetta Webster 330 N. Gilbert 4,000 Total Square Footage ~365;108~ Northside Neighborhood Totals December 3, 2004 Property Owners ~(~ r(o -4~-property owners opposed (approximately ,B'7~oi ~3'2-property owners in favor or undecided Properties ~rb'-properties opposed (approximately .-3-8'properties in favor or undecided Square Footaqe ,-265-,-,-,-,-,-,-,+~ square footage opposed (approximately 54-%) %' ~,~ AT,~ square footage in favor or undecided ....... December 7, 2004 Council Members City of Iowa City 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, Iowa 53340 Re: Northside Historic Districts, Dear Council Members: I live at 420 Fairchild Street. My home is NOT in a proposed designated historic area. I am writing as a resident of the Northside and a resident of Iowa City. I and my dog Pete walk throughout this neighborhood daily. I've seen well maintained homes deteriorate in a mater of months with a simple change of ownership. Properties of absentee landlords who do not control the physical abuse their properties receive from very young tenants.This has been happening in this neighborhood for decades. I feel historic designation is a viable way to ensure positive stewardship where it is desperately needed. There are many landlords who do maintain their properties, and maintain them well. We need this designation for those who do not. As I understand it, Historic designation is not asking home owners to restore their properties to their original splendor. It is asking owners to respect the architectural integrity of their properties when they do repair or build on. I encourage you to vote for historic designation, It will benefit individual properties, it will benefit a neighborhood struggling to maintain it's historic appeal. It will help preserve a neighborhood vital to the character of Iowa City. Sincerely, Meredith Sewell 420 Fairchild Street Iowa City, Iowa 52245 337-6177 meredith.sewell@act.org 54_ Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Iowa City City Council, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties, and maintain the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help to maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, 7~ Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Iowa City City Council, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties, and maintain the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help to maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Iowa City City Council, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community's most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties, and maintain the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help to maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, Iowa City City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Iowa City City Council, I am writing to ask you to support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn Historic District, as consistent with Iowa City's comprehensive plan for this neighborhood and as a resource that benefits the entire community. The historic district designation will help to maintain one of our community' s most visible and accessible neighborhoods as a mixed owner-occupied and rental residential neighborhood. Part of what makes Iowa City unique and attractive are its older neighborhoods and the well-preserved homes available to both renters and potential homeowners. Designation of a local historic district is one of the best ways to preserve the value invested in these properties, and maintain the unique character of the neighborhood. The proposed designation will enhance and help to maintain this historic neighborhood while in no way inhibiting property owners from using their property in ways that are consistent with current zoning. Please support the designation of the Gilbert-Linn neighborhood as a local historic district. Thank you for your consideration, and for all of your efforts on behalf of Iowa City. Sincerely, Page 1 of 1 Marian Karr From: Cinda Tallent [aJltallus@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2004 5:00 PM To: cou ncil@iowa-city.org Subject: Gilbert-Linn Street Historical District Dear Council Member, I am writing to earnestly request that you support the proposed Gilbert-Linn Street Historical'District. We have owned our home on N. Gilbert street for 13 years, and are ourselves included in the Brown Street Historical District. This has not always been convenient. We remodelled/updated our 100-year old house several years ago. In addition to the headaches of remodelling on a limited budget while living in our house, we had to submit proposed exterior changes to a review process. But on the other side of the balance, we have seen a neighborhood remain diverse while property values stayed stable to rising. Our neighbors on both sides are renters. Our new neighbor to the North is a student who finds her apartment in an old house charming, and who loves living on a street with children and people of different ages. To the South we have a teacher who lived in his rental apartment for many years. There is a demand in the rental market for this kind of housing. I would also argue that strengthening the historical character and intact neighborhood of Linn- Gilbert Streets would provide support for Northside and Downtown Business Districts. Business owners, landlords, homeowners, renters and Iowa City as a whole stand to benefit from this kind of long-sighted planning. Sincerely, Cinda Tallent (715 N. Gilbert Street, Iowa City) Do you Yahoo!? The all-newMy Yahoo! - What will yours do? 12/7/2004 City Council 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City, IA 52240 Dear Council Members: I am writing to ask for your support for the proposed Gilbert-Linn Historic District. I have owned a house in the Gilbert-Linn district for ten years and love the neighborhood. But I am keenly aware of the precarious balance that keeps it a livable place for those of us who call it home. While the neighborhood offers a diverse mix of rentals and owner-occupied housing-- something that makes it attractive for anyone committed to urban values--keeping that mix requires active civic engagement. Historic designation would go a long way towards making sure the neighborhood continues to be a desirable place where people can live, raise families, and invest in their properties with the assurance that the neighborhood will remain stable. Although some opponents of the proposed district have suggested that this proposal has been rushed to a vote, it has actually been a long time coming. The Comprehensive Plan, the Historic Preservation Plan, and the establishment of the Historic Preservation Commission in 1992 all assumed that there would be local historic designations forthcoming for areas within the older neighbors, including the Northside. The Historic Preservation Commission has reviewed and recommended the proposed Gilbert-Linn district. Following that, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the recommendation in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan--at three separate hearings that took a total of six weeks. This has not been rushed. Like many residents of Iowa City, I welcome the proposed district because I am convinced that historic neighborhoods enhance the well-being of the whole city by offering the type of dense, walkable, transit-friendly neighborhoods that many planners now seek to emulate. Planners, architects, municipalities and even developers increasingly recognize the positive attributes of older neighborhoods. The trend nationwide is to stabilize such neighborhoods, or where they are lacking, to build new ones that have similar characteristics. Historic preservation is not just about preserving mansions or civic buildings, but about saving neighborhoods comprised of vernacular homes because of the character and quality of life these neighborhoods provide. Many cities also use historic preservation as a means of providing affordable housing, both by protecting existing housing stock (including smaller, more affordable houses) and by providing tax credits. Historic designation has had demonstrably positive effects for other parts of Iowa City, and both residents and landlords who own property in those areas have profited; now we have the chance to extend those benefits further. I hope you agree that the proposed Gilbert-Linn historic district represents a positive step forward for Iowa City and that you will support it with your vote. Sincerely, JeffPorter 413 N. Gilbert St. Big 10 Keystone Property 3 $575,500 26 3 0 0 0 2 2 18 1 0 0 0 Ammentorp Proper 4 $588,500 23 0 1 0 0 0 6 16 0 0 0 0 .~ lC Rentals 1 $155,600 20 2 0 1 0 0 6 8 1 0 0 2 William Terr~ 1 $172,190 13 3 0 1 0 1 2 5 0 0 0 1 Jim Buxton 3 $454,280 13 0 1 1 1 0 2 5 2 1 0 0 James Brenneman 1 $102,030 11 0 1 0 0 5 2 3 0 0 0 0 Greg Allen 1 $264,210 9 2 0 0 0 2 0 5 0 0 0 0 Joe Dobrian 1 $167,720 9 1 0' 0 0 1 4 3 0 0 0 0 H & (3 2 $318,200 9 0 0 0 1 0 2 5 0 0 0 1 Hodge Constructio~ 1 $125,080 9 0 0 1 0 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 TOTAL 18 $2,923,310 142 11 3 4 2 11 29 73 4 1 0 4, Other 29 33 72 21 0 3 2 4 12 37 2 0 1 9 Yes Letters 27 33 0 0 2 0 1 0 28 2 0 0 0 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE 2006-2010 CONSOLIDATED PLAN (a.k.a CITY STEPS) The City Council will be holding a public hearing and considering the approval of Iowa City's 2006-2010 Consolidated Plan (a.k.a. CITY STEPS) on December 7, 2004, at 7:00 p.m., City Hall, Emma J. Harvat Hall, 410 East Washington Street, Iowa City, IA. The City of Iowa City is making this opportunity available to citizens wishing to comment on the 2006-2010 CITY STEPS plan. At their November 18, 2004 meeting, the Housing and Community Development Commission recommended approval of this plan to the City Council. The 2006-2010 CITY STEPS plan outlines a range of activities to be undertaken by the City and its subrecipients to address the housing, jobs and service needs of Iow- income citizens. Copies of the 2006-2010 CITY STEPS Plan are available from the Department of Planning and Community Development, 410 East Washington Street. In addition, a copy of the 2006-2010 CITY STEPS plan is available for review at the Iowa City Public Library 123 S. Linn Street or on the City of Iowa City's web site (www.icgov.org). Additional information is available from the Department of Planning and Community Development, 410 East Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa, 52240 or by calling 356- 5230. If you require special accommodations or language translation please contact Stephen Long at 356-5250 or 356-5493 TTY at least seven (7) days prior to the meeting. MEMORANDUM DATE: November 29, 2004 TO: City Council and City Manager FROM: Steven Nasby, Community and Economic Development Coordinator RE: 2006-2010 Consolidated Plan - Public Hearing and Approval Enclosed in the Council packet is a revised copy of the 2006-2010 Consolidated Plan (also known as CITY STEPS). This is a five-year plan that is required by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The purpose of the CITY STEPS plan is to provide a framework for the provision of housing, jobs and services for low-income residents. At the December 7 City Council meeting, the CITY STEPS plan is scheduled for a public hearing and approval. CITY STEPS is most often used by the Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) and the City Council for the annual allocation of Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership program monies. The priorities and strategies outlined in this planning document will assist the City and its partners in meeting community needs ranging from child care to job creation. On November 18, HCDC held a public hearing and recommended approval of the 2006-2010 CITY STEPS Plan to the City Council with the following revisions. The priorities being recommended for change by HCDC are shown below: 1. Child Care Centers (dependent care: Change from a "medium" to a "high "priority. A "high "priority ranking is consistent with the 2001-2006 CITY STEPS plan; and 2. Senior Services: Change from a "medium" to a "high "priority; and 3. Commercial-Industrial Rehabilitation: Change from a "medium" to a "low "priority. A "low "priority is consistent with the 2001-2006 CITY STEPS plan. These HCDC recommendations have been included in the final 2006-2010 CITY STEPS plan. Amendments to the proposed CITY STEPS plan may be considered by the Council at this meeting. Following the approval of the CITY STEPS plan, the comments received at the December 7 public hearing and any amendments will be added, which may cause the page numbers within the document to change. Once the document is complete and the final page numbers established, a Table of Contents will be added. If you have any comments or questions please contact me at 356-5248. Cc: Karin Franklin, Director of Planning and Community Development Housing and Community Development Commission CITY Iowa City's Consolidated Plan for Housing, lobs, and Services for Low-Income Residents 2006-2010 City of Iowa City CITY STEPS 2006-2010 December 2004 Citl: Council Ernie Lehman, Mayor Ross Wilburn, Mayor Pro Tem Regenia Bailey Connie Champion Bob Elliott Mike O'Donnell Dee Vanderhoef Housing and CommunitF Development Commission Matt Hayek, Chair Jerry Anthony, Vice Chair Erin Barnes Lori Bears Mark Edwards William Greazel Brian Richman Jayne Sandler City Manager Stephen J. Atkins Department of Planning and Community Development Karin Franklin, Director Steven Nasby, Community & Economic Development Coordinator Tracy Hightshoe, Associate Planner Steve Long, Associate Planner Tamara Robinson, Consolidated Plan Specialist ii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The goal of CITY STEPS is to encourage and support families and individuals in achieving their highest degree of self-sufficiency. This CITY STEPS document defines the City's policies and strategies related to the planning and provision of assistance to Iowa City's low-income population over the next five years. (Low-income means any household whose income is below 80% of the median income for Iowa City). The document identifies the needs of low-income persons, and sets priorities and develops strategies to meet these needs through federal, state and local funding programs. In July 2004, a series of public meetings were conducted throughout the community concerning the needs of low-income households. These meetings focused on affordable housing, homelessness, and the needs of low-income households in the areas of economic development, public facilities and public services. These meetings brought to light an assortment of interrelated needs and problems. The information taken from these meetings was used to summarize and prioritize community needs. A listing of the priorities can be found on Table IV. 1 on p. 98 and Table IV.5 p. 110). These priorities will be used by the City in determining funding allocations for the Community Development Block Grant program (CDBG), the HOME program, and other federal, state and local resources over the next five years. Information from the public meetings and other sources resulted in the identification of four main areas of need as follows: 1) public facilities and services; 2) homeless facilities and services; 3) housing that is decent and affordable; and 4) economic development. Within each of these broad areas there are strategies for meeting the needs and specific objectives to be accomplished in the next five years. Public facilities and services are community-wide needs that help many low-income persons. The services identified in this plan are targeted toward helping persons to achieve their greatest degree of self-sufficiency. The greatest needs, and highest priorities, were for dependent care (particularly childcare), transportation and health services (prevention, nutrition, medical care, etc.). High priorities were given to these and other items (see p. 100). Assistance with living skills, such as budgeting, retaining housing, being a good neighbor, etc., were other needs mentioned by many agencies and subsequently given a priority. Providing housing and services for homeless families and individuals is also a high priority need. One- night count and survey of the sheltered and unsheltered homeless in Iowa City (May 14, 2004) showed that there were 250 persons in shelters and 20 persons on the pedestrian mall, under bridges, camped along the river, and on the streets. Annually, there are approximately 1,200 homeless persons passing through the City's shelters. The problems facing the City's shelters are many. In particular, Shelter House Community Shelter and Transitional Services gets very heavy use and is continually overcrowded and in need of rehabilitation, the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) houses abused women and children but does not have the staff to operate at full capacity, and Four Oaks Youth Homes shelter is at capacity and has a waiting list. The 2000 survey showed that most of the homeless persons interviewed intended on staying in Iowa City, and many of them were employed but could not afford housing. This helps to exacerbate the overcrowding problem in the homeless shelters. Transitional housing that provides housing support services is the next step for many leaving the shelters. Over the last five years efforts have been made to increase the number of units available for transitional housing. Due to an overwhelming need, transitional housing and support services remain a high priority need. Iowa City's housing needs are identified in Section II of this document (p. 11). The need for decent, affordable housing was mentioned at every public meeting. This need is quantified by the data in Table II.1 (p.15). This Census data from 2000 shows approximately 2,030 low-income, related or elderly renter households are paying over 30% of their gross income for housing costs. The demographics have certainly changed over the last nine years and many efforts have been undertaken to address this need. As we know, Iowa City's housing market is greatly influenced by the University of Iowa, other major employers and the annual influx of people into the community. Due to the increasing demands for both rental and owner-occupied units, the cost of housing has increased steadily. Data on Iowa City and the surrounding area housing market is in Section III (p. 49). The need for economic development has become a priority need for the community as the link between jobs, housing and services becomes more apparent for helping low-income persons. Iowa City has a large number of persons who are employed but do not make a "living wage", receive no benefits or are "temporary" employees. At one of the public input meetings there were many public comments suggested that all economic development activities, from job training to industrial expansion, should focus on creating jobs with benefits, which pay at least a living wage. Since this is a five-year plan, all four of the general needs categories are designed to allow for a variety of activities that may be undertaken by community organizations, human service agencies, developers, or the City to address the many specific needs and meet the objectives outlined in the Strategic Plan (p. 95). Within the Strategic Plan, there are two tables that show the number of units and dollars needed to totally meet the existing needs in the community over the next five years. The information on table IV.2, IV.3, and IV.4 (p. 100) shows what federal resources Iowa City expects to receive over the next five years and the types of activities that may be funded. CITY STEPS is intended to provide citizens, organizations and public agencies with a usable, comprehensive view of Iowa City's plan for meeting the needs of low-income persons. Overall, the plan attempts to use the resources that are available to bring together housing, jobs and services to help low- income persons attain their highest degree of self-sufficiency. As needs change the plan will be amended accordingly. I.Development of the 2006-201 0 Consolidation Plan (CITY STEPS) I. The Process In July 2004, the Community Development Office of the City of Iowa City began the consolidated planning process by meeting with other department leaders, social service agencies, and citizen committees to ensure cooperation and broad-based community participation. These early meetings helped to design a comprehensive strategy for collecting data, hearing citizen and social service agency needs and concerns, assimilating information, and prioritizing community needs. CITY STEPS was chosen as the name for Iowa City's 1995 Consolidated Plan with the hope that the process and the resulting comprehensive plan would be more easily identified by its users and creators, the citizens of Iowa City. Throughout this document CITY STEPS and Consolidated Plan are used interchangeably. The City of Iowa City served as the lead entity in overseeing the development of CITY STEPS. A list of agencies, groups, organizations, and others who participated in the process through attendance at public meetings is included in Appendix 1. 1. Community Participation Process CITY STEPS was developed through citizen participation. The process offered numerous opportunities for public input, comment and review. In particular, opportunities were provided for the exchange of ideas and information with social service agencies, program consumers, interested citizens, elected officials, and City staff. The concerns raised and solutions suggested in these forums became the basis for the needs, strategies, and objectives of CITY STEPS. In July 2004, three CITY STEPS public meetings were held to discuss the needs of low-income residents. Letters of invitation to participate and posters were sent to more than 250 social service agencies, advocacy groups, churches, civic and neighborhood organizations, and local businesses. Posters and press releases were also posted throughout the community to alert the general public and the media. (See Appendix 2) The public meetings were held in two locations within the community, and were well attended by social service agencies, City officials, community residents, and program users. They discussed homeless needs, housing needs, and non-housing community development needs. In September 2004 one general public meeting was held by the Housing and Community Development Commission, to facilitate the participation of those citizens who will be reviewing and recommending strategies and projects for CDBG and HOME funding. The forums were well attended by a wide cross section of the community. Summaries of the needs and issues raised at the four public meetings are provided in Appendix 3. The issues raised at these meetings, in addition to supporting data from the 2001-2006 Consolidated Plan and other sources, were the basis from which the strategies and priorities for meeting the identified needs were developed. Copies of this document were made available for public comment starting October 15, 2004. Subsequently, public hearings were held on November 18, 2004 and December 7, 2004. The City Council approved the document on December 7, 2004. This document will serve as a tool to assist in funding allocation decisions during the City of Iowa City's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME programs allocation hearings. During the public comment period the CITY STEPS plan was made available to other governmental entities, including the Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG), the Johnson County Board of Supervisors and other local governmental jurisdictions. 2. Consultation with Social Service Agencies and other Entities The entire CITY STEPS Consolidated Plan was developed with the assistance, support, and active participation of social service agencies in the community. From review of the draft plan, participation in the information gathering process and comment at public hearings, the views, concerns and assessments of social service agencies and the consumers they represent have shaped the creation of CITY STEPS. City staff also worked closely with the JCCOG Human Services Coordinator and other JCCOG staff to define needs facing the greater Iowa City community. Some discussions were also held with JCCOG staff related to housing and transportation needs. Two formal consultation meetings were held on September 23, 2004. These two consultation meetings targeted human service agency providers and other units of government. The consultation meeting with human service providers was conducted in conjunction with a meeting of the Johnson County Local Homeless Coordinating Board. 3. Submission of Non-housing Community Development Plan to Other Agencies Upon completion, the CITY STEPS Plan will be distributed to agencies and local units of government including the State of Iowa and the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. 4. Summary of Citizen Comments Citizen input from public meetings and the consultation meetings is shown in Appendix 3. The following section identifies the comments received at formal public hearings and during the 30-day public comment period. September 30, 2004 Public Hearing Comments Response According to Iowa City Free Medical Clinic, visits This supporting information can be added to the from chronically ill patients (people having diabetes appropriate portion of the document. and hypertension specifically) has increased by 68% since 2000. Many employers are no longer able to offer healthcare This supporting information can be added to the benefits, appropriate portion of the document. Many non-profit healthcare facilities insurance is This supporting information can be added to the increasing due to malpractice, liability, and property appropriate portion of the document. insurance coverage. November 18, 2004 Public Hearing Comments Response A concern about senior groups not being notified Notices regarding public meetings were mailed to Elder regarding the CITY STEPS planning process. (Also Services, Inc. and flyers were distributed to the Iowa accepted in written correspondence.) City\Johnson County Senior Center. Senior groups such as AARP, the Heritage Area Agency on Aging and Johnson County Taskforce on Aging will be added to the mailing list. The plan does not address unmet transportation needs Language about this unmet need will be included in the for seniors, especially for grocery shopping. (Also Public Service Needs section of the CITY STEPS Plan. accepted in written correspondence.) In addition, the Community and Economic Development Office has contacted Johnson County SEATS about using CDBG funds for an expansion of service. Iowa City does not want to allow mobile homes, Manufactured housing is permitted in all residential however many low-income persons could benefit from zones within the City. these types of homes. (Also accepted in written correspondence.) Area subsidized housing complexes should consider The two buildings referenced were financed with HUD seniors between 60-62, as there are several vacancies at funds; thus, HUD sets the occupancy guidelines. area complexes. Persons with mental disabilities also cannot access the units unless they are in a wheelchair. Need to include comprehensive and creative housing The Housing and Community Development strategies, as there will not be enough federal funds to Commission will review and consider affordable address all housing issues, housing strategies in the upcoming year. Comment to increase modular housing units as they are Modular housing is permitted in all residential zones safe, affordable, and energy efficient, within the City. Job training programs should concentrate on jobs that The CITY STEPS Plan encourages job-training pay more than the minimum wage. activities that pay a wage at the State of Iowa's CEBA threshold (currently $12.59Lhour). Comments Received During the CITY STEPS Public Comment Period Response The Emma Goldman Clinic has maintenance needs and This information will be added to the Public sees between 5,000 - 6,000 clients per year. Facility Needs' and Public Service Needs' sections of the document. The Emma Goldman Clinic subsidized 4,708 (over This information will be added to the Public 90%) of their clients totaling $229,168. Service Needs' section of the document. Need to include information about the potential closing This information will be added to the Public of the University of Iowa Family Planning Clinic. Facility Needs' section of the document. Reference the level of service provided by Planned This information will be added to the Public Parenthood of Iowa City. Service Needs' section of the document. The ;'steps" diagram separates emergency shelter and The diagram is an illustration the City has support services, which makes it appear that emergency used since the inception of the Consolidated shelter is more important than support services. Plan in 1995 to show a progression towards Emergency housing is included in "housing" step. self-sufficiency. In Section IV, the Strategic Plan, the priorities for support services and emergency shelter are identified. Job training in the current political environment could The CITY STEPS Plan encourages job- mean training people for low wage jobs. training activities that pay a wage at the State of Iowa's CEBA threshold (currently $12.59Lhour). Does the plan account for varying degrees of self- Yes. The CITY STEPS Plan's overall is to sufficiency? support families and individuals in achieving their highest degree of self-sufficiency. A concern about senior groups not being notified Notices regarding public meetings were regarding the CITY STEPS planning process, mailed to Elder Services, Inc. and flyers were distributed to the Iowa City\Johnson County Senior Center. Senior groups such as AARP, the Heritage Area Agency on Aging and Johnson County Taskforce on Aging will be added to the mailing list. The plan does not address unmet transportation needs Language about this unmet need will be for seniors, especially for grocery shopping, included in the Public Service Needs' section of the CITY STEPS Plan. In addition, the Community and Economic Development Office has contacted Johnson County SEATS about using CDBG funds for an expansion of service. Funding the construction of new homes is not needed for Federal funds allocated through the City are households "at the highest level of eligibility income", anticipated to be used for the development of housing for all income eligible households as part of the continuum of care philosophy. Iowa City does not want to allow mobile homes. Manufactured housing is permitted in all residential zones within the Citv. City planners do not have any interest in SRO housing. City staff has consistently worked with for- profit and non-profit organizations to acquire and rehabilitate SRO units. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN FOR THE CONSOLIDATED PLAN (CITY STEPS) FOR HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT In working with communities across the country, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has realized the importance of coordinating housing programs with human services, public facilities and economic development to help cities create and maintain a livable environment particularly for their income residents. The Consolidated Plan is the planning document that outlines the partnerships between housing providers, human service agencies, neighborhoods and the business community for addressing specific community needs. The Consolidated Plan will document housing and community development needs, and identify strategies to meet those needs in Iowa City. The process encourages citizens to participate especially the low-income residents who benefit directly from the activities being undertaken as identified in the Consolidated Plan. The Citizen Participation Plan encourages citizens to participate in the consolidated planning process from the outset. It outlines the procedures for community approval of the Consolidated Plan; for addressing concerns, objections and complaints, and for making amendments to the plan after approval. This document is designed to meet HUD's basic requirements for citizen participation in preparing the Consolidated Plan. The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) will play a key role in the citizen participation process. The Commission will hold public hearings, collect comments, and provide forums for annual review of the plan. In addition, other groups, such as, the Local Homeless Coordinating Board will be asked to participate. I. GENERAL CITIZEN PARTICIPATION ACTIVITIES Citizens will be made aware of and encouraged to participate in the annual activities related to the development of the Consolidated Plan, substantial amendments, the Annual Action Plan, and the performance report. Notification will be made through the City's web site, official postings, legal notices, the media, mailings, City Cable Channel 4, and the Iowa City Housing Authority newsletter as appropriate. Notice of public hearings and meetings regarding the Consolidated Plan will be published 4-10 days prior to the public/hearing meeting with date, time, place, and topic in newspaper(s) of general circulation. In addition, news releases will be sent out via the City's web site to citizens and the press. In circumstances where funding opportunities are targeted by the City for specific neighborhood-wide projects (e.g. targeted area rehabilitation, or services provided by a community based development organization). Neighborhood meetings will be held to provide specific information about the plan as appropriate. These meetings will be held at convenient locations and times to allow broad participation of all residents who might me affected. The meetings will be designed to allow citizens to provide input into the development, implementation and assessment of the Consolidated Plan. Efforts will be made to involve low to moderate income persons, members of minority groups and persons with mobility, visual, and hearing impairments in the process. A. A summary of citizen's views and comments, and a summary of any comments or views not accepted and the reasons therefore, will be available to the public. 10 B. Information concerning the Consolidated Plan, will be available to the public in the Department of Planning and Community Development during regular office hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday- Friday) at City Hall, 410 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. In addition, published documents will also be available at the Iowa City Public Library, located at 123 S. Linn Street, Iowa City, Iowa 52240. II. SPECIAL ACCOMODATIONS A. Non-English speaking persons or persons with hearing impairments can be provided an interpreter at public/hearings and meetings, if a request is made at least seven (7) days prior to the scheduled meeting date. B. Language Line, an over-the-phone interpreter service, has been created to translate English into more than 140 languages and is available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week. C. Special accommodations will be made available for persons with physical disabilities at public/hearings and meetings, if request is made at least (7) days prior to the scheduled meeting date. Meetings will always be held at an accessible site. III. CONSOLIDATED PLAN A. The Housing and Community Development Commission will hold at least one meeting annually to provide information regarding the Consolidated Plan, priorities, and proposed activities to citizens and to allow citizen input regarding the City's community development needs. Citizens may propose amendments to the Consolidated Plan. B. Following citizen input, a Consolidated Plan summary will be published prior to the City Council public hearing and "draft" copies of the plan will be available for review. Publication will consist of a summary of the proposed Consolidated Plan in one or more newspapers and copies of the proposed plan will be available at the Iowa City Public Library and the Planning and Community Development Department office. The summary will include a list of locations where copies of the entire plan may be examined. C. Before the Consolidated Plan is adopted, information will be made available through the above- described channels, on the amount of assistance the jurisdiction expects to receive and the range of eligible activities that may be undertaken. D. Technical assistance will be provided by the Community and Economic Development Division staff to citizen commissions, neighborhood groups and groups representative of persons of Low and Moderate incomes that request such assistance in developing proposals for projects to be funded through the programs covered by the Consolidated Plan. E. Citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties will be notified of the availability of the Consolidated Plan as proposed. A thirty (30) day public comment period will be provided for citizens to comment on the plan and/or amendments that are to be submitted to HUD before its adoption by the City Council. F. HCDC will also make a recommendation on the Consolidated Plan and amendments to the City Council. HCDC meetings are open to the public. 11 G. Prior to the adoption of the Consolidated Plan, or substantial amendments, the City Council will hold a public hearing. After consideration of citizen comments on the proposed Consolidated Plan or amendments, the action(s) will be approved by the City Council. H. Comments and/or questions about the Consolidated Plan, priorities, and funding allocations received in writing or orally at public hearings by the HCDC, the City Council, or City staff will be answered when presented, when applicable. Correspondence received by mail will be answered in a timely, substantive, and responsive manner within a 15 day period after it is received. I. Comments or views of citizens (or units of local government) received in writing, or orally at the public hearings will be considered in preparing or approving the Consolidated Plan. IV. ANNUAL ACTION PLAN A. The City will notify the public regarding the availability of funds to be allocated within the Annual Action Plan (generally in December of each year). Applications for these funds will be available to the public. B. HCDC will hold at least 2 public meetings to review applications for funding allocated within the Annual Action Plan. C. At the time an Annual Action Plan is prepared, the City will notify the public as to the proposed projects, organizations responsible for implementation of projects, project location (if known), and project financial information that includes amount of CDBG and/or HOME funds being awarded. D. Citizens, public agencies, and other interested parties will be notified of the availability of the Action Plan as proposed and will be given thirty (30) days to comment on the plan, or amendments that are to be submitted to HUD, before its adoption by the City Council. E. City Council public hearing will be held to obtain comments on the proposed Action Plan prior to its adoption. F. After consideration of citizen comments at a public hearing the Annual Action Plan that describes the program activities for the current year will be approved by the City Council (generally in May of each year). V. CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER) A. Public notice of the availability of the CAPER and the HCDC public hearing will be published in a newspaper of general circulation. B. The CAPER will be made available for public comment for a period of at least fifteen (15) days prior to its approval by HCDC. C. The HCDC will hold a public hearing to review program performance for the previous year as part of its review of the CAPER and consider citizen comments prior to approving the CAPER. VI. PLAN AMENDMENTS Citizens shall be provided reasonable notice and opportunity to comment, as described here in, on any proposed "substantial change" and/or amendment in the Consolidated Plan. An amendment to 12 the Consolidated Plan or Annual Action Plan must occur whenever one of the following actions are taken: A. To add, delete, or substantially change any part of the plan; not including technical revisions (e.g. typographical errors); B. To make a substantial change in the priorities or a change in the method of distribution of funds; C. To carry out an activity, using funds from any program covered by the Consolidated Plan (including program income), not previously described in the action plan; or D. To substantially change the purpose, scope, location, or beneficiaries of an activity. A "substantial change" includes: Change in Purpose- if any activity changes with respect to the objectives as originally described in the Consolidated Plan; Change in Scope- if the scale and/or nature of the activity changes to the extent that there is a significant increase or decrease in funds budgeted for the activity. The change in scope threshold is as follows: 1. For activities with an original allocation of $50,000 or more, an amendment to the applicable Annual Action Plan is required if the change in scope exceeds $50,000 or 25% of the original budget allocation. 2. For activities with an original allocation of less than $50,000, an amendment to the applicable Annual Action Plan may be approved administratively by the City Manager if the change of the scope exceeds 25% of the original allocation. The Community and Economic Development Coordinator may approve other minor changes in scope (less than 25% of the original allocation). Change in Location- if the originally approved project is "neighborhood specific" or in a designated urban revitalization area (e.g. elimination of slum and blight) and the project location is changed to an area outside of its census tract; and Change in Beneficiaries- if the number of Low to Moderate Income persons or number of units being assisted decreases by 25% or more. CONSULTATION The City will consult with public and private agencies providing health services, social services, and housing assistance during the preparation of the Consolidated Plan. Specifically, the City will consult with: · State or local health and child welfare agencies with respect to lead based paint hazards. · Adjacent local governments regarding housing and community development needs. 13 VII. CONTACT INFORMATION Consolidated Plan, contact Steven Nasby, Coordinator, Community and Economic Development (319) 356-5230 Special Accommodations, contact Stephen Long, Planner, Community and Economic Development (319) 356-5230 Human Rights/Civil Rights, contact Heather Shank, Coordinator, (319) 356-5022 Official public records, contact the City Clerk' s Office, (319) 356-5041 14 II. Housing and Homeless Needs Assessment II.A GeneralEstimated Housing Needs Affordable housing is one of the primary concerns for the continued health of the community. According to published data from the Iowa City Area Association of Realtors (first quarter 2004) the median price of a single-family home is $151,500. This ranks Iowa City among the most costly single- family housing markets in the state of Iowa, but our market is comparable to other cities in Johnson County. However, the housing cost, when viewed along with the increases in income levels, indicates that the cost of housing in Iowa City is somewhat stabilizing. Compared regionally or nationally Iowa still has a relatively low overall housing cost. Data presented in the The Cost of Living Chart in Section 3: Housing Market Analysis shows that Iowa City is more affordable when compared to other college communities or larger metro areas. 1. Source of Data Data from this section comes from the 2000 U.S. Census for the City of Iowa City. Additional information is from other reliable sources, such as local agency reports and surveys. A majority of the housing information comes from the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA), a 2003 housing study conducted by Heather MacDonald, professor in the graduate program of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Iowa. Some information (projections and forecasting of housing development and needs for Iowa City through 2010) has also been retained from the 1998 Housing Market Analysis performed by Maxfield Research, Inc, for the Iowa City Metro Area. Where possible, updated information has been included to provide an accurate picture of the City's markets and needs. The information included within this document is current through July 2004. 2. Consultation with Social Service Agencies and Other Entities The City of Iowa City held a series of public meetings in July 2004 to gather citizen input for the Consolidated Plan. Hundreds of flyers were mailed and delivered to social service organizations to solicit input from them and their clients. Participants of these meetings included representatives from local social service agencies, businesspersons and the general public. Other entities, such as the local government, were contacted and provided information regarding the development of the Consolidated Plan. Information gathered from these meetings and other data will guide the City in setting strategies and priorities. 3. Housing Needs of Persons with HIV/AIDS and Their Families Housing needs of persons with HIV/AIDS were not specifically detailed during the citizen participation process. However, this group was encouraged to participate in the public meetings. Some recent data exists to help the City with the preparation of this Consolidated Plan. In September 2002, the Southeast Iowa HIV CARE Consortium (SEIA) conducted a "Needs Assessment" survey. The goal of the survey was to collect information to identify and prioritize service needs and develop strategies to address them. The results of the "Needs Assessment" survey stated that in terms of People Living With HIV (PLWH) 30 (46.2%) of the 65 clients who responded to expenses for which they were unable to pay sometime during the previous year (2001) said they were unable to pay rent. The ability to pay rent ranked 3rd in this survey while 29 (48.3%) of the 60 who responded said they were unable to pay utilities (phone, water, electric) which ranked 2nd. Thirty-two (54.2%) of the 59 clients who responded to said they could not afford recreation which ranked 1st. Other expenses the PLWH said that they were unable to pay included food, clothing, transportation, medicine, and doctor visits. The survey also stated the educational service most frequently used was for medical treatments, followed by living with HIV, entitlement programs, HIV/AIDS prevention, HIV/AIDS disease 16 progression, and employment. Additionally, the educational services that were needed, but were unable to be found in the community, ranked 1st with PLWH at 9.5%. For supportive services used during the previous year 27 (42.2%) of the 64 clients who responded ranked mental health counseling 1st. Psychiatric services ranked 2nd while Living with HIV ranking third. Other ranked supportive services included, spiritual counseling, support groups, stress reduction, substance counseling/treatment, mentor/peer support program, grief counseling, and counseling for discordant couples. Supportive services that were needed, but unable to be found included mentor/peer support programs which ranked 1st on the list at 14.1%. II.B HOUSING NEEDS ASSESSMENT Iowa City experienced a population increase of 4.2% between 1990-2000 according to the Census statistics. This increase, while not significant has increased the pressures on the housing market as it responds to meet the housing needs caused by the previous decade's growth. The Iowa City housing market has responded to these pressures by increasing production. From 1990-2000 the number of housing units increased from 22,464 to 26, 076. This is a 16% increase in the number of housing units. This increase in production is significant as the number of housing units being built is in excess of population growth. Due to this level of production the vacancy rates have started to rise. However, the size of households has been decreasing, which increases the demand for additional units. This demand for housing along with making up for "pent up" demand has kept vacancy rates in check. In Table II. 1, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) report shows the needs of low-income persons and was generated for the City of Iowa City from 2000 Census data. The Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) provides 1,306 units of rental housing through its programs (Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program). These units supported by the ICHA are not included in the CHAS information in Table II. 1 because these households pay only 30% of their income for rent and the rental units they occupy do not have housing problems as defined below. The ICHA continuously monitors its housing to ensure and maintain good living condition. Households with "housing problems" are those which: 1) Occupy units lacking complete kitchen and bathroom; or 2) Occupy an overcrowded unit (more than one person per room); or 3) Are considered cost burdened (where housing costs, including utilities, exceed 30% of gross income whereas housing costs of 50% or more is considered a severe cost burden). The most common "housing problem" is a household being "cost-burdened." Cost burdened households comprise approximately 84% of all households reporting "housing problems." Data in Table II. 1 is from the 2000 Census which shows that the total housing needs in Iowa City are as follows: · 7,303 renter households with housing problems (1,006 elderly, small, or large related households and 6,297 other households). · 1,966 owner-occupied households with housing problems. 17 Table II. 1 details needs by income, size of household, elderly needs and type of housing problems. The following section describes the needs of both rental and owner-occupied households by income group. Renters In 2000, rental units accounted for approximately 54% (13,488 units) of the total housing market. This shows an increase of 11% (1,354 units) since 1990. Also, according to Table II. 1, of the low- income renter households (10,674). The vast majority (74.2%) or 7, 925 are non-elderly, and are not related. This indicates that about two-thirds of all low-income rental households may include students or other unrelated persons. Excluding the "other households", there are still 2,749 low- income rental households who may be identified as elderly or are related. Of this group, 43% have some type of housing problem. The data show that there are approximately 1,006 low-income elderly or related renter households paying more than 30% of their income for housing. In addition there are 1,213 households receiving rental assistance through the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA). According to HUD, in order for low-income households to maintain a decent standard of living it is essential that they not spend more than 30% of their gross income on housing expenses. This is the standard that the City also recognizes as "affordable" when referring to housing cost. Currently, the ICHA owns 88 units of scattered-site Public Housing rental units that are managed by the Iowa City Housing Authority in Iowa City (ICHA). As of June 2004, the estimated wait for assistance for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing programs operated by the ICHA was 2-years. There are 1,667 families waiting for HCV assistance and 1,109 families waiting for Public Housing. 18 Table II.I SOCDS CHAS Data: Housing Problems Output for All Households Name of Jurisdiction: Source of Data: Data Current as of: Iowa City (CDBG), Iowa CHAS Data Book 2000 Renters Owners Elderly Small Large All Elderly Small Related Large All Related Total Total (1 & 2 Related Related Total (1 & 2 (2 to 4 (5 or more Other Owners Households Household by Type, Income, members) (2 to 4 (5 or more Other Renters members) members) & Housing Problem members) members) members) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H) (I) (J) (K) 1. Household Income<= 50% MFI 419 1,210 172 6,181 7,982 456 320 60 349 1,185 9,167 2. Household Income<=30% MFI 273 649 84 4,029 5,035 140 157 4 180 481 5,516 3. % with any housing problems 34.8 80.7 100.0 88.4 84.7 67.1 85.4 100.0 90.0 81.9 84.5 4. % Cost Burden >30% 34.8 80.1 88.1 87.2 83.5 67.1 85.4 100.0 90.0 81.9 83.3 5. % Cost Burden >50% 33.3 64.6 71.4 74.9 71.2 35.7 70.1 100.0 66.1 58.8 70.2 6. Household Income >30to<=50% MFI 146 561 88 2,152 2,947 316 163 56 169 704 3,651 7. % with any housing problems 43.2 66.0 88.6 75.7 72.7 34.5 75.5 85.7 52.7 52.4 68.7 8. % Cost Burden >30% 43.2 66.0 68.2 73.7 70.5 34.5 75.5 85.7 50.3 51.8 66.9 9. % Cost Burden >50% 26.7 11.1 11.4 18.4 17.2 15.8 58.3 0.0 13.0 23.7 18.4 10. Household Income >50 to <=80% 139 749 60 1,744 2,692 585 695 70 467 1,817 4,509 MFI 11.% with any housing problems 34.5 21.1 63.3 25.6 25.7 13.0 41.7 45.7 51.6 35.2 29.5 12.% Cost Burden >30% 34.5 10.7 23.3 25.2 21.6 13.0 39.7 28.6 50.7 33.5 26.4 13. % Cost Burden >50% 17.3 1.3 0.0 2.8 3.1 1.4 3.3 0.0 12.0 4.8 3.8 o 14. Household Income >80~/o MFI 228 790 43 1,544 2,605 1,527 4,785 758 1,491 8,561 11,166 15.% with any housing problems 23.2 5.6 23.3 3.1 6.0 3.1 5.5 12.7 6.9 6.0 6.0 16.% Cost Burden >30% 23.2 2.5 0.0 1.6 3.7 2.8 5.2 10.8 6.6 5.5 5.1 17. % Cost Burden >50% 12.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.1 0.0 0.2 1.3 0.0 0.2 0.4 18. TotaIHouseholds 786 2,749 275 9,469 13,279 2,568 5,800 888 2,307 11,563 24,842 19. % with any housing problems 33.0 39.9 76.4 60.1 54.6 12.7 14.0 20.3 25.8 16.5 36.9 20. % Cost Burden >30 33.0 36.0 53.8 58.7 52.4 12.5 13.5 17.3 25.3 15.9 35.4 21. % Cost Burden >50 23.3 17.9 25.5 36.6 31.7 4.2 4.1 1.6 8.5 4.8 19.2 Definitions: Any housing problems: cost burden greater than 30% of income and/or overcrowding and/or without complete kitchen or plumbing facilities. Other housing problems: overcrowding (1.01 or more persons per room) and/or without complete kitchen or plumbing facilities. Elderly households: 1 or 2 person household, either person 62 years old or older. Renter: Data do not include renters living on boats, RVs or vans. This excludes approximately 25,000 households nationwide. Cost Burden: Cost burden is the fraction of a household's total gross income spent on housing costs. For renters, housing costs include rent paid by the tenant plus utilities. For owners, housing costs include mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, and utilities. Source: 1 HUD Special Tabulations 2000 (CHAS Data Book) Tenant-based rent assistance programs seem to provide great flexibility regarding housing type, location, and access to the larger private sector rental market. Tenant-based assistance programs are available through Housing Choice Voucher and HOME Programs. 19 For some households, the high cost of damage and utility deposit acts as a barrier for low-income households to enter into the rental market. Currently, there are no citywide rental programs that allow deposits to be spread over a few months to ease cash flow problems among low-income households. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF), in conjunction with U.S. Bank, has a Security Deposit Loan Program that provides deposit assistance to income qualifying residents. In addition, properties associated with Successful Living, Inc and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) work with their tenants to alleviate these and other housing problems. In order to help families remain in their homes HACAP operates the Low-Income Heating and Energy Program (LIHEP) to provide limited assistance with utility payments for income qualifying individuals. In addition, there are small, private groups providing emergency assistance. a. Small Related Households (2 to 4 members) Table II. 1 shows that in 2000 there were 649 small related rental households between 0-30% of median income. Of these 81% experienced some type of housing problems, 80% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 65% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Households in the 0-30% income category have a maximum income of $21,650 (2004 HUD Income Guidelines) per year, $6,495 of which can be spent for housing costs annually (including utilities) or $541 per month. According to HUD, fair market rents are established at the 40th percentile of all rental units within a community,ViSA. Currently in Iowa City, fair market rent for a two-bedroom unit is $615 including utilities. Even the highest earning households in this income category incur a cost burden (deficit) of $183 per month in excess of the amount they can afford to pay for rent. Small Related Households (2-4 persons): Affordability Index $1,600 $1,400 [] Rent Household $1,200 Can Afford $1,000 · Fair Market Rent- $6005800 ~ ~ ~ 2bdrm $400 · Fair Market Rent- 3bdrm $200 $0 , , 30% Median 50% Median 80% Median Income Income Income ($21,650) ($36,050) ($57,500) These CHAS figures also show that there were another 561 small, related rental households between 31- 50% of the median income. Of these 66% experienced some type of housing problem, 66% had a cost burden of greater than 30% of their gross income and 11% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. According to HUD 2004 Income Guidelines, the highest income possible for households in the 31-50% range is $36,050 per year, $10,815 of which can be spent for housing costs annually or $901 per month. With fair market rent being $615 for a two-bedroom unit, households near 50% median income could afford a two-bedroom unit at fair market rent. In comparison, a household at the low end of this income range would incur a cost burden of $56. Fair market rent for a three-bedroom unit is $853. Households in this income category needing three bedrooms will incur a cost burden from $294 to $0 per month over what they can afford. 20 Data also show that there were 749 small, related rental households between 51-80% of median income. Of these (21%) experienced some type of housing problem, 11% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 1% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. The maximum income available to four person households in the 51-80% income range is $57,500 (2004 figure) per year. Of this amount $17,250 can be spent on housing costs annually or $1,437 per month. Most of these households can easily afford a rental unit in the private market without rental assistance. b. Large Related Households (5 or more members) Data from Table II. 1 show that there were 84 large related rental households between 0-30% of median income. Of these, 100% experienced some type of housing problem, 88% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 71% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Households in this income category have a maximum income between $23,350 and $28,550 (5-8 persons), with an average of $25,950. A household of this size can spend $7,785 for all housing costs annually or $648 per month. A three-bedroom unit at fair market rent is $853 per month and a four-bedroom unit is $1009 per month. Based on these figures, households of this size cannot afford units at fair market rent without substantial rental assistance. Large Related Households ($ or more persons): Affordability Index $1,200 $1,000 -- ii rnRent Household $800 / Can Afford $600 · Fair Market Rent- $400 3 bdrm $200 · Fair Market Rent- $0 4 bdrm 30% 50% 80% Median: Median: Median: Maximum Maximum Maximum Average Average Average Income Income Income ($25,950) ($43,263) ($69,000) CHAS figures also show that there were another 88 large related rental households between 31- 50% of median income. Of these 89% experienced some type of housing problem, 68% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 11% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. The households in this income category have a maximum average income $43,263. Of this figure, $12,979 can be spent on housing costs annually, which is equal to $1081 per month. Here, it is impossible to afford the cost of a four-bedroom unit at fair market rent ($1009). However, these households should be able to afford a three-bedroom unit at fair market rent ($853) without rental assistance. CHAS data also show that there were 60 large related rental households between 51-80% of median income. Of these 63% experienced some type of housing problem, 23% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and none had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Households in the 51-80% income category have an average income between $44,128 and $69,000 per year in 2004. Households at 51% median can spend $13,238 on housing costs annually or $1,103 per month. These households can afford a four-bedroom apartment without incurring a cost burden. Averaging the income of large households at 80% of median income $20,700 can be spent annually on housing costs (including utilities) or $1,715 per 21 month. These households would be able to afford a rental unit in the private market without rental assistance acquiring rental assistance. c. Elderly Households (1 and 2 members) Data show that there were 273 elderly rental households between 0-30% of median income. Of these, 35% experienced some type of housing problem, 35% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 33% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Households at the high end of the 0-30% income category have an income of $15,150 (2004 figure) per year, $4,545 of which can be spent for housing costs annually or $379 per month. Fair market rent for a one-bedroom unit is $477 (2004 figure). Comparing the figures, there is $98 per month cost burden to the households in this income category. This is a decrease of $58 from the $156 per month cost burden found in the 1999 CITY STEPS publication. Elderly Households (1 and 2 persons): Affordability Index $ ,400 $ ,200 $ ,000 / [DRent Household ;800fit Can Afford ;400;600 i [i~ ·bdrmFair Market Rent-1 ;200 · Fair Market Rent-2 $0 bdrm 80% Median 50% Median 80% Median Income Income Income ($15,150) ($28,850) ($46,000) CHAS data also show that there are another 146 elderly rental households between 31-50% of median income. Of these, 43% experience some type of housing problem, 43% have a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 27% have a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. The households in this income category have a maximum income of $27,900 (2004 figure) per year, $8,370 of which they can spend annually on housing costs or $698 per month. Fair market rent for a 1-bedroom unit $477 and $615 for a two-bedroom unit. This shows that the households near 50% median income can afford a two-bedroom unit at fair market rent. However, due in part to the large student population, apartments at fair market rent are difficult to obtain. Students tend to be able to afford more because they may live with other students in order to share housing costs. CHAS data also show that there are 139 elderly rental households between 51-80% of median income. Of these 35% experience some type of housing problem, 35% have a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 17% have a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. These households have a maximum income of $46,000 per year, $13,800 of which can be spent on housing costs annually or $1,150 per month. These households should be able to afford a rental unit in the private market without rental assistance. d. Non-Elderly Persons According to Table II.1 there were 10,674 low-income renter households (out of 13,279 occupied rental units), of these 2,749 are either elderly, small related or large related. This leaves 22 7,925 rental households that are either not related or consist of single members. Determining the exact number of single households is not possible with the information available. However, it can be assumed that the majority of these 7,925 households are made up of non-related college students. Estimates from the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College (2003) show that there are approximately 32,745 students living in Iowa City (with approximately 26,500 living in non-university rental housing). Since there are no verifiable figures on the student population housing situation, despite the assumption that the majority of them are low income, it is difficult to assess specific housing needs of non-student single member households. However, there are some general needs that are apparent. First, single persons are not eligible for Housing Choice Voucher Program rent assistance unless they are disabled or elderly. Second, the number of single persons at the local emergency shelters is significant. Data from Shelter House has shown these individuals are employed but cannot afford an efficiency rental unit at fair market for $370 per month (2003 figure). It is apparent that very low-cost rental housing is needed for these working persons living alone. In addition, rental assistance is needed for the extremely low- income households under 30% median income. Third, funding for security deposits and locating units are also problematic for this group of renters. e. Summary In 2000, compared to 1990, there were fewer elderly rental households within the 0-30% median income category who had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income. Within the small-related category there had been a slight increase in cost burden among households. In the large related category, households experiencing a cost burden increased significantly. Overall, 68% of all households within the 0-30% of median income category experienced a cost burden greater than 30%. This figure is 1% lower than that in 1990. Households within the 0-30% of median income category, who had experienced a cost burden greater than 50% of their median gross income, increased slightly among the elderly, while small related, and large related households figures compared to1990 increased significantly. Overall, 57% of all households within 0-30% of median income had a cost burden greater than 50%. This is a 10% increase from 1990. Many of the related or elderly households within the 31-50% median income range have a cost burden greater than 30% and are in the need of rental assistance. In 2000, cost burden issues among the elderly decreased, while cost burden among the small-related households increased slightly. Within the large related households there was a significantly higher percentage of those who are cost burdened. However, households within the 31-50% of median income category who had experienced a cost burden greater than 50% of their median gross income, remained constant within all three groups. Overall, 14% of all households within the 31-50% median income category experienced a cost burden greater than 50%, which was 2% lower than in 1990. In 2000, within the 51-80% median income category, there was a significant decrease in the number of cost burdened elderly, small-related, and large- related households compared to 1990. Overall, 15% of all households within the 51-80% median income category experienced a cost burden greater than 30%, which was 12% lower than 1990. Households within the 51-80% of median income category who had experienced a cost-burden greater than 50% of their median income increased significantly among the elderly households while remaining fairly constant in the small-related and large-related households in comparison to 1990. Overall, 3% of all 23 households with the 51-80% median income category experienced a cost burden greater than 50%, which was 1% higher than 1990. The primary problem low-income rental households face is being cost-burdened (i.e. paying too much of their income toward housing costs). This situation occurs due to the combination of low income and relatively expensive rental housing. While overall the total number of related and elderly households that are cost burdened has slightly decreased from 1990 to 2000 households under 30% of median income continue to have the greatest need for rental assistance. In addition, there are several other problems that have been identified for these lower income rental households. First, the problem of not being able to afford "up-front costs" (security deposits, which sometime may equal up to one or two month's rent). Second, locating an affordable rental housing often becomes a difficult task Third, there may be a need for living skills training. For instance, some low-income households may be evicted or may face the possibility of being evicted because of some problem with their landlord (late rent payments, damage to the unit, or housekeeping issues). Thus, utilizing some type of living skills training and/or intervention, households can better manage and remain in a rental unit. Finally, there were numerous comments received during the CITY STEPS citizen participation process expressing the need for more affordable rental units and the barriers caused by the expensive up-front costs (security & utility deposits) on rental units. 2. Owners In 2000, owner-occupied units made up 46% (11,714 units) of the total housing stock in Iowa City compared to 68% for Iowa and 66% nationally. According to the 2000 Census, low-income households accounted for 12% or 3,002 units of all owner-occupied units in Iowa City. Of the low- income owner-occupied units, 1,185 or 39% are elderly. The HUD data gathered does not separate the non-elderly households into small and large related categories as it does with rental housing. When homeownership opportunities arise for lower income individuals/families, it maybe for an older home that is likely to need repairs. The City's Rehabilitation Program offers assistance to first time and existing low and moderate-income homeowners. This assistance allows homeowners to make repairs on their homes through affordable loan payments and help to preserve Iowa City's housing stock. Loan payments are determined by the ability of the resident to make an additional monthly payment. However, the total housing debt cannot exceed 30% of the resident's gross monthly income. If housing rehabilitation is needed and the household is already paying 30% of their income for housing the City is able to provide these households with a Conditional Occupancy Loan that has no interest or payments due until the owner sells the home, rents the unit or moves out. This tool is very effective in assisting homeowners each year. Accessibility is also an important need addressed by the City's Rehabilitation Program. Many persons who are disabled cannot afford to make modifications to their homes. As a result of medical services and human services available in Iowa City, there are a large number of households requiring this type of assistance. Additionally, the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) operates three homeownership programs. These programs include the Section 8 Homeownership Program, the Tenant to Ownership Program, and the Affordable Dream Home Program. The ICHA has implemented all three programs in an effort to offer affordable homeownership options for low-income families, whether or not they receive rental assistance. 24 The Section 8 Homeownership Program allows Section 8 clients, currently utilizing their voucher for rental assistance, to convert that payment to mortgage assistance. Prior to converting the voucher to mortgage assistance, the family must participate in eight hours of homebuyer education provided by the ICHA. The family is then deemed mortgage ready and secures a mortgage loan from a private lender. The lender determines the loan amount and the family may purchase a unit anywhere in Johnson County. Non-disabled families may receive mortgage assistance for up to 15 years, and there is no time limit for disabled families. Since its implementation in January 2003, seven families have closed on their homes; four of those were disabled families. Two additional sales are expected to close by September 2004, one of which will be to a disabled family. The Tenant to Ownership Program allows families residing in Public Housing units to purchase their home or another City owned property. HUD recently approved selling Public Housing units to Section 8 Voucher holders. The homes are sold at the appraised value and the family must secure a mortgage loan from a private lender. In some cases the City provides necessary gap financing to lower the monthly payment to an affordable level. Since the first sale in May 1998, fourteen Public Housing units have been sold and two additional sales are pending for later this year. More than 30 single- family homes offered for sale are accessible. The Affordable Dream Home Ownership program is available for any Johnson County household under 80% of median income. Reinvesting the proceeds from the sale of Public Housing units, the City builds homes that are made available to interested persons qualifying for this program. As with the Tenant to Ownership Program, the family secures financing from local lenders and in some cases the City provides the necessary gap financing to lower the monthly payments to levels affordable to the individual households. Since it's inception in 1999, seven units have been built and sold. In addition, there are ten additional accessible units planned, with the first ground breaking in the fall of 2004. Presently there is a waiting list for these units. In order to assist potential low-income homebuyers, the ICHA has partnered with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and 5 local lenders to help educate potential homebuyers about homeownership opportunities (i.e. budgeting, credit worthiness, etc) through financial education workshops, including "Money Smart." In addition to the above homeownership programs there are a number of programs (including CDBG and HOME) that can be used for homeownership opportunities. The newest program, the American Dream Down Payment Initiative (ADDI), a HOME based program is targeted to providing down payment assistance to low-income first-time homebuyers. ADDI funds can also be used toward housing rehabilitation. According to HUD, ADDI will enable these first-time homebuyers to achieve the personal and financial benefits of homeownership. If Iowa City becomes a recipient of ADDI funds; these funds will be used to supplement affordable homeownership programs. In order to buy a home, many low-income households work with the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA). The Iowa Finance Authority administers two housing programs: FirstHome and FirstHome Plus. The FirstHome program (IFA's First-Time Home Buyer Mortgage Loan Program) may be used to finance mortgages on existing or new single-family home purchases. This includes, condominium units, modular and manufactured homes that have permanent foundations on owned land or on rented land with a long-term lease. There are no origination fees or discount points given in connection with the FirstHome loan. Participating lenders may only charge allowable costs. FirstHome loans may not be used to refinance existing mortgages. 25 The FirstHome Plus program is designed to assist first time homebuyers or individuals who have not owned a home in the past three years with closing costs, down payment assistance, and required repairs. The use of this program alleviates or at least reduces one of the biggest concerns for first time homebuyers who are able to make housing payments, but may not necessarily have the financial resources to pay for closing costs. The IFA will pay a maximum of $1,000 ($2,500 in targeted areas) toward assistance for closing costs, down payment assistance and/or required repairs. However, periodically the IFA will offer specials. For instance, over the last 3-5 months they offered a maximum of $2,040 in non-targeted areas instead of $1,000. In fiscal year 2004, the IFA provided down payment assistance totaling $129,274, 527 for 1,811 families. In Johnson County, there were a total of 79 families assisted at a total dollar amount of $8,262,494. Out of those 79 families, 47 qualified for the "plus" grant and that amount totaled $65,564. The FirstHome Plus program can only be used in conjunction with the FirstHome program and annual household income cannot exceed $44,640. Although these programs have been encouraging they have not significantly impacted Iowa City's housing market. Thus, households have turned to other housing options. For instance, some purchase manufactured homes. Manufactured homes are some of the lower cost homes to purchase in Iowa City. At present, there are approximately, 1,058 mobile homes in Iowa City. This figure is 242 (or 19%) fewer mobile homes in Iowa City since 1990's. However, a new manufactured home park, Saddlebrook, has been opened. It contains 139 manufactured homes, as well as, condominiums and town homes. Saddlebrook has 80 more manufactured homes that have been platted and approved. Adjacent areas in Johnson County contain several mobile home parks and the one new park (Lake Ridge). In addition, to these Iowa City parks, the cities of North Liberty and Coralville also have accommodations for manufactured housing. In Iowa City developers and homebuilders have concentrated on building single-family homes in the $150,000 to $375,000 price range. According to the 2003 single-family building permit statistics, all of the new homes fell in this category. In last 2 years (2002 and 2003) there have been 341 single- family homes built in Iowa City. As of July 2004, there had been 90 single-family homes built. However, at a median price of over $150,000, many of these homes are not affordable to households with incomes under 80% of median. Multi-family units that are made available "For Sale" comprise the majority of the "starter housing" opportunities. The Maxfield Study stated that there is a need to build homes $70,000 to $100,000 range, or lower, that are affordable to households between 50-80% of median income. To support this housing need, higher density and condominium type developments have been constructed. a. Small Related Households (2-4 members) Table II.1 shows that in 2000 there were 157 owner-occupied households between 0-30% of median income. Of these, 85% had some type of housing problem, 85% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 70% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Because of a relatively low -income it is not surprising that a great portion of the households in this category experience cost burden or severe cost burden. Figures also show that there were 163 households between 31-50% of median income. Of these, 76% experienced some type of housing problem, 76% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 58% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Table II.1 shows that there were 695 owner-occupied households between 51-80% of median income. Of these, 42% experienced some type of housing problem, 40% had a cost burden 26 greater than 30% of their gross income and 3% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. b. Large Related Households (5 or more members) Table II. 1 shows that in 2000 there were only 4 owner-occupied households between 0-30% of median income. Of these, all of them had some type of housing problem, consisting of a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Due to the expense of maintaining a large household and a relatively low -income it is not surprising that all of the households in this category experience severe cost burden. Figures also show that there were 56 households between 31-50% of median income. Of these, 86% experienced some type of housing problem and 86% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income. However, none of the households in this category had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Table II. 1 also shows that there were 70 owner-occupied households between 51-80% of median income. Of these, 46% experienced some type of housing problem, and 29% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income. However, none of the households in this category had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. c. Elderly Households (1 and 2 members) Table II.1 shows that in 2000 there were 140 owner-occupied households between 0-30% of median income. Of these, 67% had some type of housing problem, 67% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 36% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Because of a relatively low -income or fixed income a large portion of the households in this category experience cost burden or severe cost burden. CHAS figures also show that there were 316 households between 31-50% of median income. Of these, 35% experienced some type of housing problem, 35% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 16% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. Table II.1 shows that there were 585 owner-occupied households between 51-80% of median income. Of these, 13% experienced some type of housing problem, 13% had a cost burden greater than 30% of their gross income and 1% had a cost burden greater than 50% of their gross income. d. Non-Elderly Single Persons The number of single owners was not able to be determined with the limited data available. Given the cost of single family housing a single-wage earning household would need an income of 120% of median income to afford a median priced home in Iowa City, however, condos or other multi-family housing types may be affordable. If this household were able to purchase a home they would probably not qualify for any housing assistance programs because their income would be too high. As such, other types of homeownership (multi-family, zero lot lines or duplexes) are likely to be the housing types affordable to this group. 27 e. Summary In 2000, the cost burden for 0-30% median income owner-occupied households increased slightly within all household categories when compared to 1990 figures. However, the total number of cost burdened owner-occupied households decreased significantly in 2000. It is important to note, CHAS data reported for owners who experienced some type of cost burden in 2000 is slightly different then data reported in 1990. In 2000, households are reported as elderly, small related, and large-related. There is also a category identified as 'all other', which includes singles, students, and non-related households. However, this summary does not place emphasis on the 'all other' category. In 1990, the CHAS report included two categories, elderly and "all other." Therefore, comparisons made regarding cost burden in 1990 and 2000 may be difficult to analyze for each household category. According to the 2000 CHAS report, the percentage of owners that are 0-30% of median income that have a cost burden greater than 50% is significantly higher than in 1990. However, the number of households in each income category decreased in 2000. Within the 31-50% median income category, the percentage of elderly households experiencing a cost burden greater than 30% of their median income doubled in 2000. In all other categories there was an increase in cost burden, but the number of households decreased. Overall, 53% of all owner households within the 31-50% median income category had a cost burden greater than 30%. Owner households within the 31-50% median income category with a cost burden greater than 50% increased significantly in the small-related household category. In 1990 there were no elderly households experiencing a cost burden greater than 50%. In 2000, 16% of the elderly had experienced a cost burden greater than 50%. Overall, 27% of all 31-50% median income households had a cost burden greater than 50%. This is double the 1990 figure. In 2000, within the 51-80% median income category, the elderly household experiencing a cost burden greater than 30% increased slightly, while all other categories remained constant. The small-related owner households in the 51-80% of median income category, experiencing a cost burden greater than 50% were among the only household type experiencing a severe cost burden. Only 1% of the elderly households in this category experienced a cost burden greater than 50%. In 1990, none of the elderly households had a cost burden greater than 50%. Overall, less than 1% of all 51-80% median income owner households had a cost burden greater than 50% in both 1990 and 2000. As with rental households, one of the greatest problems facing homeowners is the rising cost of housing (e.g. maintenance, taxes and insurance). Maintenance and upkeep of homes tends to be another problem found particularly troublesome for homeowners with very low or low income. These households may be elderly persons on a fixed income that cannot afford maintenance and major repairs, or they may be families that have been able to purchase an older home but often cannot afford maintenance expenses. In either case, housing rehabilitation and accessibility are significant concerns, both in order to sustain the housing stock and to enable homeowners to remain in their homes. Without some financial assistance homeownership opportunities for low-income persons are not prevalent in Iowa City. Some barriers could be due to cost and need for repair of older properties. To address the housing continuum there is a need for programs designed to assist low-income households in purchasing and maintaining owner-occupied housing. There are some affordable housing programs offered by local financial institutions and the Iowa Finance Authority. Many low-income families are taking advantage of those programs. The ICHA also 28 has three homeownership programs (mentioned earlier in this section) to assist low-income families in becoming homeowners. There are also a host of Homebuyer Educational Seminars throughout the year expressing strong interest in building homeownership opportunities. Finally, there were several comments received during the CITY STEPS citizen participation process expressing the need for more affordable homeownership opportunities. 3. Elderly Persons See renters and owners sections above 4. Persons with HIV/AIDS and Their Families The Johnson County Department of Health stated that there are 104 reported AIDS cases (cumulatively) in Johnson County from February 1983 through March 2004. Also, as of March 2004 there were 93 individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Johnson County In September 2002, the Southeast Iowa HIV CARE Consortium (SEIA) conducted a "Needs Assessment" survey. The goal of the survey was to collect information to identify and prioritize service needs and develop strategies to address them. The results of the "Needs Assessment" survey stated that in terms of People Living With HIV (PLWH) 30 (46.2%) of the 65 clients who responded to expenses for which they were unable to pay sometime during the previous year (2001) said they were unable to pay rent. The ability to pay rent ranked 3rd while 29 (48.3%) of the 60 who responded said they were unable to pay utilities (phone, water, electric) which ranked 2nd. Thirty-two (54.2%) of the 59 clients who responded to said they could not afford recreational activities ranked this 1st. Other expenses the PLWH said that they were unable to pay included food, clothing, transportation, medicine, and doctor visits. The survey also stated the educational service most frequently used was for medical treatments, followed by living with HIV, entitlement programs, HIV/AIDS prevention, HIV/AIDS disease progression, and employment. For supportive services used during the previous year 27 (42.2%) of the 64 clients who responded ranked mental health counseling 1st. Psychiatric services ranked 2nd while Living with HIV ranking third. Other ranked supportive services included, spiritual counseling, support groups, stress reduction, substance counseling/treatment, mentor/peer support program, grief counseling, and counseling for discordant couples. 5. Persons with Disabilities Iowa City's excellent services, medical facilities, and presence of the University of Iowa results in persons with special needs relocating to the community. Because of this reason, the need for housing and supportive services in the area is continuous. Complete data on the number of non-homeless persons who require supportive housing is not readily available. The data that is readily available through the 2000 Census and locally generated data and may be based upon estimates. The data for each of the non-special needs populations in Iowa City are as follows in Table II.2. 29 Table 11.2 Special Need Category Estimated Number of Persons in Need of Supportive Housing 1. Elderly 2. Frail Elderly (ages 85 and older) 3. Developmentally Disabled 4. Mentally Disabled 5. Physically Disabled 6. Persons with Alcohol/Other Drug Addictions 7. Persons with AIDS/Related Disorders 8. Other (Specify) N/A An inventory of accessible and adaptable rental units has been compiled and is available from the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) or Housing Inspection Services (HIS). As of July 2004 there are 836 units available citywide. The number does not include the number of ICHA units or owner- occupied or rental units that are accessible or adaptable, group homes or human service agency facilities, or new units that are under construction. Each year, the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program receive requests and complete projects for accessibility modifications or repairs allowing lower income households to remain in their housing unit. Approximately 40-50 calls are received annually from lower income families needing accessibility modifications or improvements. These programs offer a low cost, effective method of meeting the needs of special needs households. 6. Discussions of Cost Burden and Severe Cost Burden HUD defines cost burden as a household paying more than 30% of its gross income for housing costs including utilities, and a severe cost burden as a household paying more than 30% of its gross income for housing costs including utilities, and a severe cost burden as a household paying more than 50% of its gross income for housing costs including utilities. On page 15, HUD Table II.1 shows that there were 10,674 low-income rental households and 3,002 low-income owner-occupied households in Iowa City that were cost burdened. Table II.3 shows that the number of low-income renter households with a cost burden or severe cost burden was 1,331 or 13%. It also shows 1,284 or 43% low-income homeowners who had a cost burden greater or severe cost burden. The following table shows households by tenure and income level, who have a cost burden or severe cost burden. Table II.3 Renter Households Income Level Cost Burden Severe Cost Burden Total 0-30% Median Income 689 572 1,261 31-50% Median Income 496 111 607 51-80% Median Income 146 31 177 Total 1,331 714 2,045 Source: HUD Office of Community Planning and Development, CHAS Report, 2000 Census Owner-Occupied Households Income Level Cost Burden Severe Cost Burden Total 0-30% Median Income 627 560 1,187 31-50% Median Income 283 145 428 51-80% Median Income 374 27 401 Total 1,284 732 2,016 Source: HUD Office of Community Planning and Development, CHAS Report, 2000 Census 30 Overall, small, related rental households and non-elderly homeowners are the two groups with the highest incidences of cost burden and severe cost burden, especially within the 0-30% and 31-50% median income categories. This is supported by the fact that 74% of households receiving Section 8 assistance, reside in units that two bedrooms or smaller. This percentage is consistent with the figures in the 2001-2006 CITY STEPS document. Fair market rents have remained fairly constant at an overall increase between 8.2% to 8.5% (for the various sizes of the units) from 1998 to 2003, for an average of 1.67% annually. Market rents have risen by an average of 3.8% over the same time period. According to HUD, median income for a family of four between 1998-2003 has increased by 30% or $16,200 for an average of 6.0% annually. This data may show the rationale for the slight decrease in the number of cost-burdened households in 2000 compared to 1990 since median income rose at a greater rate than rental costs. 7. Overcrowding Based on the 2000 Census figures, overcrowding is slightly less of a problem than it was in 1990. The number of persons per unit has decreased in rental units from 2.1 persons per unit in 1990 to 2.02 persons per unit in 2000. Units that are most likely to be overcrowded are due to larger families and students who are sharing living space to cut housing costs. Other overcrowded units may house very low-income persons who are doubling up. 8. Substandard Housing Iowa City is fortunate to have an active code enforcement policy, especially for rental units. Housing and Inspection Services (HIS) conduct approximately 8,800 inspections annually, including Section 8 housing assistance inspections. The vast majority of these inspections are done on rental properties. Multi-family units are inspected every two years and single-family and duplexes are inspected every three years. HIS inspections traditionally are not involved with inspecting owner- occupied units except on a complaint basis. For the purpose of this document, Iowa City defines substandard housing as" a unit of real property which has one or more major code violations, and/or threatens a household's safety or welfare." The majority of the units that would be considered substandard are owner-occupied units, because they tend to be older and not routinely inspected like rental units once every other year. However, due to the strong housing market the City continues to have a very low percentage of housing units not suitable for rehabilitation. According to the 2000 Census, there are 11,714 owner-occupied housing units with 5,483 or 47% of them being constructed before 1970. Experience with our Housing Rehabilitation Program indicates that when a unit is 15-20 years in age some aspect of the housing unit begins to deteriorate (i.e. furnace, roof, etc.) due to deferred maintenance. A number of current applications for rehabilitation assistance have come from homeowners whose homes were built in the mid-1970's. Also, approximately 17,000 housing units (rental and owner-occupied) were built before many energy efficiency measures and codes went into effect around 1976. In order to save energy and therefore reduce costs for low-income homeowners, there are several organizations and a utility company that provide energy efficiency modification assistance. Energy conserving modifications include insulation, weather-stripping, energy efficient furnaces, window replacement, and other energy efficient measures and equipment. 31 The City's Housing Rehabilitation Program has been active since 1976. The rehabilitation program has helped to maintain affordable housing stock and prevent homes in need of repair from being lost. This program, on average, completes approximately 30 housing rehabilitation projects annually. Comparison to Housing Conditions for Iowa City as a Whole Housing conditions throughout the community are predominately good to excellent. There are very few structures that are in extreme disrepair. There are a few sites scattered throughout the community that need attention, most being fairly isolated. In 2000, the Community and Economic Development staff conducted a "windshield survey," an exterior housing survey to access basic housing conditions within "targeted areas" of the City. The "windshield survey" results showed that housing conditions in Iowa City were good. However, it is important to note that the homes included in the survey were located in the older parts of the community and identified as those housing units most in need of repair. Overall, Iowa City continues to steadily grow. There is new housing construction in all areas of the community. Approximately 193 new single-family and 546 rental units received permits for construction in 2003. 9. Discussion of Disproportionately Greater Need Based on Race and Ethnicity The demographics of Iowa City show that there are relatively small populations of racial or ethnic groups represented in Iowa City. Minorities make up 12.5% of the local population. a. Definition of Disproportionately Greater Need "Disproportionately greater need" is a statistical measurement of lower-income concentrations combined with concentrations of racial or ethnic groups. For the purposes of this document, an area of disproportionately greater need will be defined as having a concentration of lower income households (where at least 63% of the census tract is low or moderate income) along with the concentration of minority households (where the census tract has a population of minorities exceeding the general population total by 10% or more). b. Disproportionately Greater Need in Iowa City Map II. 1 shows only one area that meets the definition of disproportionately greater need. It is located within Census Tract 4 (immediately west of Mormon Trek Boulevard). In 1990 and 2000, when the census information was collected Census Tract 4 was not heavily developed. At present, new higher priced development is occurring in the area. Two housing developments University of Iowa married/graduate student housing and the Pheasant Ridge Apartments Complex (subsidized housing) made up a large percentage of the housing units in this tract. As such, the area shown on the map contains many students who are temporarily low income. In addition, there are a large number of condominiums and rental units, which because of their proximity to the University and hospitals are largely occupied by students. Since 2000, there continues to be new developments in this census tract, mostly with more expensive single family housing (i.e. Southwest Estates, Walnut Ridge, Galway Hills, and Wild Prairie). Given this development, this census tract may not show up as low-income or having a minority concentration in the next census. 32 10. Maxfield Research, Inc.: Housing Needs Projection As part of Iowa City's 1998 housing market analysis Maxfield Research, Inc created a housing needs projection that could be used to help track housing development and project future housing needs. The computer model analyzed housing of all types in both Iowa City and the surrounding urban area (University Heights, Coralville, and North Liberty). This table included senior housing, assisted living, home ownership and rental housing. The Maxfield study estimated that Iowa City should capture roughly seventy percent of the urban area's housing demand. Tables II.4 and II.5 shows the number and types of housing units Maxfield Research estimated Iowa City should capture and the current surplus or shortage by household type. Table II.4 Recommended Iowa City Rental Housing Development 1998-2010 1998-2005 1998-2003 Projected Future Projected Building vs. Actual Needs Demand Permits Surplus/ (2005- Issued (Deficit) 2010) Senior-Specific Housin~ Independent Subsidized 25 60 +35 35 AfJbrdable 140 75 -65 40 Market Rate 160 130 -30 80 Assisted Living 160 232 +72 70 Total Senior 485 497 +11 225 Non-Senior Rental Housing SubsM~zed 500 91 -409 230 AfJbrdable 580 0 -580 350 Market Rate 285 1,145 +960 705 Total Non-Senior Rental Housing 1,365 1,336 -29 1,285 Grand Total 1,850 1,833 -18 1,510 Source Maxfield Research; City of Iowa City Building Permits through June 30, 2004 a. Senior Housing According to Table II.4, there will be a need for 485 senior housing units by 2005. Since the completion of the Maxfield study in 1998, 264 senior specific units and 232 assisted living units have been constructed for a total of 496 units. An analysis of the data shows that the projected need for senior housing was 11 units or 102% greater than the Maxfield study's projection through 2005. Moreover, the majority of the senior housing constructed during this time frame has been assisted living units. b. Rental Market According to Maxfield, by the year 2000 there should have been 300 subsidized and 145 affordable units constructed. As of 2004, there have been 91 subsidized housing units and no affordable units. The number of subsidized housing units is only 31% of Maxfield's projection of 635 units by the year 2005. Market rate rental housing production has far outpaced the 33 projections. In this category the rate of production is 538% higher than the anticipated need. Overall, the production of rental housing (senior, subsidized, affordable and market rate) is projected to be 122% of the demand shown by Maxfield. Table II.5 Recommended Iowa City Owner-Occupied Units 1998-2010 1998-2005 1998-2003 Projected Future Projected Building vs. Actual Needs Demand Permits Surplus/ (2005- Issued (Deficit) 2010) Ownership Housing Single-family 1216 1202 - 14 825 Source Maxfield Research; City of Iowa City Building Permits through July 2004 Based on the number of permits issued since 1998 on single family, multi-family, and senior housing units, the overall demands for housing in Iowa City are being met. However, affordable housing is lagging behind. Within the owner-occupied projections, if the current rates of permits are issued holds steady the market will provide approximately 133% of Maxfield's projections for owner-occupied housing demand. Overall, the Iowa City housing market (rental and owner-occupied) has exceeded the Maxfield projection by approximately 35%. This level of production has started to impact the Iowa City housing market prices and vacancy rates. As examples, the median price of a home went down from 2003 to 2004 and the vacancy rates in rental units have risen to about 4%. Both of these market indicators show that housing may become slightly more affordable. Table II.6 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Continuum of Care Homeless Population and Subpopulations Chart Part I: Homeless Population Part 1: Homeless Total Total # Reception/Day Emergency Transitional Population Homeless Homeless Centers Shelters Housing Unsheltered (a+b+c) (a) (b) (c) (d) Families with Children 1. Number of 113 50 0 14 49 Homeless Families 2. Number of 361 147 0 44 170 Persons in Homeless Families Individuals not in Families 3. Youth and Adults 65 29 0 28 8 Total 426 176 0 72 178 (lines 2+3) 34 Part II: Subpopulations Homeless Persons with Service Needs Related to: Percentage of Total Number (sheltered) Chronically Homeless 4.5 %* 19' Severely Mentally Ill 21.4% 91 Chronic Substance Abuse 0.5% 2 Veterans 1.2% 5 Persons with HIV/AIDS 0 0 Victims of Domestic Violence 10.1% 43 *Figure includes 12 unsheltered homeless persons II.C Homeless Needs 1. Nature and Extent of Homelessness There are many reasons homeless persons or persons near homeless come to Iowa City. Expectations of higher wages, need for medical attention from one of Iowa City's three hospitals, the community's reputation for excellent social services, and the University of Iowa are some of the special features that attract people to the community. Upon arrival, however, many people encounter the realities of life in a college town. Iowa City ranks as the 2nd most expensive city in terms of housing costs in the state. Thus, homeless persons have to compete with students for the limited amount of affordable housing. Many of the available entry-level jobs are low paying, have no benefits, or are temporary. Persons who hold these low paying jobs, especially if they are heads of households, cannot reasonably afford housing costs. In addition, waiting lists for many of the community services can mean weeks, months, or even years of waiting for housing or medical assistance. The result is that many of these individuals and families arrive in Iowa City jobless, homeless, or need medical care. According to data collected by Shelter House Community Shelter and Transient Services during FY04, 11% of the 461 shelter guests served in FY04 were chronically homeless. Only 14% of those served were considered transient, not intending to remain in Iowa City. Persons who are homeless and are from Johnson County/Iowa City find themselves in a crisis for a variety of reasons. These factors are typical of the national homeless population and include job loss, mental disability, substance abuse, domestic disputes and violence, financial, medical, and social crisis from which they cannot recover. During FY04 Iowa City's three emergency shelters for homeless adults, accompanied minors and victims of domestic abuse reported serving approximately 892. These numbers are 63% lower than the 1,423 people served in FY98. The shelters for unaccompanied youth served 106 fewer youth during FY04. According to the ICHA and other social service providers the large decline in emergency shelter numbers reflect the lack of resources and vouchers available to assist those in need of housing. Therefore, individuals or families are staying 35 longer, which limits the number of people that the shelters have been able to assist over the last five years. According to a Free Lunch Program survey conducted in August 2004, 35 of 39 respondents indicated they depend on the Free Lunch Program for their largest nutritional meal of the day. Of the 35, 63% use the program at least once a week. Fifty four percent of 37 respondents indicated they attend the Free Lunch Program primarily for a nutritional meal with the remaining 46% saying they attended the program for a meal and to socialize. When asked if they utilize other meal/food supplemental opportunities in addition to the Free Lunch Program, 35 respondents indicated they use the Salvation Army, Shelter House, the Crisis Center Food Bank, and other opportunities. a. Individuals Persons who are homeless and living alone represent the largest percent of those served at Iowa City's emergency shelters. Four Oaks Youth Homes currently operates two transitional group-housing programs for accompanied youth. These facilities provide a stable and supportive environment to assist youth in crisis in remaining in school and managing the difficulties in their lives. In FY04 the transitional program served an estimated 156 youth. Four Oaks Youth Homes also operates a long-term residential facility that houses an average of 10 youth for periods 9 months-1 year. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship operates a program through a local bank, which provides homeless people money needed for a security deposit. The deposit money comes in the form of a one-year no interest loan. There is also up to $80 available for utility deposits. b. Families with Children During FY04, an estimated 1,036 individuals were served by Iowa City's emergency adult shelters; nearly 374 of these individuals were children. Shelter House Community Shelter and Transitional Services served 86 children with their parents in an environment unequipped to deal with the needs of children in crisis. While historical data are not available to support a trend in families who are homeless, the data collected for this Consolidated Plan affirm the claims of providers that there are a large number of families and children arriving at the emergency shelters each week. Records kept by local shelters suggests that as many as three families are turned away from their shelter each week due to lack of space. The Iowa City Local Homeless Coordinating Board reported that during FY04, 250 families were served by local emergency shelters, while another 20 found shelter on the pedestrian mall, under bridges, camped along the river, and lived on the streets. Women and children fleeing domestic violence is the largest segment of sheltered homeless families. In FY04 the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) sheltered 143 women with a total of 132 children. Staff limitations at DVIP restrict the capacity to 30 (women and children) at any given time. Although the facility capacity is 60, staff at DVIP states that the actual number of women needing assistance may be higher. 36 Shelter House Community Shelter and Transition Services is the fiscal agent and program manager of the Supported Training and Access to Resources (STAR) Program. The purpose of the STAR Program is to assist persons who are 18 years and older, chronically unemployed and homeless in the greater Iowa City area, to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency through employment. The STAR Program recognizes barriers to employment such as housing, mental health, substance abuse, and life skills deficits and works with the participant to decrease these inhibitors. STAR Program participants in partnership with program staff, acquire and maintain jobs consistent with their preferences, strengths, and needs. A consortium of agencies provides supportive services, training, and employment opportunities, including paid internship opportunities with local businesses and non-profit organizations so as to develop employability skills and positive, local work references. Utilizing a community counseling perspective, participants rely on program staff coordination between service providers, public entities, private businesses, and landlords. The STAR Program is a unique approach for the greater Iowa City area and offers a model for other agencies to replicate. Eighty percent of the STAR Program supportive services budget is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. A minimum required local cash match of 20% constitutes the remaining part of the budget. The program is renewed annually through the Continuum of Care process and may serve between 60 - 65 clients at any point in time. Each individual participant in the STAR Program establishes unique goals and objectives with his or her case manager. All goals and objectives fall under the following parameters: · Establish Residential Stability · Increase Skills and/or Income · Achieve Greater Self-determination · Increase access and participation to and in mainstream resources Progress and achievement are consistently recognized and measured during a clients participation in the program and finally at the point of graduation and/or exit. c. Rural Homeless The City of Iowa City and the surrounding communities have never studied the causes and conditions of rural homelessness in Johnson County. Anecdotal evidence from service providers suggests a significant problem with "doubling up" of several families in inadequate housing. Another suspected problem is the condition of the most affordable rural housing stock. Dilapidated, poorly maintained homes may be affordable in the summer, but left unattended in the winter because of expensive heating costs, driving the costs beyond affordable levels. Assessing services and support is also more difficult for those living in rural areas as public transportation is not available and travel time can be significant, especially when repeat visits to providers are needed. 37 d. Persons with Special Needs (Subpopulations) Data collected from the 2004 point-in-time count of persons who are homeless found 20% of those surveyed had special needs including mental illness (21.4%), or substance abuse with mental illness (0.5%). Anecdotal evidence from the Shelter House and DVIP suggests that on average 40% of persons using their facilities have some special needs related to mental illness, substance abuse, or medical disability. These special needs populations demand a disproportionate amount of staff time and effort to assist them in managing their needs. e. Persons Threatened with Homelessness While the point-in-time count did not collect information on those in danger of becoming homeless, this is an important group to understand as long-range plans for homeless prevention and services are made. Iowa City's Crisis Center defines the imminently homeless as those who are, "one situation from homeless," this definition is based on the realization that 95% of the clients to whom they supply economic assistance report incomes at or below the poverty level. This situation makes it highly unlikely that these clients could survive a negative economic event (e.g. job loss or medical expense). In FY04 the Crisis Center served 3,632 households in Johnson County (10,340 individuals) who fits its definition of imminently homeless. Of this number, 445 households indicated they were homeless (this includes individuals that are living temporarily with friends or family). Compared to 2000 figures, the Crisis Center has served 50% more households and individuals. Anecdotal evidence from the Shelter House suggests that as many as 36% of their clients they serve have some form of mental illness, or substance abuse, or some other form of health concerns that contribute to their homelessness. According to the Shelter House, the number of clients facing these compounded problems may be increasing and that improvements accessibility to physical and mental health could alleviate the difficulties faced by these individuals in maintaining and retaining housing. f. Homelessness by Racial and Ethnic Group During FY04 there were 452 adults sheltered in Iowa City's emergency shelters. The racial and ethnic background of those persons is as follows: Race/Ethnicity FY04 % of % Total of Sheltered Persons Iowa City Population Caucasian 57% 85.9% Black 31% 3.8% Hispanic 5 % 3.0% Native American 1% .3 % Asian 1% 5.8% Unknown or Other Race 5% 1.2% Total 100% 100% Overall, minorities represent 43% of all sheltered guests but only 14.1% overall of the population of the entire community. 38 2. Facility Needs for Homeless Populations CITY STEPS community meetings, discussions with shelter residents and service providers, and facility assessments highlighted several facility needs for Iowa City's homeless populations. The Shelter House facility is showing the strains of years of double capacity use. The current facility is a single family home that was converted for shelter use in 1984. In 1992, the facility upgraded the kitchen, office space, and fire safety measures. Additional improvements were made in 1998 and 1999 with CDBG funds. The continued renovation of facilities is a major concern for ensuring on-going functioning of this shelter. Although Shelter House is not currently focused on renovation (beyond keeping things in working condition and to code) at the existing facility they are committed to building a new facility. In summer 2003, the Shelter House received funding to acquire land for a new facility with a capacity of 60. On average, the current 29-bed facility serves 29 individuals per night. Between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. The Shelter House also serves an average of 31 individuals per day who use the facility for laundry, showering, and picking up mail and phone messages. The proposed new facility would meet the current needs of individuals and families. Building and renovation projects have already improved conditions and capacity at two of Iowa City's emergency shelters. Four Oaks Youth Homes and the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) are providing services and shelter in relatively new facilities. Private and modern rooms house clients, bathroom facilities adequately meet demand, and modern kitchens, laundry rooms, and common space with new lightly used furniture provide clean and decent environments for participants. Office space for staff is also an on going concern in both facilities. At Four Oaks Youth Homes the need for additional storage continues to be a problem for both clients and staff despite the addition of a storage unit. a. Individuals As noted in the previous section, persons who are homeless and living alone represent the largest percentage of those served in Iowa City's emergency shelters. In FY04 an estimated 472 adults were sheltered and an estimated 374 minors were also served. As mentioned before, facilities can become overcrowded especially at the Shelter House. Because an estimated 36% of their clientele have special needs relating to mental illness, substance abuse, or medical disability the demand for staff time increases and more difficult to manage. This is especially true when overcrowding conditions intensify. In addition, there is an on going debate revolving around the day shelter needs of the homeless community. The Salvation Army currently operates a facility that provides an evening meal and day shelter. While the meals do attract many to the Salvation Army, the day shelter is significantly below capacity. Questions have been raised as to whether or not location and limited services of the Salvation Army are the primary deterrents to daytime use of the Salvation Army facility. Statistics suggest that as many as 700 homeless individuals living alone could be trying to find permanent housing in the community each year. 39 b. Families with Children The Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) is the primary emergency shelter in Iowa City equipped to deal with needs of families in crisis. Limited staff capacity and the primary mission of serving women and children affected by domestic violence do not currently allow DVIP to provide shelter and services to all Iowa City homeless families with children. At the same time, the Shelter House facility is operating beyond capacity to such an extent that they can no longer accommodate all of the families who seek shelter at the facility. As a result, they have to turn people away. The evidence suggests that emergency shelter facilities need to be expanded or adapted to meet the increased demand for housing from homeless families. Transitional Housing serves as a bridge between emergency shelter and permanent housing by providing housing with supportive services to assist households toward self- sufficiency. In Iowa City transitional housing opportunities are somewhat limited for families. According to DVIP staff transitional housing opportunities are also limited for single women. "This is a huge barrier for battered women with no children who are fleeing abusive partners." The Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) provides 40 units of supported rental housing for families. HACAP states that the waiting lists for this housing can be very long, with a wait list longer than 2 years. HACAP's current waiting list contains 42 eligible families, with numbers increasing all the time. As such, HACAP is working to provide more transitional housing opportunities. c. Persons with Special Needs (Subpopulations) The general trend in providing care and services to persons with special needs is toward non-facility-based outpatient, independent living services. Housing for persons with mental illness who are leaving the hospital or extensive care setting is an important part of continuum of care that leads to successful independent living programs. This particularly vulnerable population does not manage well independently or in shelters, where failure and repeat hospitalization can become cyclical. Hillcrest Family Services currently provides a 5-unit transitional group home that accommodates adults with serious mental illness. At this facility, emphasis is placed on skill building and future re- entry into the community. In 2003, Triumph Consulting Inc conducted a Needs Assessment survey on behalf of the Johnson County Mental Health/Developmental Disability Services (MH/DD) agency. The purpose of the assessment was to analyze and better understand the mental health issues, identify gaps in service delivery, establish priorities for future programming and support the Board of Supervisor's strategic planning process. The results of the assessment verified that the Johnson County MH/DD agency will continue to have many challenges. The need for additional residential options was viewed as a priority for both long-term placement and for respite care. There is currently a need for a facility that is located between inpatient hospitalization and Supported Community Living (SCL). 40 According to the Needs Assessment report, the need for additional housing options is "further exasperated by landlords who will not accept Section 8 renters. In short there is a definite need for a seamless delivery system that is not fragmented." The research confirms that there are several unmet needs in the Johnson County area. For consumers and families of the Johnson County MH/DD the most critical unmet needs are: 1) Assistance with medical care; 2) Assistance with education or skills training; 3) Assistance with payments for medication; 4) Assistance with getting and keeping a job; and 5) Assistance with household expenses (rent, food, utilities, etc.) Recommendations from the Needs Assessment indicated a need for a new facility to provide greater workflow efficiencies and enhance accessibility for individuals served by the Johnson County Mental Health agency. In addition, the barriers to treatment, which includes, transportation, lack of affordable housing, emergency services and lack of knowledge should be addressed in a more collaborative manner. The goal is to improve mental health services offered to the residents of Johnson County. However, to do so would require sufficient resources for preventive intervention, education, treatment, and available community services. As further support of need the Johnson County MH/DD agency compared the Needs Assessment results from 1996 and 2003. The Needs Assessment results in 1996 were nearly identical to that of 2003. The results included the five unmet needs described above. However, in 2003 homeless individuals were identified as a future need population. Thus, requiring more attention than they are currently receiving. Persons struggling with substance abuse for special needs transitional housing also share the need. However, it is unrealistic to expect that every client with special needs will be best served in an independent living environment. There are some consumers who will continue to need 24-hour supervised care and support. While what is considered to be the optimal size of group living, facilities are shrinking and housing fewer individuals. Permanent supportive housing needs for special needs populations are discussed in detail in Section II.D, Supportive Housing Needs of Non-Homeless Special Needs Populations. 3. Service Needs for Homeless Populations The public service needs of persons who are homeless are not significantly different from the needs of others in the community who are trying to provide themselves and their families with food, shelter, clothing and opportunity. These needs include, but are not limited to child care, medical services, psychological treatment, substance abuse counseling, living skills, job training, education, transportation, rent assistance, and financial resources. The network of social service agencies developed to assist homeless and other low-income families in meeting these needs is extensive and extremely well developed in Iowa City. Lack of financial resources and sufficient capacity often limit the numbers of persons these programs can serve. As in many small communities across the nation, referrals to shelters and other services come from many different sources. The Crisis Center (an emergency services agency), the emergency shelters, the Salvation Army, local churches, and the State's Department of 41 Human Services all serve as referral resources for those seeking assistance. Once initial contact is made at any of these and other agencies, consumers are directed to appropriate service providers throughout the City. Public comments noted that transportation expense and inconvenience of piecing together needed services, the difficulties in securing child care in order to meet with different providers at different times and locations, and the repetitive paperwork requirements for receiving service can be frustrating, chaotic, and overwhelming for individuals whose lives are already in crisis. At the CITY STEPS public meetings, transportation issues were mentioned quite often by participants. It was suggested that improving transportation options would help many households more efficiently utilize services to meet their needs and enable them to more actively be employed. Over the last few years there has been some centralization of services in the Eastdale Plaza on the eastside of Iowa City. This has helped some clients, but those in need of the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) still need access to the downtown area. The Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG) currently funds a Human Services Coordinator to assist in the development and organization of a cohesive and efficient service system. This position is an important aspect of Iowa City's reputation for excellent social services. Service needs for homeless persons with special needs are often more extensive and require coordination between shelter staff and community resources. The basic service needs of these individuals are not significantly different from others but may include mental health services, medical attention, and accessibility considerations as well as other concerns specific to the clients needs. A more extensive discussion of public service needs can be found in Section IV. E. Non-Housing Community Development Needs Assessment. II. D. Supportive Housing Needs Of Non-Homeless Special Needs 1. Population Demographics and Supportive Housing Needs a. Elderly and Frail Elderly Table II.7: Age Distribution of Elderly in Johnson County Age Number Percentage of Elderly Population 55-59 3,952 26.3% 60-64 2,779 18.5% 65-74 4,338 29% 75-84 2,826 18.8% 85+ 1,101 7.4% Total 14,996 100% Source: Iowa City Public Library Reference Department The data compiled above show that more than 3,927 or 26% of the elderly population is over the age of 75. People 75 years of age and older are considered being "frail elderly." The total number of elderly has risen 117% over the last 8 years. The increase in the under 64 category was over 148%. As the elderly population in Johnson County continues to grow, study after study confirms that smaller cities with large universities and health complexes are becoming retirement destinations. 42 In addition, an analysis of the data shows that the projected need for senior housing is 102% greater than the Maxfield study's projection through 2005. Additional supportive housing needs for the elderly are related to maintaining individuals in their homes including maintenance, housing rehabilitation, in-home support services, at-home nursing care. More than 26% of the elderly population in Johnson County is over the age of 75. As was mentioned in the 2001-2006 CITY STEPS Plan, people 75 years and older generally have at least one disability and many are considered to be frail- with the higher the age, the more likely to have many disabilities and to be frailer. This category is also the group that requires the most supportive housing and services. These supportive housing needs may include maintenance, housing rehabilitation, in-home support services, at home nursing care, respite care, etc. In 2003 and 2004, the Johnson County Task Force on Aging, with assistance from the University of Iowa Department of Public Health and numerous service providers and governmental agencies, conducted a survey in Johnson County of people over the age of 65. There were over 1,000 people responding to this survey. Regarding housing, some of the survey results were as follows: · 76% lived in a house- however, the number decreased with advancing years. The older the person, the more likely they were to rent. · Nearly 94 % thought living at home was very important · Over 20% had done some type of home modification in the past year · Only 21% agreed or strongly agreed that Johnson County offered a good amount of affordable housing options · Only 35% agreed or strongly agreed that Johnson County offered accessible and senior friendly housing design options In addition, most affordable housing options built for the elderly in the past few years often require the use of a Section 8 voucher to make the unit affordable. Currently, there is almost a 2-year waiting period to receive these vouchers. Therefore, a lower income older adult would have to pay market rent for 2 years for these apartments that would result in a cost burden for many lower income households. There is currently one affordable assisted living option in Iowa City. However, as evidenced by how quickly the facility was filled, there appears to be a demand for more affordable assisted living options in the community. In summary, the data show a rapid growth of the elderly population of Iowa City. Subsequently, housing units that support that the 75+ group will be an on-going need. b. Persons with Disabilities As providers of services to this population prepare for the eventuality of managed health care, the need to provide services in independent, supportive living environments will continue to increase. As such, the availability of affordable, accessible, adaptable housing becomes a primary housing need for these individuals. Supplying affordable housing is not enough. Support services must be available when they are needed to serve this populations effectively. 43 It is unrealistic to expect that every consumer with special needs will be best served in an independent living environment. There are some consumers who will continue to need higher levels of support and supervision. The trend in size of group living facilities to serve this population segment is toward smaller facilities. While this may seem ideal, it is considerably more costly. The identifiable stigma associated with individuals labeled as having mental illness or disabilities has deterred providers from estimating the total number of persons with disabilities in the community. Service providers traditionally rely on an extrapolation of national estimates with a slight increase. Providers believe that the social climate (University of Iowa, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, and the VA Hospital) raise the number of persons with disabilities in Iowa City beyond national averages. 1. Mental Illness A continuum of supportive housing option needs to be available to persons with mental illness. Currently Iowa City has 5 beds of transitional housing and 114 beds of supervised, residential care housing for persons with mental illness. In addition, there are 100 individuals served through the independent living program. Additional units are expected to be proposed for development in 2005. The largest gap in the current system is found in provision of supportive housing for persons returning from mental health institutions. The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics estimate that more than 30 individuals could benefit from housing and support in this setting at any given time. A smaller gap in the continuum is in long-term, highly supervised care environments. While most providers feel there is some need for such facilities, the need is seen to be for a small population. The National Alliance for The Mentally Ill (NAMI) for Johnson County maintains that a need exists for highly supervised and supportive, long term housing for persons with mental illness. Anecdotal evidence from both Johnson County's Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Services and Hillcrest Family Services indicates that the need for highly supervised care facilities decreases as the level and availability of supportive services increases within the community. Currently, the Johnson County Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Services serves the following clients: Persons with Mental Illness 253 Persons with Mental Retardation 286 Persons with Developmental Disabilities 76 Persons with Brain Injuries 28 Total 643 2. Physical Disability According to the 2000 Census, there are 7,008 individuals or 11.9% of the population in Johnson County that have a disability. Of this number 2,660 have some type of physical disability. Below is a breakdown of the disabled population by type and age group. The 44 data show that there is a large number of individuals with some type of disability in the age group 16-64 as compared to the other 2 age groups. This difference is accounted for due to the large age range (16 to 64) versus the age ranges for the other age cohorts. Age Group Age Group Age Group Disability Type (5 to 15 years) (16 to 64 years) (65 years and older) Mental 311 1,654 462 Physical 45 1,464 1,151 Other (sensory, self-care, etc) 109 5,125 1,798 The trend in services and housing for persons with physical disabilities is toward independent living with supportive services, or when necessary small group living environments. For this population independent living needs include accessibility, affordability, and supportive services for assessing community resources and teaching living skills. 3. Developmental Disabilities There are currently two providers of care for persons with developmental disabilities, Systems Unlimited and REM-Coralville. Systems Unlimited provides care for 148 individuals (137 adults, 11 children) in-group living environments throughout the community. REM-Coralville provides long-term care to 8 individuals in a highly supervised environment. Providers to persons with developmental disabilities are focusing their efforts on the need for smaller care environments (2-3 individuals/unit) with supportive personnel and services in residence. System Unlimited anticipates a need for approximately three additional units annually with a decreasing demand for larger facility care. These smaller units could be either new construction or rehabilitation of existing homes. 4. Alcohol and Drug Addiction According to providers to persons with alcohol and drug addiction, including Mid- Eastern Council on Chemical Abuse (MECCA), the trend is to provide small supportive housing environments or to provide transitional, independent living facilities throughout the community with supportive services included. MECCA has 12 units of transitional housing for longer-term supportive care. c. Persons with HIV/AIDS and Their Families In September 2002, the Southeast Iowa HIV CARE Consortium (SEIA) conducted a "Needs Assessment" survey. The assessment was designed to determine the needs that persons with HIV/AIDS were and what services could be used to address those needs. The results of the "Needs Assessment" indicated that persons living with HIV/AIDS were unable to pay for basic necessities (housing, utilities, food, clothes, transportation, medicine, etc) some time during the last year. The "Needs Assessment" also indicated that there was a need for educational and supportive services by HIV/AIDS clients. 45 In general, statistical analysis showed that those responding to the survey were representative of those clients receiving services from SEIA. Therefore, the results may not necessary identify all the needs of individuals living with HIV/AIDS. However, the results provide a synopsis of the greatest needs of persons with HIV/AIDS surveyed. d. Public Housing Residents The Iowa City Housing Authority provides 34 units that are accessible to persons with disabilities. Currently, all the ICHA's accessible units are occupied. II. E. Lead Based Paint Hazards Due to a national awareness and concern, HUD has placed the lead-based paint issue as a high priority within its programs and has provided some funds for addressing this health hazard. According to the Iowa State Health Department, "a number of studies have shown that the number of lead-poisoned children is highest in areas with the large amount of older housing, a high rate of children in poverty, and a large minority population." Generally older housing is in poorly maintained neighborhoods and contains more lead-based paint hazards than such housing in areas where the child poverty rate or minority population are lower. Because Iowa's health services, including childhood lead poisoning prevention are provided at the county level, data provided in this section will cover an analysis primarily of Johnson County. Please note that the Iowa State Health Department provided a majority of the information included in this section. According to the Iowa State Department of Health, housing data from the 2000 census show that 39.3 percent of the housing in Iowa (483,849 units) was built before 1950. This is substantially greater than the national average of 22.3 percent. Iowa ranks fifth among the states in the percentage of housing built before 1950 and third among the states in the percentage of housing built before 1940. In Johnson County, 18 percent of the housing (8,227 units) were built before 1950. In Iowa City, 18.4 percent of the housing (4,791 units) were built before 1950. The percentage of pre-1950 housing in Census Tracts 1, 11, 12, 15, 16, 17, and 23 is greater than the national average of 22.3 percent. The percentage of pre-1950 housing in Census Tracts 11 and 15 is greater than the state average of 39.3 percent. The number of pre-1950 housing units in Census Tracts 11 and 15 are 38 percent of the total pre-1950 housing units in Iowa City. These seven census tracts account for 89 percent of the pre-1950 housing in Iowa City. Number of % Pre-1950 Census Tract Pre-1950 Housing Housing Units 1 25.4 539 11 62.7 1105 12 37.1 331 15 55.7 714 16 26.3 783 17 31.7 427 23 31.3 381 tOTAL 4280 46 Poverty Data According to 2000 census data, Iowa's rate of poverty in children under the age of 6 years is 12.9 percent. The poverty rate by county ranges from 4.5 to 27.2 percent. The rate of poverty in children under the age of 6 years in Johnson County is 10.2 percent. Minority and Hispanic Population According to the 2000 census, Iowa's combined minority and Hispanic population is 7.8 percent, or three times greater than the 2.6 percent shown by 1990 census data. By county, the combined minority and Hispanic population ranges from 0.7 to 23.3 percent. In Johnson County, the combined minority and Hispanic population is 10.9 percent. Estimatin~ the Number of Lead-Poisoned Children in Iowa The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has required the state of Iowa to estimate the number of lead-poisoned children in Iowa. This estimate is to be used to help measure the change in the number of lead-poisoned children as the state of Iowa moves toward the elimination of childhood lead poisoning. IDPH has done this by performing an analysis of variance relating the percentage of children identified with confirmed elevated blood lead levels by county to the following factors: percentage of pre-1950 housing, percentage of children under the age of 6 years in poverty, and the combined percentage of minority and Hispanic population. The p-value for the percentage of pre-1950 housing was highly significant (less than 0.0001). The p-value for the percentage of children under the age of 6 years living in poverty was significant (0.02). The p-value for the percentage of combined minority and Hispanic population was nearly significant (0.06). IDPH chose to leave this variable in the model because it was important in explaining the higher levels of prevalence in the counties that had higher percentages of combined minority and Hispanic population. IDPH then used the results of the analysis of variance to calculate a predicted prevalence for each county and for the state of Iowa. The predicted prevalence was multiplied times the number of children under the age of 6 years in each county according to the 2000 census to determine the estimated number of lead-poisoned children in each county and in the state of Iowa. 47 IDPH estimates that there are 12,041 lead-poisoned children in the state of Iowa. IDPH estimates that there are 147 lead-poisoned children in Johnson County. Public Use Microdata Sample {PUMS) Data Additional data are available from the 5 percent 2000 Census Public Use Microdata Sample (PUMS) file for Iowa. This file contains the data for each household that filled out the longer census form that was completed by 5 percent of the population. The 5 percent sample data can be aggregated for a state and for state subdivisions called Public Use Microdata Areas (PUMAs). Each PUMA has at least 100,000 persons. In Iowa, the PUMAs are based on counties. Polk County is the only Iowa county that contained more than one PUMA. The data in this file can be analyzed based on the number of children under the age of 6 years who live in pre-1950 housing or based on the number of pre-1950 houses where at least one child under the age of 6 years lives. The data can be further analyzed by housing tenure (owner-occupied versus rental). Data Based on the Number of Housing Units There are 60,537 pre-1950 houses with at least one child under the age of 6 years; 40,788 are owner- occupied houses, and 19,749 are rental houses. Data Based on the Number of Children There are 83,330 children under the age of 6 years living in pre-1950 houses; 57,359 of the children live in owner-occupied houses, and 25,971 of the children live in rental houses. Data at the PUMA Level IDPH calculated the following for each PUMA from the 5 percent PUMS file for Iowa: · Number of children under the age of 6 years living in pre-1950 owner-occupied and rental houses. · Number of children under the age of 6 years living in poverty who live in pre-1950 owner- occupied and rental houses. These data are shown below for PUMA 700, which is Johnson County. 5 Percent PUMS Data for Children Under the Age of 6 Years, Pre-1950 Housing, and Housin~ Tenure Number of Pre-1950 Houses with Numbe[ of Children Under Age 6 Children Years Living in Under Age 6 Years Pre-1950 Housing Owner- Owner- PUMA Total Occupied Rental Total Occupied Rental 700~ 626 35'1 275 738 458 28C Prevalence of Childhood Lead Poisoning in Iowa Since 1992, the IDPH has recommended that all children under the age of six years be tested for lead poisoning. In addition, state and federal laws require that all children covered by Medicaid be tested for lead poisoning. Iowa law requires the results of all blood lead testing to be reported to IDPH. Therefore, IDPH knows how many children have been tested for lead poisoning and how many have been identified with lead poisoning. IDPH reports the rate of blood lead testing among children and the prevalence of lead poisoning by birth cohort. A birth cohort is a group of children born during a given time period. IDPH uses this method 48 because it is the only method that allows both the percentage of children who have been tested and the percentage that has been identified as lead-poisoned to be reported. It is important to consider both of these rates in assessing the childhood lead poisoning problem in Iowa. For example, if the data show that no lead-poisoned children have been identified in a particular county, but also show that few children have been tested, then it is not possible to say that childhood lead poisoning is not a problem in the county. On the other hand, if most of the children in a county have been tested for lead poisoning and no children have been identified as lead-poisoned, then it may be accurate to say that childhood lead poisoning is not a problem in the county. Johnson County The chart below shows the percentage of children born in Johnson County in various years who were tested at least once before the age of 6 years. The percentage of children tested has increased since 1997, reaching a high of nearly 41 percent for children were born in 2001. While this has increased, it is less than the state average of 57 percent. Johnson County 36.5 37.8 38.5 40.7' 15.9 17.2 18.5--'- · · · · · ·1 0.6 10.2 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 The chart on the next page shows the percentage of children who have been tested for lead poisoning and identified as lead-poisoned. This is shown only for birth cohorts where all children have reached the age of 6 years. The percentage of children identified as lead-poisoned is currently 2.7 percent. This compares to the Iowa average of 9.4 percent and the national average of 2.2 percent. Johnson County 2.8 2.7 I 1 ~99~ ~992 ~993 ~994 ~995 ~996 ~997 49 The chart below shows the number of lead-poisoned children who have been identified as lead-poisoned in Johnson County in the birth cohorts where all children have reached the age of 6 years. This number has ranged from 7 to 14 for the birth cohorts shown. Johnson County 13 13 14 9 7 8 10 Z 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Johnson County Since 1992, IDPH has inspected 32 addresses in Johnson County that were associated with lead- poisoned children. Of the 32 addresses inspected, 13 contained lead-based paint hazards, and 11 of these 13 addresses were in Iowa City. Since it is unlikely that the pre-1950 housing in Iowa City is significantly different than the pre-1950 housing in other areas of Iowa, there is no doubt that lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards are present in these homes. What cannot be discerned from the census data is whether it is less likely for children to live in these homes in Iowa City. Many of them are close to the University of Iowa campus and have been converted to apartments for students, most of who do not have small children. Lead poisoning is not a risk for these students. However, in the homes that are currently single-family homes or rental homes that are occupied by families with children, lead poisoning is a risk. In addition, lead poisoning is a risk for owners and contractors who remove or disturb lead-based paint while they are repairing or restoring these older homes. Finally, it is always possible that the pre-1950 homes that currently serve as apartments for students could be converted back to single-family homes. If this happens, then more children could be exposed to lead-based paint hazards. In addition, Iowa City does address lead-paint hazards through its Housing Rehabilitation Program, where testing and interim controls (i.e. repainting) occurs in units with lead-based paint. In addition, The Iowa City Housing Authority and Housing and Inspection Services provide information regarding lead-based paint hazards and abatement to landlords and tenants. The Community and Economic Development office has done limited testing of children and structures through its Housing Rehabilitation Program. The Housing Rehabilitation Program regularly evaluates pre-1978 units that they assist for lead hazards. To date, all units owned by the Iowa City Housing Authority have been certified as lead-free and therefore do not pose a threat to low-income children in Iowa City. 50 Overall, Iowa City's situation is unique in that a high number of the City's housing units are likely occupied by university students who, given their age, are at less risk of lead poisoning. Many of these housing units, generally rentals, are also located in the downtown neighborhoods that are the oldest in the City. These students, traditionally, are lower-income households. Because of this, Iowa City shows a larger number of low-income persons living in units with greater risk of lead-based paint hazard due to the age of the structure. 51 III. Housing Market Analysis III A. SIGNIHCANT CHARACTERISTICS OF THE HOUSING MARKET 1. Background and Trends Introduction Within Iowa, Iowa City traditionally has had a unique housing market due to the presence of the University of Iowa as well as its large medical complexes. The demands created by these institutions significantly affect both the elderly, young households and families that must compete with students for housing in and around the downtown area, close to both the University and other main centers of employment. The University of Iowa undergraduate student population accounts for slightly less than a fourth of Iowa City's 62,220 residents. The University o£ Iowa Hospital and Clinics (UIHC) and the Iowa City VA Medical Center attract patients from well beyond the county limits, many of whom require long-term outpatient care and, therefore, need housing in Iowa City. In addition to the hospitals themselves, Iowa City is a regional center for the provision of many social and supportive services. Even when hospital care is no longer needed, clients may find it beneficial to stay in the area for rehabilitation or to utilize the social services available. These persons are generally in need of housing and often have few resources. It is not possible to quantify this, but the anecdotal evidence is present. Preserving Houses and Neighborhoods As in most housing markets, the cost of new housing continues to increase due to inflation or other factors. As such, the continued viability of the existing housing stock becomes increasingly important. Continued improvement and maintenance of the current housing stock is vital. In some cases, lower- income homeowners, as well as persons who are elderly or disabled, need assistance in maintaining their homes as well as to make them accessible. Consideration must also be given to preservation of historic structures, lead based paint hazards and to energy conservation measures that will reduce heating and cooling costs when rehabilitating older homes. Some moderate-income homeowners also need assistance in keeping up older homes. There is a need to help first-time homebuyers with rehabilitation. Many times, moderate-income, first time homebuyers are only able to afford those older homes in need of extensive repairs. The City's Housing Rehabilitation Program has been preserving and maintaining affordable housing in Iowa City since 1976 through the CDBG and HOME programs. In an effort to encourage moderate- income residents to make improvements to their homes, the Targeted Area Housing Rehabilitation Program (TARP) was created in 2000. TARP allows the City to offer housing rehabilitation and/or historic preservation loans to homeowners that are ineligible for federal funds due to income limitations. Qualified homeowners are eligible to do improvement projects from $10,000 to $40,000 and are able to access low interest loans that are repayable over a twenty-year period. Eligible improvements include the following: · Mandatory correction of housing code violations; · Energy efficiency modifications; · Elimination of lead based paint hazards; · Accessibility improvements; · Additions and renovations; and · Historic preservation. 53 In addition to assisting homeowners, the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program has in the past funded programs for the improvement and maintenance of the City's rental housing stock. A large percentage of the City's rental units are located in structures within the central part of the City although new developments have been occurring. Many of the downtown rental structures are generally older, single- family homes that have been converted into three or more rental units. Rental rehabilitation has not been active for about 10 years due to a lack of interest by landlords. If landlords show an interest, rental rehabilitation is an eligible activity under the CDBG program. In 1983, the City appointed a Historic Preservation Commission and approved a Preservation Ordinance. A Historic Preservation Plan was approved by the City Council in 1992. For over 10 years, the Historic Preservation Commission has been surveying historic properties to ensure their viability and promoting the creation of historic districts. Results indicate that these historic properties have a positive effect on neighborhood investment. As of today, Iowa City has six Historic Districts and four Conservation Districts. The last five districts have been established since 2000. The Historic Preservation Commission continues to evaluate other potential districts. The Iowa City metro area continues to grow as new businesses locate to the area and existing businesses expand. The strong economic base of the Iowa City area has maintained housing prices. Data shows that although housing prices over the last 5 years have risen, this price increase is slower than increases in the median income, which may make some units more affordable. However, according to HUD's CHAS table, there is still a shortage of affordable units in Iowa City as many households continue to be "cost burdened." Age and Household Type The population of Iowa City remained fairly constant with an increase of 4.2 % between 1990 and 2000. Reflective of this population increase, each age group remained static with the exception of the age group of 19 years and under. It is the only group to register a loss as a percentage of the total population. The number of reported Male-headed households showed the greatest increase in the percentage of the total population, with a 29.6% increase. Male-headed households have doubled the number of female- headed households. Presently, nearly 13% of Iowa City households are female-headed households. The reasoning for the significant increase in male-headed households is unknown. One possibility is that the Census stopped tracking married households and as such households had to choose male or female head of household. This could account for the change. The age group showing the least change are those 65 years and older with an increase of only four-tenths of one percent, as a percentage of total population. Often, these persons are life long residents of Iowa City. However, there is a slight increase in the number of elderly, single-person households. This may be reflective of Iowa City receiving recognition by senior-oriented magazines naming Iowa City as a comfortable place for seniors and a good place to retire. 54 Table III. 1 Population by Age and Household Type Household 1990 Percent 2000 Percent Percent Type Change Total Population 59,738 62,200 Median Age 24.9 25.4 0.5 19 years and 15,500 29.5 15,619 25.1 -0.8 under 65 years and 3,923 6.6 4,375 7.0 0.4 older Total 21,951 25,202 14.8 Households Family 10,836 49.4 11,200 44.4 -5.0 Households *Married couple 8,917 40.6 NA NA NA Families male 423 1.9 7,933 31.5 29.6 Families female 1,496 6.8 3,267 13.0 6.2 Non-family 11,115 50.6 14,002 55.6 5.0 households Householders 6,523 29.7 8,514 33.8 4.1 living alone Householders 1,306 5.9 1,538 6.1 0.2 alone and 65 or over Persons living in 8,368 14 6,110 9.8 -4.2 group quarters SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS, 1990 and2000 *Married couple: Information not available for 2000 2. Supply and Demand According to the 2000 Census, there are 26,083 housing units in Iowa City, not including dormitories and University of Iowa family apartments. Of this number 25,202 are occupied housing units. There are 11,714 (46.5%) owner-occupied housing units and 13,488 (53.5%) renter-occupied housing units. This ownership pattern is the opposite of the state of Iowa, as statewide 67.5% are homeowners and only 32.5% are renters. Of the total housing units, 881 units (3.4%) were vacant according to the 2000 Census. Thirty-three percent or 287 of the vacant units are for sale and 35% or 308 are for rent. The rental vacancy rate translates into a rate of 2.2% in the 2000 Census. The remaining 286 or 32% of the vacant housing units are rented or sold/not occupied, for seasonal, recreational, or occasional use, or vacant for some other reason. According to Cook's Iowa City Area Apartment Survey, the rental market vacancy rate has risen slightly to about 4% in 2003. This 2003 vacancy rate is likely to increase slightly in 2004 due to several rental complexes coming on-line (e.g. The Lodge, etc.). Iowa City's rental vacancy rate is approaching a typical market rental vacancy rate of 5% that is considered healthy. The increasing flexibility in the Iowa City rental market should help to slow down the amount of rent increases and provide more opportunities for low-moderate income households. 55 According to Cook's survey, the 2003 vacancy rates for three and four bedroom units remained low (0.93% and 0.00% respectively). However, one and two bedroom vacancy rates had a dramatic increase. It is likely that college students are leasing the larger 3 and 4 bedroom units. On the other hand, assuming that 1 or 2 bedroom units are being occupied by single or 2 person households this could explain the higher vacancy rates on these unit types, suggesting these households are buying condos or homes instead of renting. Cook's survey indicated the highest vacancy rate in 2-bedroom units at 5.34%, while 1-bedroom vacancy rates were not far behind at 5.18%. Because the University of Iowa is the largest employer in the area, many homebuyers are University employees. Some people affiliated with the University, such as graduate students or medical residents, may find it financially beneficial to buy rather than rent a home, even when they plan to move after two to three years. This results in a continuous turnover of owner-occupied units. Over the last few years, over 400 owner-occupied homes have been sold each quarter. Table 1II.6 shows the number of sales in Johnson County. Many new homebuyers come from areas of the country where housing is more expensive and tend to buy upscale housing in Iowa City. Other homebuyers are families already established in the community moving up to a larger home. Another trend is parents of college students buying homes (often condominiums) for one or more of their children to live while attending the University. Despite continuous construction of single-family homes and rental units, there continues to be a demand for lower-cost units for both markets. The steady demand for both rental and owner-occupied housing in conjunction with other market factors (e.g. cost of materials) drives up the cost for housing. Information from many sources suggests that the cost of owner-occupied units has increased at nearly the same rate as rental units. 3. Condition of the Housing Stock Overall, owner-occupied and rental housing conditions throughout the community are good to excellent. There are very few structures that are in extreme disrepair. In 2000, the Community and Economic Development staff conducted a "windshield survey," an exterior housing survey to access basic housing conditions within "targeted areas" of the City. The staff surveyed a total of 8,325 housing units, which represented about 33% of the total housing stock. The units were placed into four categories; Excellent, good (minor deficiency), fair (major deficiency), and deteriorating (possibly infeasible, high dollar rehabilitation) based on its structural and surface integrity. Overall, the "windshield survey" results showed that housing conditions in Iowa City were good. However, it is important to note that the homes included in the survey were located in the older parts of the community and identified as those housing units most in need of repair. While the housing stock in Iowa City is generally in good condition the survey did find 1,022 housing units that were in need of major repairs. In addition, 5,509 units were in need of minor repairs. Over the last 4 years the City's Housing Rehabilitation program has assisted homeowners citywide through the Targeted Area Rehabilitation Program (TARP). TARP enables the Housing Rehabilitation staff to work with eligible homeowners within the "targeted areas" determined by the "windshield survey"in order to identify code compliance issues and create a work list. Once a TARP agreement has been signed, the Housing Rehabilitation office oversees the project activities with the contractors. TARP has been successful in preserving neighborhoods and adding to the residential tax base. Iowa City has an active rental housing inspection program that helps maintain the rental housing stock. The Housing and Inspection Services (HIS) office performs approximately 8,800 inspections of rental units annually. This figure includes housing assistance inspections. 56 As noted throughout this document, Iowa City has been steadily growing. There is new housing construction in all areas of the community. Housing conditions in the sections of town outside of the downtown core are excellent and are integrated well into the existing neighborhoods. In 2003, 193 new single-family and 546 rental building permits were issued. 4. Building Permits and Value of New Construction New housing starts in Iowa City have been steadily increasing. Since 1990 there have been 2,243 permits issued for new single-family homes. Table III.2 shows the total number of new single-family homes that have been constructed in Johnson County from 1990 to 2003. The building trend has continued this year with 90 single-family dwelling unit permits issued by the City through July of 2004. 57 Table HI.2: New Single-Family Dwelling Building Permits Unincorporated Johnson County CoralvilleI North Liberty2 Year # of Total Value # of Total Value # of Total Value ($) Permits ($) Permits ($) Permits 1990 123 15,367,550 52 N/A 8 384,971 1991 140 18,725,286 44 N/A 17 991,990 1992 155 20,771,700 47 N/A 20 1,250,190 1993 163 22,356,013 94 13,138,100 29 2,241,611 1994 153 24,449,012 84 11,246,000 168 10,323,030 1995 111 18,213,000 59 8,573,500 161 9,726,000 1996 101 15,820,626 82 10,004,265 50 4,000,000 1997 110 18,827,909 92 12,231,450 34 3,017,383 1998 127 24,049,994 104 14,092,730 51 4,363,000 1999 109 21,555,850 132 22,056,150 47 5,022,102 2000 119 28,866,756 130 19,626,794 57 7,199,366 2001 82 19,471,013 151 26,754,455 79 10,942,561 2002 110 25,574,202 120 23,661,000 110 13,784,335 2003 113 28,167,103 144 28,515,919 202 27,246,001 ~ Specific values ofCoralville buildingpermits are unavailable for theyearsprior to 1993. 2 Figures include duplexes and zero lot lines. Source: City of Iowa City Housing & Inspection Services, City of Coralville, City of North Liberty, Johnson County Planning and Zoning Department, June 2004. 58 In addition, there have been 186 duplex units constructed in Iowa City between 1990 and 2003, providing for another 372 single-family units. Many of the duplexes in Iowa City were built in the 1970s as affordable housing. Starting in the early 1980s there was an interest among the private developers in building zero lot-line homes because of the reduced cost and subsequent affordability to consumers. Zero lot-line construction has been particularly active in Coralville and North Liberty. Because of its affordability, this type of housing also has become a popular housing type within the Iowa City housing market, especially for first-time homebuyers. Because Iowa City is a university community, a large percentage of the housing units are multi-family rentals (53.5% according to the 2000 Census). Additionally, condos or other multi-family units have had a higher degree of acceptance in the ownership market. Table 111.4 shows the number of permits issued and the number of multi-family units constructed between 1990 and 2000. The number of units constructed during the time period was 3,508, which are approximately 15% of the total stock. Table III.3: New Permits CoralviHe2 North Liberty Year # of Permits Total Value # of Permits Total Value ($) 1990 25 N/A 4 311,806 1991 36 N/A 4 280,000 1992 46 N/A 5 380,000 1993 37 3,860,000 7 716,000 1994 30 3,645,000 _3 _3 1995 20 2,925,000 _3 _3 1996 11 1,142,000 _3 _3 1997 6 865,000 33 2,389,600 1998 10 1,730,000 27 1,720,000 1999 9 1,820,000 14 1,954,500 2000 8 1,074,550 28 2,164,000 2001 19 2,895,545 18 1,740,000 2002 30 4,308,000 53 4,836,000 2003 30 12 2,250,000 173 13,186,634 ~ Values for 11 of the apartment units in 1993 are included in a commercialpermit. 2 SpecificvaluesofCoralvillebuildingpermitsareunavailablefortheyearspriorto1993. s Duplexes and zero lot line units in North Liberty are included in Single-Family Dwelling totals for years 1994-1997. Note: Duplexes include zero lot line units in Coralville. Zero lot line units for Iowa City are included in Single-Family Dwelling totals. Source: City of Iowa City Housing & Inspection Services, City of Coralville, City of North Liberty, June 2004. 59 Table HI.4: New Multi-Family Dwelling Building Permits Coralvillez North Liberty # of Permits Total value # of Permits Total Value Year 1990 5 (10) N/A 1 447,734 1991 12 (137) N/A 0 280,000 1992 11 (72) N/A 0 - 1993 5 (29) 1,230,000 7 (53) 1,841,0001 1994 9 (78) 2,215,000 2 (19) 741,000 1995 10 (88) 2,671,000 12 (38) 914,000 1996 10 (96) 1,541,000 10 (92) 2,792,84 1997 5 (28) 1,475,000 2 (20) 599,000 1998 7 (49) 3,784,000 6 (72) 1,409,629 1999 16 7,155,000 3 (36) 1,275,000 2000 22 9,833,000 17 (116) 5,980,000 2001 20 11,905,000 4 (25) 1,251,000 2002 21 8,878,000 10 (88) 4,630,000 2003 7 4,697,500 10 (84) 4,302,000 ~ Values for 11 of the apartment units in 1993 are included in a commercialpermit. 2Speci~c values of Coralville building permits are unavailable for the years prior to 1993. 5. Cost of Housing Stock Iowa City has been one of the more dynamic housing markets in Iowa as witnessed by the large number of building permits issued and low vacancy rates for all types of housing. Because of the sustained demand, the private sector has been concentrating on mid level priced homes and multi-family developments, which provide them with the greatest return on investment. Annual residential sales on Table III. 6 indicate that the average cost of a home in Iowa City in 2003 was $145,000. There was a decrease in the average sales price from 2002 to 2003 of $8,398. This decrease can likely be attributed to the strong production numbers and the production of some lower cost units (condos). Table 111.5 and Table III.6 list housing sales data from the Iowa City Area Association of Realtors, that has been compiled from the Multiple Listing Service. According to this data, the average sales price of single-family dwelling units have increased from $124,903 in 1998 to $145,000 in 2003, or approximately 16%. During this same period, Iowa City median income figures (provided by HUD) increased by 30% for a family of 4. Despite the higher median income, the Census reports that Iowa City households are spending a larger proportion of their income on housing costs. In 1989, 49.7% of ranters and 12.9% of homeowners paid more than 30% of their income on housing (gross rent or owner costs). In 1999 these percentages increased to 54.2% for renters and 15.7% for homeowners. There are very few homes in Iowa City valued at less than $60,000 (.5%) while statewide more than half of the homes fall in this category. Forty-nine percent of the owner-occupied homes for sale in Iowa City in 2003 were valued between $100,000 and $179,999. 60 Table 111.5: Single-Family Home Sales~ January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003 Johnson County Percent of Price Class 1-2 Bedrooms 3 Bedrooms 4+ Bedrooms CONDO Total Units Sold $40,000 & Under 0 0 0 0 0 0.0% $40,000 - $59,999 4 1 0 5 10 0.5% $60,000 - $79,999 6 3 0 9 18 1.0% $80,000 - $99,999 11 19 2 32 64 3.4% $100,000 - $139,999 50 160 26 236 472 25.0% $140,000 - $159,999 10 62 30 102 204 10.8% $160,000 - $179,999 6 90 29 125 250 13.3% $180,000 - $199,999 2 56 40 98 196 10.4% $200,000 - $249,999 1 42 81 124 248 13.1% $250,000 & Over 0 30 182 212 424 22.5% Total 90 463 390 943 1886 100.0% 1 Sales ofresidentialandcondominium andzero lotproperties. Source:Iowa City Area Association of Realtors, June 2004 Table III.6 Annual Residential Sales Johnson County and Surrounding Area2 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 Number of Sales 1,269 1,193 1,365 1,486 1,760 1,895 1,910 1,897 1,830 2,098 Average Listing $112,956 $115,239 $115,916 $122,728 $128,020 $134,238 $137,620 $144,609 $158,142 $166,370 Price Average Sale $111,174 $112,761 $112,913 $119,202 $124,903 $131,643 $133,843 $142,388 $153,398 $145,000 Price Total Sale $141,080 $134,524 $154,804 $177,134 $219,829 $254,381 $255,640 $270,112 $280,719 $349,043 Volume (thousands) 2 Surrounding areas include West Branch, Tipton, West Liberty, Riverside, Kalona, Wellman, and adjacent rural areas. Note: Figures based on Iowa City Area Association of Realtors Service Area. Source:Iowa City Area Association of Realtors, June 2004. In order to afford a median cost home ($151,500) in Iowa City, as of 1st quarter 2004, a potential homebuyer would have to earn a minimum annual salary of approximately $51,428. According to HUD, the median household income for a family of four in Iowa City in 2004 is $72,100. This data show that the median home cost is equal to 2.1 times the median income for a household of four. Excluding the many non-family households that are probably students or post-graduate young adults not yet in the ownership market, these income figures show it is possible for first time homebuyers to get into the market. In 1999, the median cost home in Iowa City was $120,500, with a potential homebuyer having to earn a minimum annual salary of approximately $43,800. This historical data shows that the median home cost is equal to 2.22 times the 1999 HUD median income for a household of four ($54,400). Below is a table that demonstrates the income required to purchase a home based on housing price: 61 House Price Payment Per Month Annual Income Required $80,000 $665 $28,500 $100,000 $815 $34,932 $120,000 $964 $41,314 $140,000 $1,114 $47,743 $160,000 $1,263 $54,132 $180,000 $1,412 $60,514 Assumin 30-year loan, 5% down, 6.25% interest rate, .0074 PMI, and typical tax and insurance costs. Figures do not include utilit ~ costs. Affordability is the key for both homeowners and renters. Both renters and homcbuycrs face financial pressures. If the cost of housing is mom than 30% of thc households' monthly income, the household is considered by HUD to have a housing problem, specifically cost burdened. (Section IIB. Housing Needs Assessment defines housing problems). According to thc 2000 Census, in Iowa City, 20% of all elderly related households under 80% median income (renters or owners) have some housing problems. Whereas, sixty percent of "all other" renting households arc facing similar dilemmas. Overall, 16% percent of homeowners and 54% of renters encounter some type of housing problems. The costs of rental units in Iowa City increased on average by 3%-4% between 1998 and 2003 (Cook Appraisal, Inc. Apartment Survey 2003). Data from the Iowa City Area Apartment Rent Survey also showed an average vacancy rate of 4.06% for all units. The following shows the average monthly rents (1998-2003) listed in the survey: Unit Size 1998 1999 2001 2002 2003 % Change 1998-2003 1 Bedroom $376.37 $378.22 $389.34 $445.00 $448.00 19% 2 Bedroom $493.45 $501.75 $522.75 $594.00 $595.00 21% 3 Bedroom $737.64 $761.72 $786.27 $841.00 $870.00 18% 4+ $1,001.47 $1,040.78 $1,082.37 $1,169.00 $1,203.00 20% Bedroom Note: Report not completed during 2000. This data suggests monthly rent for all unit sizes have increased about 20% during the period between 1998 and 2003. In 2002-2003, the largest increases are shown in 3 and 4 bedroom units as rent in 3 and 4 bedrooms increased by $34. In contrast, the smallest increases from 2002-2003 were found in 1 and 2 bedroom units with little or no increase in rents. The 3.9 % rent increase from 1998 to 2003 is slightly more than the rate of inflation over this same period. This data suggests that rent increases in this market may also have slowed due to the rate of production of new units. As with homeownership, a slowing in the cost of housing benefits low-moderate income households. Manufactured homes are some of the least costly homes to purchase in Iowa City. At present, there are approximately 1,058 mobile homes in Iowa City. During the 1993 flooding, two mobile home parks in the floodplain sustained damages reducing the capacity of Iowa City's mobile home parks for a time. A new manufactured home park, Saddlebrook, has recently opened. It contains 60 apartment units, 139 manufactured homes, 120 condominiums, and 15 town homes with more development planned. 80 additional manufactured homes have been.platted and approved for this park. Adjacent areas in Johnson County contain several mobile home parks. In addition to these local parks, the cities of North Liberty and Coralville also have accommodations for manufactured housing. 62 6. Vacancy Rates Over half of Iowa City residents are renters. This fact makes Iowa City unique among all other Iowa communities except Ames, another university town. The rental market has a cynical rhythm based on the University calendar. At certain times of the year, such as October when leases have been signed, renters may experience difficulty finding affordable housing. Over the last few years some landlords have had some fall vacancies. The highest rents are for units located within one mile of campus. Areas further out are somewhat more affordable. According to the 2002-2003 Cook Appraisal Survey the vacancy rates have started to increase, which should have an effect on rental rates. It is anticipated that when the new "Lodge" apartments come on-line in late 2004 (560 bedrooms) vacancy rates will increase. Due to high demands for housing, the vacancy rates for both rental units and owner-occupied units are still under 5%. Information from the Iowa City Board of Realtors states that 104 days was the average selling time of homes sold in calendar year 2003. This is a slight decrease from 2002 when the average time on the market was 121 days. Tables 111.7, III. 8, 111.9 show the vacancy rates for different types of units using Census data and locally generated data from surveys. The following shows the vacancy rates (1998-2003) listed in the survey: Table 111.7: Rental Vacancy Rate Over Time Unit Size 1998 1999 2001 2003 1 Bedroom 3.59% 3.85% 1.05% 5.18% 2 Bedroom 2.40% 1.00% 1.48% 5.34% 3 Bedroom 5.43% 0.80% 0.81% 0.93% 4+ Bedroom 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% Note: Cook's Appraisals Report not conducted during 2002. Table III.8: Vacancy Rates By Type Of Housing Unit Type Iowa City Iowa U.S. Rental Units 2.2 6.8 6.8 Homeowner Units 2.4 1.7 1.7 Source: 2000 Census - Housing The tenure and type of housing stock within the community is shown in Table III. 9. This information was gathered from the 1990 and 2000 Census. The data show that there has been a moderate increase in the number of owner-occupied units constructed between 1990 and 2000 of 1,891 units. The number of rental units has also increased, however, at a slower rate (1,360 units). This growth rate demonstrates a continuation of a trend in the increase in housing units available; however, the University of Iowa has not provided more housing for its students. The decreases in dormitory beds and family housing are due to construction at Mayflower Residence Hall and one building conversion to dormitory style living. Despite overall changes, the vacancy rate for both owner-occupied and rental units remain low. 63 Table III. 9: Type~. of Occu ded Housin. Units Status 1990 Percent 2000 Percent Percentage Change Owner-Occupied 9,823 34.8 11,714 37.4 2.6% Rental Units 12,128 43.0 13,488 43.0 0% UI dormitory (#beds) 5,508 19.5 5,461 17.4 -2.1% UI family apartments 749 2.7 694 2.2 -0.2% Total 28,208 100% 31,357 100% Sources: Rental and Owner-Occupied 1990 and 20001 Census, 1990 And 2000; University of Iowa Housing Services and Family Apartments 7. Housing Stock Available to Persons with Disabilities An inventory of accessible and adaptable rental units is compiled and available from the Iowa City Housing Authority. The listing of units (June 2004) shows 1,181 units available citywide. This number does not take into account the number of owner-occupied homes that are accessible or adaptable, group homes or human service agency facilities, or new units that have not been completed. In addition, some of these special needs groups do not require housing that is uniquely modified and they are able to utilize existing housing stock. Each year the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program receives requests and completes projects for accessibility modifications or repairs that enable lower income persons to remain in their housing units. Approximately 30-40 calls are received annually from lower income persons needing accessibility modifications or improvements. This type of activity provides a low cost, effective method of meeting the needs of some special needs households. 8. Housing Stock Available to Persons with HIV/AIDS and Their Families The Johnson County Department of Health stated that there are 104 reported AIDS cases (cumulatively) in Johnson County from February 1983 through March 2004. Also, as of March 2004 there were 93 individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Johnson County. According to the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Annual Progress Report for FY04, the Iowa Center for AIDS Resources and Education (ICARE) provided housing assistance for 38 individuals, 7 of which were families. Prior to entering into the (ICARE) program, thirty-two (84.2%) were living in rental housing, 3 (7.9%) living with relatives/friends, and 3 (7.9%) were either jailed/imprisoned, homeless from the street, or living in transitional housing. The HOPWA report also indicated gross monthly incomes at entry in the program for those receiving housing assistance. However, only incomes for 24 of the 38 individuals were reported. Of the 24 individuals reporting income data, all households' gross monthly incomes were below $1,500. Based on the current Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom unit at $477/month, all of the households reporting incomes would be cost burdened, paying more than 30% of their income for housing. This limited data indicate a very high need for housing assistance for this population. 9. Areas of Concentration The State of Iowa is predominately White. Of the State's residents 93.9% are White, 2.1% are Black; 2.8% are Hispanic, and less than one percent each of Native American and Asian populations. Iowa City's academic, medical, and business environment attract more diversity, however the vast majority of Iowa City is White at 87.3%. Blacks (non-Hispanic) make up 3.8% of the population while Asians (non-Hispanic) are 5.7%, and persons of Hispanic origin account for 3%. The only minority group in Iowa City under-represented, compared to the state level is the Native American population. 64 Definition of Minority Concentration A minority concentration is defined herein as any census tract where the population of any minority group is 10% more than the citywidc proportion. Mapping of Iowa City shows the Asian or Pacific Islander population is the only minority group that appears as a concentration, according to this definition. From 1990 to 2000 thc number of minority residents increased by 2,561 persons. In 1990 there were 5,325 minority individuals or 8.9% of the Iowa City population, this number increased to 7,886 in 2000 or 12.7% of the Iowa City population. This trend indicates Iowa City is becoming more culturally diverse. Not surprisingly, thc areas that contain University housing show a concentration of minorities. It is misleading to label this a "minority concentration," since thc total numbers arc so small. Tract 4 is the only tract containing minority concentration, which include University-owned student housing for families. Table III. 10 shows the breakdown of Iowa City's population by race and the number of persons. Table III. 11 shows the breakdown of Iowa City's population by census tract. Table III.10: Iowa City Population by Race Race Percent of Total Population Number of Persons White (non-Hispanic) 87.3% 54, 334 Black (non-Hispanic) 3.7% 2,333 American Indian, Eskimo, >. 1% 191 or Aleut (non-Hispanic) Asian or Pacific Islander 5.7% 3,536 (non-Hispanic) Other 1.3% 778 2 or more 1.7% 1,048 Total 100% 62,220 Source: 2000 CENSUS 65 Table III. 11 Concentration by Census Tract Census 2000 White Black American Asian/ Other Two or Tract Total Indian Pacific Race more Population races 1 5,860 5,347 136 11 205 76 85 (91.2%) (2.3%) (0.2%) (3.4%) (1.3%) (1.4%) 4 5,687 3,817 464 22 1,153 85 1.46 (67.1%) (8.1%) (0.4%) (20.2%) (1.5%) (2.5%) 5 6,837 5,875 235 19 524 67 117 (85.9%) (3.4%) (0.3%) (7.6%) (1.0%) (1.7%) 6 3,157 2,621 141 9 307 28 51 (83%) (4.4%) (0.3%) (9.7%) (0.9%) (1.6%) 11 3,853 3,556 72 10 131 38 46 (95.1%) (1.8%) (0.3%) (3.4%) (1.0%) (1.1%) 12 2,052 1,952 23 3 41 5 28 (95.1%) (1.1%) (0.2%) (2.0%) (0.2%) (1.3%) 13 3,172 2,996 71 0 61 21 23 (94.4%) (2.2%) (1.9%) (0.7 %) (0.7%) 14 4,524 4,099 211 14 88 37 75 (90.6%) (4.6%) (0.3%) (1.9%) (0.8%) (1.6%) lS 2,617 2,472 54 11 32 11 37 (94.4%) (2.1%) (0.4%) (1.2%) (0.4%) (1.4%) 16 6,646 6,150 118 13 220 57 88 (92.5%) (1.7%) (0.2%) (3.3%) (0.8%) (1.3%) 17 2,936 2,728 57 6 56 40 49 (92.9%) (1.9%) (0.2%) (1.9%) (1.3%) (1.6%) 18 7,462 6,075 583 43 356 204 201 (81.4%) (7.8%) (0.5%) (4.7%) (2.7%) (2.7%) 21 3,625 3,336 90 13 99 37 50 (92%) (2.8%) (0.3%) (2.7%) (1.0%) (1.3%) 23 3,979 3,581 63 5 252 28 50 (90.0%) (1.5%) (0.1%) (6.3%) (0.7%) (1.2%) 105 4,999 4,747 42 21 77 61 51 (94.9%) (0.8%) (0.4%) (1.5%) (1.2%) (1.0%) Source: 2000 Census Indicates percent of tract 10. Concentration of Low Income Households minority concentration is defined herein as any census tract where the population of any minority group is 10% more than the citywide proportion. Mapping of Iowa City shows the Asian or Pacific Islander population is the only minority group that appears as a concentration, according to this definition. Iowa City has one area that meets the definition of a low-income concentration. This area concentration located within Census Tract 4 (immediately west of Mormon Trek Boulevard). In 1990 and 2000, when the census information was collected, Census Tract 4 was not heavily developed. Two housing developments compromised the majority of the housing units in this census tract in 1990 and 2000, they were University of Iowa married/graduate student housing and the Pheasant Ridge Apartment Complex (subsidized housing). Since 2000, there continues to be new construction in this census tract, mostly with upper level housing developments (Southwest Estates, Walnut Ridge, Galway Hills, and Hunters Run). 66 a. Definition of Low-Income Areas Low-income populations are defined as tracts where thc majority of households ($1% or mom) qualify as low income according to HUD definitions. The map entitled "Low-Moderate Income Areas" shows that most of these tracts are adjacent to the University campus. There are several reasons that we find low-and moderate-income households located around the campus. First, many of the low-income concentration are student neighborhoods. It is expected that many of these people are "temporarily poor" and once done with college, will move into a higher earning bracket. Although current students will move on to employment in or outside Iowa City, new students come to the City each year. This cycle has an impact on the City's housing and service delivery systems. Due to continual student turnover, the City has a static low-income population. Also, there are more apartment complexes with high turnover rates in these tracts therefore attracting the temporary citizens of Iowa City. Finally, it appears that location may be more influential than housing costs in these tracts. A quick survey comparing median housing costs in these tracts with the citywide median housing costs reveals that there is little difference between areas cost wise. 67 HAP 111.1 Concentration of Hinority Households Census Tracts of number of mino~y households at least 10% greater than the general population 68 MAP 111.2 Areas of Low to Moderate Income Households Census tracts where 51% or more of the households are below 80% of the median family income for [owa City MAP II1.3 Conceat~'ation of low to I~mta Income Census T~ of fl~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ at ~t l~ gr~ ~n ~ ~1 ?0 III B. Public and Assisted Housing Analysis of Public Housing Units: Public housing was established to provide affordable, decent and safe rental housing for eligible low- income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) distributes federal subsidies to the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA), which owns and manages thc housing. Thc City of Iowa City owns 88 public housing units; thc ICHA serves as the landlord and rents these units to eligible tenants. They arc scattered throughout Iowa City and were constrnctcd to conform and blend into the existing neighborhood architecture. Unit type Number of units: Single Family 38 Duplex/Zero Lot 38 Multi-Family 8 Row House 4 Total 88 Economic Impact: · The 88 Public Housing units represent .006% of the total number of rental units in the City of Iowa City. The total FY04 rental income from our Public Housing properties = $240,746. · The ICHA Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) for the Public Housing properties in FY04 was $20,613 · The ICHA pays approximately $300,000 annually to private sector Iowa City contractors for the capital improvement, general maintenance, and repair of the Public Housing properties. Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS): PHAS evaluates a PHA by assessing the following: (a) the physical condition of the PHA properties; (b) the PHA's financial condition; (c) the PHA's management operations; and (d) the resident assessment of the PHA's performance. · Fiscal Year 2004 PHAS score = 96%. · Designation Status = High Performer. The physical condition of the City owned Public Housing units is excellent. HUD contracts with an independent contractor to physically inspect the Public Housing units. During the most recent inspection, the ICHA's Public Housing units received an average score of 94%. This score contributed to the HUD designation of High Performer, the highest rank given by HUD. As part of the HUD assessment, management of the Public Housing units is reviewed. The areas evaluated are vacant unit turn-around time, work order response time, annual inspections, security, and economic self-sufficiency. The ICHA received a perfect score of 100% during most recent assessment. In addition, HUD utilizes a resident satisfaction survey to determine the resident's perception of the effectiveness of Public Housing management. The surveys are sent directly by HUD to the Public 71 Housing tenant and the tenant returns the response directly to HUD. The survey requires the tenant to respond to questions regarding maintenance/repair, communication by HA staff, safety at their unit, HA services, and neighborhood appearance. In the most recent survey the Public Housing program received a score of 100%. The final area of HUD assessment of Public Housing programs involves a review of the HA finances. The ICHA received a score of 93% during the most recent financial review, which includes an audited financial statement. The living environment of Public Housing families remains exceptional. This has been accomplished because of the scattered site locations of the units. Public Housing units fit nicely into existing neighborhoods and the success of the families can be demonstrated by the sale of 14 Public Housing homes to Public Housing families who have achieved economic self-sufficiency. The ICHA intends to continue to closely monitor the needs of Public Housing units by conducting annual preventative maintenance tours on each unit. If there are occurrences of below average housekeeping, it is ICHA policy to place the household on monthly housekeeping inspections to ensure the integrity of the Public Housing program and its continued success in the community. Analysis of Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Units: The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) is funded by the U.S. Department Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with the intent of increasing affordable housing choices for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Families with a HCV voucher choose and lease safe, decent, and affordable privately owned rental housing. All participants must be income eligible and have no incidents of violent or drug related criminal activity for the past five (5) years. Maximum rent for a unit is determined through a calculation based on HUD payment standards and family income. Generally, participants pay 30% of their monthly income toward their rent. The number of available vouchers is 1,213. Economic Impact: · As of September 30, 2004, eight hundred and eleven (811) of our HCV families reside in Iowa City. These vouchers represent 5% of the total rental units in the City of Iowa City. · In FY04, the HCV program paid approximately $3,861,551 of Housing Assistance Payments to landlords/owners of rental properties in the City of Iowa City. · The remaining $1,914,111 was distributed to landlord/owners of rental properties in 16 additional communities in our jurisdiction. Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP): SEMAP evaluates the management performance of the Housing Choice Voucher Program by assessing the following: (a) compliance with policies for selecting from the waiting list; (b) reasonableness of rents; (c) when determining adjusted income, is information properly verified and documented; (d) is the utility allowance schedule up-to- date; (e) are a certain number of HQS re-inspections done to ensure quality control; (f) is the timely correction of HQS deficiencies being enforced; (g) are actions being taken to encourage housing opportunities outside areas of poverty and minority concentration; (h) Fair Market Rent limits and Payment Standards; (i) are annual reexaminations done for all participants; (j) are tenant rent calculations correct; (k) does each unit pass HQS inspection before the beginning date of the assisted lease and contract; (1) are all units inspected annually; (m) is the lease-up rate for the fiscal year being met; (n) are families being enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) as required. 72 · Fiscal Year 2003 SEMAP score = 100%. · Designation Status = High Performer. ICI-IA Public Housing and HCV Participant Characteristics: 1. Family Characteristics (Head of Household) a. Families receiving an income = 99% b. Female Head of Household = 72% c. White Head of Household = 68% d. Disabled/elderly Head of Household = 53% e. Families with children = 47% L African/American Head of Household = 28% 2. Income Sources (All Family Members) a. Employment = 31% * b. Social Security (SS) = 20% c. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) = 16% d. Family Investment Program (FIP)(Welfare) = 10% e. Other Non-Wages Sources (e.g., Student Loans) = 9% fi Child Support = 7% g. Pensions = 3% h. Income bom self-employment = 2% i. Unemployment Insurance (UI) = 1% j. No Income Source = 1% · NOTE: The total Heads of Household in the HCV and Public Housing programs is 1,314. There are 698 families where the Head of Household is disabled/elderly. There are 616 families where the head of Household is able-bodied and under the age of 62. Of these 616 families, 455 (74%) of the Heads of Household are receiving income from employment. 73 Housing Needs of Families on the PHA's Waiting Lists 9/30/2004 Waiting list type: (select one) [~ Section 8 tenant-based assistance ~'~ Public Housing [~ Combined Section 8 and Public Housing [~ Public Housing Site-Based or sub-jurisdictional waiting list (optional) If used, identify which development/subjurisdiction: # of families % of total families Annual Turnover Waiting list total 3,109 Extremely low income 2,252 72% <=30% AMI Very low income 56 2% (>30% but <=50% AMI) Low income 258 9% (>50% but <80% AMI) Families with children 2,118 68% Elderly families 147 5% Families with 960 31% Disabilities Race/ethnicity-Black 1,845 59% Race/ethnicity-White 1,148 37% Race/ethnicity-Asian 32 1% Race/ethnicity-All 32 1% Other Characteristics by Bedroom Size 1BR 1,131 36% 2 BR 1,125 36% 3 BR 694 22% 4 BR 155 5% 5 BR 5+ BR 30 1% Is the waiting list closed (select one)? [] No [~ Yes If yes: How long has it been closed (# of months)? Does the PHA expect to reopen the list in the PHA Plan year? [] No [] Yes Does the PHA permit specific categories of families onto the waiting list, even if generally closed? [] No [] Yes 74 Housing Needs of Families on the PHA's Waiting Lists 9/30/2004 Waiting list type: (select one) [] Section 8 tenant-based assistance [] Public Housing [] Combined Section 8 and Public Housing [] Public Housing Site-Based or sub-jurisdictional waiting list (optional) If used, identify which development/sub jurisdiction: # of families % of total families Annual Tumover Waiting list total 1,229 Extremely low income 541 44% <=30% AMI Very low income 0 0% (>30% but <=50% AMI) Low income 61 5 % (>50% but <80% AMI) Families with children 845 69% Elderly families 46 4% Families with 389 32% Disabilities Race/ethnicity-Black 731 59% Race/ethnicity-White 453 37% Race/ethnicity-Asian 11 1% Race/ethnicity-All 13 1% Other Characteristics by Bedroom Size 1BR 421 34% 2 BR 456 37% 3 BR 272 22% 4 BR 67 5% 5 BR 5+ BR 12 1% Is the waiting list closed (select one)? [] No [] Yes If yes: How long has it been closed (# of months)? Does the PHA expect to reopen the list in the PHA Plan year? [] No [] Yes Does the PHA permit specific categories of families onto the waiting list, even if generally closed? [] No [] Yes 75 Housing Needs of Families on the PHA's Waiting Lists 9/30/2004 Waiting list type: (select one) [] Section 8 tenant-based assistance ~-~ Public Housing [--] Combined Section 8 and Public Housing V-] Public Housing Site-Based or sub-jurisdictional waiting list (optional) If used, identify which developmentJsubjurisdiction: # of families % of total families Annual Turnover Waiting list total 1,906 Extremely low income 1,735 91% <=30% AMI Very low income 57 3% (>30% but <=50% AMI) Low income 210 11% (>50% but <80% AMI) Families with children 1,285 67% Elderly families 103 5% Families with 584 31% Disabilities Race/ethnicity-Black 1,129 59% Race/ethnicity-White 705 37% Race/ethnicity-Asian 21 1% Race/ethnicity-All 19 1% Other Characteristics by Bedroom Size 1BR 710 37% 2 BR 669 35% 3 BR 421 22% 4 BR 88 5% 5 BR 5+ BR 18 1% Is the waiting list closed (select one)? [] No [--] Yes If yes: How long has it been closed (# of months)? Does the PHA expect to reopen the list in the PHA Plan year? [] No [] Yes Does the PHA permit specific categories of families onto the waiting list, even if generally closed? [] No [] Yes 76 Assisted Housing: Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program Presently, the Assisted Housing Program (administered by the Iowa City Housing Authority) provides rental assistance to 1,301 housing units throug~h two programs: Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) and Public Housing. Both programs assist families and individuals that arc income eligible (under 50% median income) and meet the definition of family. Both programs occupancy levels are at 100% annually. Table Iii. 11 indicates the assistance distributed under the two programs. Table HI.11: Iowa City Assisted Housing By Type Program Total Public Housing 88 HCVP Existing (vouchers) 1,213 Total 1,301 HUD-Funded Apartments A number of other funding sources are used by both for profit and non-profit entities to provide affordable housing. Table 111.12 shows the number of units provided by each project and its primary HUD funding sources. Table III. 12: Other Assisted Housing Projects Population Funding Source Units Pheasant Ridge Apartments 50% median income families Sec. 236 248 Greater Iowa City Housing Households under 60% median CDBG, HOME 90* Fellowship Income Villa Garden Apartments 60% median income families CDBG, TIF, LIHTCs 48* Autumn Park Elderly Housing Sec. 202 64 Ecumenical Towers Elderly Housing Sec. 202 81 Capitol House Elderly Housing Sec.202 81 Emerson Pointe Elderly under 60% median HOME, LIHTCs 54 Income Citizen Building Elderly & Persons with City CDBG, 18 Disabilities State HOME, LIHTCs Concord Terrace Elderly & Persons with HOME, Lll-rl'Cs 30 Disabilities Lexington Place Elderly & Persons with HOME, LIHTCs 30 Disabilities Regency I Elderly & Persons with HOME, LIHTCs 37 Disabilities Regency II Elderly & Persons with LIHTCs 37 Disabilities Systems Unlimited Developmentally Disabled Sec.811 18 Adults TOtal 836 *Units also utilize HCVP assistance; these units are included in the numbers shown in Table III. 12. 77 III C. Homeless Facilities 1. Inventory of Facilities for Persons who are Homeless A. Emergency Shelter Iowa City non-profits operate three emergency shelters that serve the needs of the homeless community. From July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2004 these shelters report serving 892 families, individuals, and unaccompanied minors. Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP): Thirty-five to forty -bed emergency shelter for female victims of domestic violence and their children. The new facility was constructed in 1994. In 2003, the shelter received new siding and two additional sheds were built. Average use: 35-40 beds/night (limited capacity due to staffing, total capacity 60). Average stay: 44 days; maximum stay is 90 days Total Persons sheltered in FY04:275 Total Number of shelter days: 12,335 Shelter House Community Shelter and Transition Services (formerly Emergency Housing Project (EHP): Twenty-nine bed facility providing emergency/transient and short-term transitional shelter for men, women, and accompanied minors who are experiencing homelessness in Johnson County. Turn-of-the-century single-family home converted for use as a shelter in 1984. Upgrading of kitchen, office space, and fire safety measures occurred in 1992. Additional improvements were made in 1998 and 1999 with CDBG funds. Shelter House has been working on a campaign to finance a new facility that would increase its capacity to 70. In 2003, Shelter House was allocated CDBG funding to purchase land for the construction of a new shelter. Average use: '31 individuals per night/day *Capacity never exceeds 29 persons on a given night. The shelter "double uses" beds across individual work schedules. For example, if a particular client works third shift his/her bed would be vacant and available during the night. The bed space can therefore be utilized by another client. The client working 'third shift would actually occupy the bed over the daytime hours. Average stay: 70 % of total clients stay is 30 days or less. Maximum stay of 90 days. Total Persons sheltered in FY04:461 unduplicated count Total Number of shelter nights: 11,333 Four Oaks Youth Homes Emergency Shelter: Youth Emergency Shelter: 14 bed youth emergency shelter provides emergency and temporary care, counseling and supervision to runaway and homeless youth, ages 12-17. Facility was converted for use as a halfway house in 1987 and adapted as emergency shelter in 1994. Average Use: 12-14 beds a night Average Stay for FY04:33 days Total Admissions FY04:156 78 B. Transitional Housing Transitional housing serves as a bridge between shelter and permanent housing by providing housing with supportive services to assist individuals toward greater independence. Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP): Forty units of supported transitional housing for families. The program includes 2 mobile homes, 3 houses, 18 3-bedroom town houses, and 17 condominiums. HACAP is the process of acquiring more condominium style units. Average use: All 40 units are full; there is a waiting list of 42 eligible families. As the only transitional housing programs for families in the community, HACAP's program always has long waiting lists. Very little turnover in the program means families can sometimes wait two years for available space. Situations at times have become so desperate that HACAP staff has reluctantly suggested that families look to other communities for more affordable housing opportunities. Hillcrest Family Services, Birch Street House: 5-bed group home that accommodates adults with serious mental illness. Emphasis is placed on skill building and development of reentry into the community. Average use: 5 individuals; fluctuating waiting list of 1-10 individuals. Successful Living: Alpha House: Twenty-one SRO style rooming units for persons living alone and working. Residents must utilize supportive services. Maximum stay is two years. Dodge Street: Nine SRO style rooming units for persons living alone and working. Church Street: Eight SRO style rooming units for women living alone and working. Residents must utilize supportive services. Maximum stay is two years. Four Oaks/Youth Homes: Johnson Street House: Supervised Apartment Living (formerly Independent Living): Structured community independent living services to help youth ages 16-20 aging out of foster care or homeless to become self sufficient adults. A variety of apartments, supervision levels, and support services are available. Older home converted for transitional housing use in 1990. Average use: 4-5 youth Average stay: 6 months-year Courtlinn Residential Treatment: Ten-bed, long-term, residential facility (therapeutic group foster care) for young women ages 12-17. Average Use: 10 individuals Average Stay: 9 months-1 year 79 Mid-Eastern Council on Chemical Abuse (MECCA) A twelve unit transitional apartment complex (10 2-bedroom and 2 3-bedroom units) with safe, affordable, drug free housing in combination with substance abuse treatment and access to community resources to address the special needs of recovering parents and their children. The apartments are furnished and a "starter" package of household items is provided to each family. Residents receive counseling and support from MECCA and other community agencies for issues such as homelessness, substance abuse, budgeting, mental health, domestic violence, sexual abuse, parenting, nutrition, employment, and prenatal and family healthcare. The facility was constructed in 2001, withtwenty-five percent of the construction costs being funded by thc Community Development Block Grant. (No conversions, rehabilitation, or remode[ing in the last 5 years) Average use: Sixteen families; 9 of the 16 families currently reside in MECCA apartments. Currently have one opening and several applicants. Average stay: Two years in length to offer recovering parents support over an extended length of time. C. Permanent Supportive Housing Chatham Oaks: 114-bed, 24-hour residential care facility for persons with disabilities. The majority of thc residents have some form of mental illness. Chatham Oaks provides rehabilitative activities and encourages community involvement. In 2004-2005, a private group is expecting to add 8-16 units for supervised living. Average use: 90 individuals. REM-Coralville: Eight bcd residential environment for adults with developmental disabilities. This is a private, for profit, long-term care facility featuring outside supportive work environments, and 24-hour supervision. Average use: 8 individuals. Systems Unlimited Residential Environments: Forty-three group living environments at scattered sites throughout the community with a total of 185 beds providing permanent supportive housing for persons with developmental disabilities. The program provides support and training to help each individual maximize personal abilities. Systems Unlimited houses 11 persons under age 18 and 137 adults with developmental disabilities. D. Permanent Housing Assisted Housing Programs: Administered by thc Iowa City Housing Authority, the programs provide rental assistance to 1,276 households in two programs: Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Program Table III.13: Number and Size of Units Assiste{1 Dy Iowa LI[ ASSlStefl l'lOU~Slll~ Program Efficiency 1-BR 2-BR 3-BR 4-BR 5-BR Total Public _ _ 24 54 15 _ _ 91 Housing HCVP 19 331 554 243 35 1 1,183 Existing (vouchers)* Total 19 331 578 297 50 1 1,274 * The above numbers reflect current participants under lease. These numbers fluctuate monthly and cannot exceed the annual budgeted amount listed in Table III. 13 at fiscal year end. 80 Private Low-Income Housing: Pheasant Ridge: A private apartment complex in Iowa City serving low-income residents, has received HUD funding for original construction and on-going operating costs. 231 of thc 248 units arc reserved as assisted units: (77) 1-bedroom; (76) 2-bedroom; (70) 3-bedroom; and (8) 4-bedroom assisted units. Average Usc: capacity, with a waiting list of 190 households Villa Gardens: Constructed by a local for-profit developer using a variety of funding sources including CDBG, Tax Increment Financing from thc City of Iowa City, and Federal Home Loan Bank Funds. 48 units of affordable rental housing: (32) 2-bedroom; and (16) 3-bedroom Non Profit Low-Income Housing: Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF) 90 units of affordable housing throughout Iowa City. 32 Duplexes [(1) 1-bedroom, (21) 2-bedroom, (10) 3-bedroom units] at scattered sites throughout the community. 9 2-bedroom scattered site condos. 16 townhouses (8 2-bedroom, 8 3-bedroom) 33 single-family homes ((4) 2-bedroom, (25) 3-bedroom, (4) 4-bedroom). Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship uses a variety of funding sources for development of its program including HOME, CDBG, Federal Home Loan Bank, and private lenders and contributors. 2. Inventory of Services for Persons who are Homeless or Living in Transitional Housing Child Care Resources Community Coordinated Child Care (4C's) - Hometies Hawkeye Area Community Action Program HACAP)- Head Start Handicare Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County PAL Program of Youth Homes Crisis Services Crisis Center Domestic Violence Intervention Programs Shelter House Johnson County Department of Human Services Rape Victim Advocacy Program 81 Red Cross Salvation Army Employment Services Goodwill Industries Iowa City Workforce Center Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) Promise Jobs Food Agape Caf6 Crisis Center Free Lunch Program Johnson County WIC Program Salvation Army SHARE Johnson County Furnishings Fumiture Project Goodwill Industries Crowded Closet Consignment shops Healthcare Dental Care for Kids Free Medical Clinic Johnson County Dept. of Public Health - Child Health Clinic Special Care Dental Program University of Iowa College of Dentistry VA Hospital Visiting Nurses Association of Johnson County University of Iowa College of Nursing students Housing and Housin~ Suooort Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF) Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity Iowa City Housing Authority LIFE Skills Successful Living Private Landlords Mental Health Community Mental Health Center Crisis Center PATH (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics VA Hospital 82 Special Populations The Arc of Johnson County Elder Services, Inc Evert Conner Center for Independent Living Iowa Center for AIDS Resources and Education (ICARE) Substance Abuse Treatment Mid-Eastern Council on Chemical Abuse (MECCA) Transportation Free/Reduced Fare Bus Tickets Johnson County Seats Youth Services Mayor's Youth Empowerment Program United Action for Youth Four Oaks Youth Homes ICCSD Family Resource Centers 83 III D. SPECIAL NEEDS FACILITIES AND SERVICES 1. Inventory of Supportive Housing Facilities for Non-Homeless Special Needs Populations Iowa City and Johnson County support a number of supportive housing facilities occupied by persons with special needs. These residential facilities serves persons with physical and mental disabilities, persons who are elderly, youth, and substance abuse patients. The following is a list of facilities in Iowa City, the populations they serve, and the capacity of the facility. Facility Population Served Capacity Four Oaks - Group Homes Unaccompanied youth 14 Four Oaks - Supervised Apartment Living Homeless youth aged 16-20 12 Systems Unlimited - Group Homes SAL Persons with developmental disabilities 135 Chatham Oaks, Inc. Persons with mental illness, mental 114 Retardation or physical disabilities Mid-Eastern Council on Chemical Abuse Substance abuse patients 12 Concord Terrace Persons who are elderly or disabled 30 Lexington Place Persons who arc elderly or disabled 30 Regency I Persons who are elderly or disabled 37 Regency II Persons who are elderly or disabled 37 Citizen Building Persons who are elderly or disabled' 18 Ecumenical Towers Persons who are elderly 81 Greenwood Manor (Nursing Home) Convalescent care 87 Lantern Park (Nursing Home) Frail elderly men and women 100 Oaknoll (Multi-levels, includes nursing home Persons who are elderly 48 care) Autumn Park Persons who are elderly or disabled 64 Capitol House Persons who are elderly or disabled 81 Liberty Square (North Liberty) Persons who are elderly 35 Coral Village (Coralville) Persons who are elderly or disabled 57 ~trium Village (Hills) Persons who are elderly & have long-term 30 Health problems Emerson Pointe Persons who are elderly under 60% median 54 income Eastside Village (Lone Tree) Persons who are elderly Not Available Heritage Manor Apartments Persons who are elderly Not Available Windmill Pointe (Coralville) Persons who are elderly 40 Walden Place Persons who are elderly 10 Dom. Violence Intervention Program Victims of domestic violence & their 60 families Ronald McDonald House Families with a child undergoing medical 32 treatment Lone Tree Care Center (Lone Tree Persons who are elderly or disabled 46 Solon Nursing Care (Solon) Convalescent care 68 REM-Coralville Persons with mental retardation 8 Reach for Your Potential Persons with mental retardation 20 Iowa Veterans Home (Marshalltown) Veterans with geriatric or chronic illness 830 84 Iowa City Rehabilitation and Health Care Center Persons who are elderly 89 Veterans with medical, surgical and 93 Iowa City VA Medical Center rehabilitative care 2. Inventory of Services that Assist Non-Homeless Persons with Special Needs Assistance to Persons with a Disabilit~ Alliance for the Mentally Ill of Johnson County (AMIJC) Alzheimer's Association, East Central Iowa Chapter Alzheimer's Support Group-University of Iowa Arc of Johnson County Breath of Fresh Air Support Group-Mercy Hospital Camp Courageous of Iowa Chatham Oaks, Inc. Clearinghouse Deaf Services Commission of Iowa Department of Veteran's Affairs Medical Center Hospital Based Home Care Diabetes Association, American (Iowa Affiliate, Inc.) East Side Village Easter Seal Society of Iowa, Inc. Elder Services, Inc. Employment Systems (formerly Nelson Center) Epilepsy Association of Iowa Evert Conner Center for Independent Living, Inc. Four Oaks/Youth Homes, Inc. Pursuing Adventures in Learning (PAL) Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa CORE-Community RE- entry for persons with brain injury Grant Wood Area Education Agency Child Evaluation Clinic Handicare, Inc. Hawkeye Health Services, Inc. Home Life Medical Service, Inc. InfoTech Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School Iowa City, City of Department Parks and Recreation, Recreation Division Housing Authority Housing Rehabilitation Office Public Library Iowa Department for the Blind Iowa Department of Human Services, Johnson County Iowa Department of Transportation, Driver's License Department Iowa Pilot Parents, Inc. Iowa Protection and Advocacy Services, Johnson County Iowa Veteran's Home 85 Iowa Workforce Development (formerly Job Service of Iowa) Job Opportunities of Johnson County, Inc. Johnson County, Cotmty of Chatham Oaks Mental Health Advocate Mental Health Developmental Disabilities Services Unit Learning Disabilities Association of Johnson County LIFE Skills, Inc. Low Vision Support Group (Formerly Age-Related Macuiar Degeneration Support Group) March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, Eastern Iowa Mercy Hospital Home Health Care Lifeline Stroke Club Multiple Sclerosis Support Group Iowa City Muscular Dystrophy Association Pathways Adult Day Health Program (formerly Adult Day Program) Pheasant Ridge Apartments Pursuing Adventures in Learning (PAL) Reach for Your Potential REM-IOWA, Inc. Relay Iowa SEATS (Special Elderly and Handicapped Transportation System) Johnson County Shared Housing Program Social Security Administration Stroke Club Systems, Unlimited, Inc. Threshold University of Iowa Services for Persons with Disabilities; Office of Speech and Hearing Clinic; Veterans' Service Office University of Iowa-Hospitals and Clinics Alzheimer's Support Group Child Development Clinic Child Psychiatry Service Division of Developmental Disabilities Mobile and Regional Child Health Specialty Clinics University of Iowa-Dental College of Dentistry Dental Care for Persons with Disabilities Geriatric Mobile Dental Unit/Special Care Clinic Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, Department of Hospital Based Home Care Visiting Nurse Association of Johnson County (VNA) Vocational Rehabilitation Services Division of Wendell Johnson Speech and Heating Clinic, University of Iowa 86 Assistance to Persons Who Are Elderly Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Support Group, University of Iowa American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) Atrium Village Caregiver's Support Group Case Management for the Elderly Coralville Autumn Club Department of Veteran's Affairs Medical Center Hospital Based Home Care East Side Village Elderly Access Programs, Iowa Dental Association Elder Services, Inc. Case Management for the Elderly Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Shared Housing Program Friendly Folks Golden Age Club of Iowa City Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) Heritage Area Agency on Aging Legal Service Program · Home-Delivered Meals Home Life Health Services, Inc. Home Life Medical Services, Inc. Hospice, Inc., Iowa City Human Services, Department of, Johnson County Iowa City Rehabilitation and Health Care Center (formerly Iowa City Care Center) Iowa Veteran's Home Lone Tree Senior Citizens' Club Low Vision Support Group (formerly Age-Related Macular Degeneration Support Group) Mercy Hospital Home Health Care Lifeline Seniors Unlimited National Association of Retired Federal Employees Pathways Adult Day Health Program Pheasant Ridge Apartments Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) SEATS (Special Elderly and Handicapped Transportation System) Johnson County Senior Center, Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Peer Counseling Program Shared Housing Program Social Security Administration Solon Senior Citizens Speech and Hearing Clinic, Wendell Johnson, University of Iowa University of Iowa-Hospital and Clinics Alzheimer's Support Group 87 University of Iowa- Dental College of Dentistry Geriatric Mobile Dental Unit/Special Care Clinic Veteran's Affairs Medical Center Hospital Based Home Care Visiting Nurse Association of Johnson County (VNA) 3. Supportive Housing and Programs for Persons returning from Mental and Physical Health Institutions Please see section II.C .1.b HOMELESS FACILITIES. These facilities serve both homeless and non-homeless persons with special needs. Additionally, Hillcrest Family Services offers an independent living program to nearly 100 individuals with mental illness. This program provides supportive services, mental health counseling, and living skills training to assist individuals in reaching their highest degree of self-sufficiency. A discussion of the need for transitional housing for persons with special needs can be found in Section II.C 2.c. III E. Barriers to Affordable Housing The housing situation in Iowa City is atypical for most of Iowa. Iowa is the home of a highly educated, professional and academic workforce and the University of Iowa. A high median household income ($72,100 for a family of four as determined by 2004 HUD Income Guidelines) from the academic and professional workforce translates into a demand for larger homes, which adds to existing high land values. In addition, the large student population increases competition for affordable rental units, especially in the downtown area and close to campus. Housing vacancy rates are at 4% in Iowa City. The chart below shows a comparison of Iowa City to other Iowa Communities. Overall, Iowa City's cost of living is higher than most Iowa communities with the exception of Cedar Rapids. Iowa City is ranked as the 2na least affordable place to live in Iowa. 88 City-To-City-Cost-of Living Comparison 100.0 = All-City Average All-Item Housing Food Utilities Transport. Health Misc. Index Index Index Index Index Care Goods & Index Svc. Index Iowa Communities Ames 91.7 82.0 89.3 101.0 103.0 97.3 Burlington 94.2 86.6 97.2 85.2 101.6 89.1 103.1 Cedar Rapids 98.6 99.6 91.0 110.7 100.6 93.2 99.1 Des Moines 94.8 86.4 93.5 99.0 100.8 96.7 102.2 Iowa City 95.7 89.0 95.2 98.4 102.1 98.3 100.7 Mason City 95.5 88.6 97.4 114.5 95.1 90.4 98.6 Davenport 88.2 64.2 100.2 98.3 97.5 98.1 102.0 Waterloo 85.6 60.3 94.3 103.7 100.0 89.7 99.8 Source: www. datamasters, corn: Sperlings' Best Places, duly 2003 The chart below shows a comparison of Iowa City to other college communities. Rochester is included as it has a large medical community similar to Iowa City. Iowa City ranks relatively close in housing affordability with other college communities. Compared to other regional college communities, Iowa City's cost of living is low. Champaign, Illinois was the most affordable in this comparison. All-Item Housing Food Utilities Transport. Health Misc. Index Index Index Index Index Care Goods & Index Svc. Index Selected College Communities Champaign, IL 93.9 82.6 97.2 98.1 101.0 96.6 101.6 Bloomington, 1N 101.5 100.9 108.9 103.7 95.6 96.9 100.3 Iowa City, IA 95.7 89.0 95.2 98.4 102.1 98.3 100.7 Ann Arbor, MI 117.0 150.0 107.4 85.5 97.9 100.9 102.2 St. Cloud, MN 98.2 89.8 99.1 99.9 101.8 108.1 104.0 Mankato, MN 101.1 89.6 98.9 103.0 108.0 132.9 106.5 Rochester, MN 105.7 108.5 101.2 93.8 105.0 123.0 105.1 Source: www. datamasters, corn: Sperlings' Best Places, duly 2003 According to HUD's Federal Register Notice (April 24, 2004) regarding the criteria on removal of regulatory barriers, the City has actively reviewed its policies to increase the supply of affordable housing through the removal of regulatory barriers to affordable housing. Please review the following City actions. 1. Public Polices Affecting Affordable Housing Overall, the City has few of the bamers that are normally considered to be exclusionary. The City encourages small lots, mixed-use housing, allows manufactured housing in single-family residential zones, and it uses a number of federal, state, and private programs for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of affordable units. It is the City's policy to pursue funding for affordable housing and to establish public/private partnerships. 88 Low vacancy rates and the lack of appropriately zoned vacant land or abandoned buildings, combine with the fact that the City does not own any tax-delinquent properties, makes it difficult for the City to develop affordable housing on its own. The Iowa City Housing Authority has scattered-site housing units available, but the development of new units is expensive. As a result, the costs associated with building new affordable housing units acts as a barrier to the City's endeavors to address this problem. Currently, the City is developing a new neighborhood of approximately 385 units on the north side of Iowa City located on a City-owned peninsula created by the Iowa River. Construction has begun with a complete build out anticipated in 5 years. The Peninsula Neighborhood will be a traditional style development modeled after Iowa City's older neighborhoods. Streets will be narrower than in conventional subdivisions and alleys will provide access to garages. This will allow for a pedestrian friendly environment with more landscaping and less paving in the front of the houses. There will be a mixture of housing with townhouses, apartment buildings, and detached single-family houses occupying the same block. There may also be "live work units" with offices or shops on the first floor and apartments on upper floors. The Peninsula has the potential to provide affordable housing through small lot and house sizes and accessory apartments above garages. However, affordability over the long term will be a difficult problem for the Peninsula Neighborhood due to the anticipated attractiveness of the neighborhood. The desirability of the Peninsula as a place to live will cause upward pressure on housing prices. While the Peninsula may have a small percentage of lower cost housing, there may be mechanisms used to ensure long-term affordability such as affordability covenants or non-profit ownership of some units. Other local agencies such as the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) and the Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF) have partnered up to build affordable housing units in the Peninsula Neighborhood. The federal "fair market rent" guidelines that establish maximum rents for affordable housing projects will significantly impact the development of new units. With the recent increases in utility allowances, developers/owners may be discouraged to develop additional affordable housing as higher utility allowances reduce the amount of rent that can be collected. Federal policy regarding guidelines for affordable housing have been in constant flux, making planning for the development of affordable housing very difficult. To help promote housing affordability the City has a utility discount program available to low- income households. This utility discount program lowers the monthly minimum water/sewer bills by 60% and the garbage/recycling bill by 75%. 2. Tax Policies That Affect Land and Other Property Residential role back in 2004 is equal to 48% +-. This means that over 1/2 of the assessed value of "residential" property is exempt from property taxes. This is largely a benefit to homeowners as rental properties are predominately classified as commercial property and taxed at 100% of its assessed value. 3. Land Use Controls and Zoning Ordinances The City of Iowa City zoning ordinance and land use regulations does permit manufactured housing in all residential districts and zoning classifications in which similar site-built housing is 89 permitted. This is subject to design, density, building size, foundation requirements, and other similar requirements applicable to other housing. Demand for low-density single-family housing developments in the past have also limited the interest in more intensive residential development. There is a prevalence of RS-5 (5 units to an acre) zones, and values for houses with larger lots have remained high and not very affordable. There is currently very little vacant land zoned for multi-family development within Iowa City, and attempts to rezone some residential areas have encountered resistance from neighbors opposed to more intensive development, especially the construction of apartments in single- family areas. Their concerns about the impact of more intensive development, such as increased traffic, building scale and design, noise and demands on services, and the lengthy rezoning process during which these concerns usually arise, have created additional barriers to the construction of more affordable housing units. Even when development is not a higher density, such as in a manufactured housing park, neighborhood concerns about devaluation of their property and other factors make rezoning difficult. The Comprehensive Plan has attempted to address these concerns by identifying appropriate areas for townhouses and apartments. The Plan encourages development of moderate density housing in locations that have good access to collector and arterial streets and parks and open space. The Plan also encourages that multi-family buildings to be designed in a scale and manner which is compatible with the neighborhoods in which they will be built. The City has also used the district planning process to bring more focus to the policies of the Comprehensive Plan and to involve property owners and neighborhood residents in the process of identifying locations for townhouses and apartment buildings. The City has established time limits for government review and approval or disapproval of development permits in which failure to act, after which the application is deemed complete, by the government within the designated time period, results in automatic approval. However, not all affordable housing projects are required to undergo public review or special heatings when the project is otherwise in complete compliance with the zoning ordinance and other development regulations. The City has initiated the "Good Neighbor" policy to encourage developers to meet with their neighbors prior to submitting a rezoning or development application to the Planning and Zoning Commission. The focus of these meetings is to help inform neighborhoods about developments and help developers identify issues and possible solutions. When developers have used the Good Neighbor policy their developments have been less controversial and their proposals have received greater community acceptance. The City implemented an open Space ordinance and impact fee in 1994. Developers are required to dedicate land to be preserved as neighborhood open space or to contribute an equivalent amount of money to go toward open space acquisition. Open space can be an important element in planning functioning neighborhoods, however, it can affect housing prices. Requiring land to be incorporated into the development as open space as a payment could increase development costs. Therefore, increasing housing and/or rent costs. Subdivision and infrastructure requirements may also be considered as barriers to affordable housing. Standards such as road width could possibly be reduced in some areas to lessen the costs of infrastructure and hence the cost of housing construction while still maintaining acceptable levels of safety and infrastructure quality. The City has encouraged Planned Unit 90 Developments (PUDS) and has an overlay zone that enables developers to cluster housing which may cut infrastructure expenses. The City is in the process of modifying infrastructure standards and/or authorizations of the uses of new infrastructure technologies. (i.e. water, sewer, street with) to significantly reduce the cost of housing. The 2003 Housing Inventory Memo indicated that planning housing unit subdivisions "were becoming more prevalent than those for multi-family housing and single-family homes and duplexes." The reduced number of planned units built in 2003 may imply a saturated market for these homes. The construction of multi-family units may frequently experience "peaks and valleys" of activities similar to the pattern surfacing for planned unit projects (Housing Inventory Memo, 2003). The City has established a single, consolidated permit application process for housing development that include building, zoning, environmental, and related permits. It also allows "accessory apartments" either as a special exception or conditional use in all single-family residential areas or in a majority of residential districts otherwise zoned for single-family housing. 4. Building Codes, Fees, and Charges During 1999-2002 the City upgraded the sewage treatment plant and in February 2002, constructed a new water plant. In order to pay for the construction, water user fees increased 40% and sewer fees increased by 35% from 1995-2000. Since 2000 sewer fees have increased 3- 5%. Since the completion of the water plant (2002) water user fees have decreased 5% for two consecutive fiscal years. The new water plant has shown a major improvement in water quality and the distribution system. Prior to the new water plant's construction the City could only produce a capacity of 12 million gallons of water per day. Currently, with the new water plant a capacity of 16.7 million gallons of water is produced. Though Iowa City does not require construction measures in excess of the International Residential Code (IRC) several IRC-approved construction practices that could be used to reduce construction costs are not being implemented by local contractors. Some measures to reduce costs include increasing space between studs, using straight-gable roofs, and careful planning of the location of plumbing and electrical fixtures to reduce the number of fixtures used. Combined with the other factors contributing to the high costs of constructing new units, local construction practices adding to the costs of housing lessen the likelihood that newly constructed traits would be "affordable" to low-and moderate-income households. The City does not provide any waivers on impact fees, or other significant fees for affordable housing. 5. Growth Limits Planned growth through the "phasing in" of the infrastructure and services as identified in Iowa City's Comprehensive Plan, is intended to limit development to areas adjacent to those currently served, thus allowing for the orderly extension of infrastructure. Growth is also limited by the fact that some services (e.g. sewers) are presently at capacity in certain parts of the City. However, urban growth is proceeding mainly with the development of single-family subdivisions, with costs ranging from $150,000-$375,000 per home. Development that does occur where services are not in 91 place must incorporate the provision of water, sewer, streets, and other infrastructure into their design. In other words, development that occurs out of sequence has to pay all infrastructure costs vs. sharing the costs with the City. Therefore, raising the development costs of each housing trait. As a result, prices of new homes reflect these increased costs and are beyond the reach of lower- income households. The absence of vacant inffil lots also acts as a barrier, limiting the extent that the City can expand its affordable housing stock. Typically, the few existing infill lots are zoned for less-dense development and are located in low-density single-family neighborhoods. The City is experimenting with various ways of providing affordable single-family housing on these lots. Methods include moving donated houses, sweet equity of future owners, and modular homes. 6. Policies that Affect the Return on Residential Investment Though Iowa City does not employ policies that directly affect the return on residential investment, the combination of high demand for housing, the phasing in of new housing developments, and the land use and zoning restrictions implemented have protected residential investments. Market forces determine a developers/builders ability to maximize their return on investment. As Iowa City has one of the most active housing markets in the state, the median cost of single-family dwelling units have increased from $111,174 to $145,000, or 30.4% between 1994 and 2003 (3.4% annually). Forty-nine percent of owner-occupied homes in Iowa City are valued between $100,000 and 180,000. However, due to the constantly increasing value of housing, the number of homes in this price range is shrinking annually. For example, the average cost of a home built in Iowa City in 2003 was $201,379, not including the price of the lot which can range from $30,000-$100,000. (Source: Iowa City Building Permits issued for 2003). 7. Dissemination of Information Lack of information about the availability of housing and services for low- and moderate-income households acts as a barrier to securing affordable housing. One of the misconceptions that is prevalent in Iowa City among the general citizenry is that all housing needs are being met, either by the private market, by the City, or by non-profit agencies. Through public, for-profit, and non- profit agencies in the City, available resources do not stretch far enough to cover everyone's needs; some housing needs go unmet. As the number of households requiring assistance continues to increase, agencies are finding it more difficult to secure the necessary funding to meet those needs. 8. Community Attitudes As with any community, there is varying degrees of resistance to integrating low-income families into established neighborhoods. "Not In My Back Yard" (NIMBY) concerns over the effect on property values of locating low-income households have acted as a barrier in some Iowa City neighborhoods. These fears most often arise from misconceptions regarding thc lifestyle and needs of low-income families. Neighborhood opposition to low-income housing projects makes finding feasible sites more difficult. Adjacent property owners and neighborhood groups cited concerns such as aesthetics, crime, and declining property values as reasons for the opposition. The reluctance of property owners to sell properties to the City or other developers of affordable housing at prices making affordable housing construction feasible have also limited the viability of projects; some owners have operated on thc assumption that thc City or subsidized housing 92 developers have "deep pockets" and will pay for land based on speculative development values. Additionally, speculative buying has increased values for undeveloped land around the City's fringes. Often undeveloped land is held by a speculator until the property is re-zoned, thus increasing the land value and maximizing his/her return. Furthermore, it has been suggested that local "peer pressure" has deterred property owners further from selling land in particular neighborhoods for the creation of "low income" housing. The City of Iowa City has maintained a dialogue with the public in order to educate the public about the need for and importance of providing affordable housing. The community housing forum was one such project. This has lead to a somewhat growing acceptance of affordable housing projects. Additionally, the City has implemented programs to entice private developers to build affordable housing. This has been done through such programs as low-interest general obligation bonds. Further education of the public and increased use of the City's affordable housing programs by developers is still needed to promote the development of affordable housing projects in the future. 9. Five Year Strategy Currently, the City is in the process of re-writing its zoning and subdivision codes and is exploring ways to reduce barriers to affordable housing. The goals of the re-write project are to: · Implement the goals and policies of the Comprehensive Plan; · Identify regulatory barriers to the provision of affordable housing; · General "clean-up" of the Code; · Streamline the development process and; · Revise the format, content, and organization of the Code. In January 2001, Duncan and Associates prepared a Development Regulations Analysis of Iowa City. Two of the City's stated objectives in commissioning this study were to identify (1) regulatory barriers to the provision of affordable housing and (2) methods to reduce development costs. Findings suggest that the City's existing regulations do not appear to overburden the market's ability to provide affordable housing or unduly restrict residential and nonresidential development opportunities. However, one possible barrier to the provision of affordable housing may be the City's relative lack of vacant land zoned for higher density single-family and multi- family development, and in Iowa City-as in many communities-there is often strong resistance to establishing such zones (Duncan and Associates-Development Regulations Analysis, 2001). The analysis offered a variety of proposed changes to reduce barriers to affordable housing: · Revision to the RS-5 zone to allow duplexes and attached single family on comer lots; · Revision to the RS-5 zone to be primarily a small-lot single-family zone, allowing duplexes and attached single family only on comer lots; · Retain and revision of the RS-12 zone to accommodate a variety of residential uses on narrower lots, including single family, duplexes, and townhouses; · Loosen the restrictions on accessory apartments and, · Reduce lot size requirements and setbacks to accommodate more compact development. 93 III F. Housing Discrimination The City of Iowa City has been working to address issues of housing and other types of discrimination for many years. The most recent accomplishment is HUD's recognition of Iowa City's Human Rights Ordinance as being "substantially equivalent." With this designation the City is able to investigate and litigate cases of discrimination. This enables a more timely and effective process. The Iowa City Human Rights Commission enforces the Human Rights Ordinance, Title 2, Iowa City Municipal Code. The Human Rights Ordinance is Iowa City's anti-discrimination law. The law gives the Human Rights Commission staff the authority to investigate allegations of discrimination in the areas of employment credit transactions, education, public accommodations and housing. It is the mission of the Human Rights Commission to eradicate discrimination in Iowa City, based on age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. In the area of housing, discrimination based on familial status, presence or absence of dependents or public assistance source of income is also prohibited. The Human Rights Ordinance gives the Commission the authority to enforce the law prohibiting discrimination. Upon a finding of probable cause, Human Rights Commission staff conciliates an agreement between the parties involved in a complaint. In addition, the Commission has the responsibility of educating the public on harassment and other forms of discrimination. The Commission works to protect citizens from unfounded charges of discrimination. The Human Rights Commission is a quasi-judicial body composed of nine volunteer members appointed by the City Council. Each member serves a three-year term. Appointments to the Human Rights Commission take into consideration men and women of various racial, religious, cultural and socio-economic groups in Iowa City. COMPLAINT ACTIVITY During the period from July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2004, thirty-five (35) complaints were filed with the Iowa City Human Rights Commission. Of these, five, or 14% were housing related. Both the Human Rights Office and the Iowa City Housing Authority provide landlord and tenant education and outreach. COMPLAINTS AI,I,EGING ONE BASIS OF DISCRIMINATION Race 9 Retaliation 1 Sexual Orientation 1 Marital Status 1 Sex 4 COMPLAINTS A11,EGING MORE THAN ONE BASIS OF DISCRIMINATION Race & National Origin 1 Race, Sex, Sexual Orientation 1 Sex, Sexual Orientation & Retaliation 1 Sex & Retaliation 1 94 Race & Disability or Perceived Disability 1 Race & Age 1 Age & Sex 1 Race, Sex & Marital Status 1 Race, Color, Sex & Sexual Orientation 1 Race & Color 7 Gender Identity, Retaliation & Sexual 1 Orientation Sex (pregnancy) & Marital Status 1 Sex (pregnancy) & Race 1 Total Number of Complaints = 35 The following actions were undertaken by the City of Iowa City, in the City's fiscal year 2004 (July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2004), to affirmatively further fair housing. Please see the Human Rights Commission's Annual Report in Appendix 5. The report provides specific accomplishments for the fiscal year. Actions Taken to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing Actions Taken Results Outreach through weekly advertisements in local Phone calls and walk-in inquiries newspapers regarding fair housing discrimination Regular monitoring by Human Rights Coordinator for Advertisers who placed thc illegal ads arc illegal advertisements contacted by thc Human Rights Commission and )rovidcd educational materials Public Service Announcements on Housing Discrimination Education and outreach-Get informal and formal are shown on the local cable TV (government channel-4) complaints Pamphlets and posters on the fair housing discrimination Increased public awareness of housing laws are disseminated to the community organizations and discrimination are displayed at the University, Civic Center, Library and on City buses Educational video (Fair Housing Law) is made available to Increased public knowledge of Fair Housing the community Laws Referrals of housing discrimination complaints outside Interagency cooperation Iowa City's jurisdiction were made to HUD and the Iowa Civil Rights Commission Analysis of Fair Housing Practices and Impediments was Update of documents addressed deficiencies in updated the existing Analysis of Fair Housing Practices and Impediments (Al) Discrimination Complaints were received by the Human Complaints were addressed as necessary (see Rights Coordinator Human Rights Commission Annual Report) ANALYSIS Approximately 83% of the total number of cases filed were in the area of employment. As noted in the charts above, 7 of the complaints allege discrimination based on race and color, while 9 complaints contend race was the single basis for the discriminatory act or actions. Race is listed as a factor in 8 of the cases alleging more than one basis of discrimination. In total, 24 of the 35 complainants believed race was the sole factor or one of the factors the respondent impermissibly considered prior to taking their discriminatory action. 95 COMPLAINT RESOLUTION IN FISCAL YEAR 2004 17 No probable cause decisions; 2 Probable cause decision resulting in settlement agreement; 1 Probable cause decision with subsequent not litigation worthy determination & Administrative closure; 1 Settlement agreement without decision on the merits; 11 Mediation agreements; 2 Administrative closures; Total Resolutions=34 96 IV. Strategic Plan 9'7 IV A. GENERAL FORMAT OF THE STRATEGIC PLAN The strategic plan is a general overview of Iowa City's plan for housing, jobs, and services for low- income residents for the next five years. This section of the Consolidated Plan (CITY STEPS) will show the types of projects or activities that we envision taking place, initiated by the City or by other organizations. Since this is a five-year overview, the numbers relating to units, households and funds are rough estimates (based upon the past uses of federal funds). 1. General Priorities for Allocating Investment Iowa City expects to receive a total of approximately $1,500,000 in federal funds (CDBG & HOME) annually. Other federal funds for specific programs like the Housing Choice Voucher Program is already designated by the federal government for a specific use (i.e. rent assistance). The City has established a citizen-oriented method for allocating CDBG and HOME funds. The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) is a nine member citizen advisory commission to the City Council. As funding becomes available, annually, this commission hears proposals from numerous local organizations (both non-profits and for-profits) and the City itself. Once the presentations are heard this commission ranks each proposal according to pre-determined factors (see ranking criteria in Appendix 5). The most important factor is "addressing a priority need, identified in the CITY STEPS Plan." Projects requesting funding must address one of these needs, and since funding is limited, the proposals meeting a "HIGH" or "MEDIUM" priority need are given the highest rating. Once the projects are ranked, the commission makes their funding recommendation to the City Council. The City Council reviews the recommendation and makes revisions, as needed, and then votes to adopt the funding allocations of CDBG and HOME monies as part of the one year Action Plan. a. Geographically Iowa City is a fairly homogenous community with no areas of heavy low-income or minority concentrations in areas with concentrations of deteriorated housing. The residential central city area surrounding the University of Iowa has a preponderance of student rental housing, but is not an area of concentration of low-income families. Because of this there is no defined plan for allocating CDBG and HOME funds geographically. Since CDBG and HOME projects are often initiated by a number of different organizations, these federal funds are used throughout the community. Likewise, the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program serves citizens on a citywide basis and distributes the assistance accordingly. All service programs are based on individual need and are not allocated geographically. b. Among Priority Needs as Identified in HUD Table IV. 1 and Table IV.3 HUD Tables IV. 1 and IV.3 show that there are a number of needs with "HIGH-MEDIUM" priorities in each of the categories (housing, homeless, public facilities, and public services). Federal regulations prohibit more than 15 percent of CDBG funds being for public services. Estimating the public service expenditures annually is fairly simple given the federal restrictions (CDBG funds X .15 = $ for public services). This calculation gives us an estimate of $120,000 annually that may be used to fund public service activities, based upon current CDBG funding levels. There are no limits or requirements for allocating funds in each of the other categories (housing, public facilities and economic development). 98 2. Basis for Assigning the Priority In order to develop this plan and to determine the community' s needs citizen input was solicited. (A complete description of the development of the CITY STEPS Plan can be found in Section I.) Citizen input was the rationale for changes to the priority rankings of the identified needs. Most of the priorities for this plan were carried forward from the prior Consolidated Plan. Prior to the adoption of this Plan both the HCDC and City Council will have opportunities to make other priority changes. These priorities will then be used by the HCDC and staff to rank proposed projects and make funding recommendations to the City Council. These priority rankings are not absolute and are subject to change upon presentation of evidence that a need does exist and the level of that need is well documented. In general, "low" priority rankings indicate that existing services are adequately meeting current demand, or that no specific needs have been identified at this time. It is also important to remember that these are not the needs of the City as a whole, but those of its low-income residents only. Thus, Water Improvements and Parking have a "Low" priority ranking as far as the low-income population alone is concerned, but these improvements are a "High" priority for the City as a whole. 3. Obstacles to Meeting Under Served Needs Available funding is the most apparent obstacle. Most of the services that are needed by low-income persons are available in Iowa City; if more funding were available existing services could be expanded to meet the needs of the community. A second, less apparent, obstacle to meeting lower income residents' needs has to do with community attitudes. Many persons support services or programs designed to help the needy, but do not want "low-income housing" or multi-family housing in their neighborhood. (See also Section IV.F.) According to HUD, a Continuum of Care system is "designed to address the critical problem of homelessness through a coordinated community-based process of identifying needs and building a system to address those needs." This approach identifies that homelessness is not caused primarily by lack of shelter, but rather by an array of underlying unmet needs (i.e. physical, economic, and social). The charts listed below provides a gap analysis revealing estimated needs, current inventory, unmet needs, as well as, the priority levels of individuals and families with children within the Continuum of Care system in Iowa City. Continuum of Care: Housing Gaps Analysis Chart- (Beds/Units) Individuals Estimated Current Unmet Relative Needs Inventory Need/Gap Priority Emergency Shelter 81 47 34 High Transitional Housing 96 36 60 High Permanent Housing 0 0 0 High (supportive) Total 177 83 94 Source: 2004 Johnson County Continuum of Care Plan 99 Persons in Families with Children Estimated Current Unmet Relative Needs Inventory Need/Gap Priority Emergency Shelter 60 44 16 High Transitional Housing 355 224 131 High Permanent Housing 0 0 0 High (supportive) Total 415 268 147 Source: 2004 Continuum o £Care Plan Special Needs/Non-Homeless Sub-Populations Priority Need Elderly Medium Frail Elderly High Severe Mental Illness High Developmentally Disabled High Physically Disabled High Persons with Alcohol/Other Drug High Addiction Persons with HIV/AIDS High HUD Table IV. 1 Listing of Priority Needs (Rental Households) Priority Housing Needs Priority Need Level High, 2000 2000 (households) Medium Low, No such need Estimated Estimated 0-30% 31-50% 51-80% Units Dollars Needed to Address Renter Small Cost burden > 30% H M L 971 $23,304,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% H H M 489 $11,726,000 Physical Defects** L L L N/A -- Overcrowded* L L L N/A -- Large Cost burden > 30% H M L 145 $3,480,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% H H M 68 $1,632,000 Physical Defects** L L L N/A -- Overcrowded* H M L N/A -- Elderly Cost burden > 30% M M L 205 $4,920,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% M M M 152 $3,648,000 Physical Defects** L L L N/A -- Overcrowded* M M L N/A -- * Estimated units were not available in the 2000 U.S. Census and 2000 CHAS data *~ Physical defects include an estimate of units that are older than 1980 and rented by LMI households. 100 Listing of Priority Needs (Owner Households) Priority Housing Needs Priority Need Level High, 2000 2000 (households) Medium Low, No such need Estimated Estimated 0-30% 31-50% 51-80% Units Dollars Needed to Address Owner Small Cost burden > 30% M L L 534 $12,716,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% M L L 223 $5,352,000 Physical Defects** H H M N/A -- Overcrowded* L L L N/A -- Large Cost burden > 30% M L L 72 $1,728,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% M L L 24 $576,000 Physical Defects** H H M N/A -- Overcrowded* L L L N/A -- Elderly Cost burden > 30% M M L 279 $6,696,000 Related Cost Burden > 50% M L L 105 $2,520,000 Physical Defects** H H M N/A -- Overcrowded* L L L N/A -- * Estimated units were not available in the 2000 U.S. Census and 2000 CHAS data ** Physical defects include an estimate of units that are older than 1980 and rented by LMI households. PRIORITY HOMELESS Priority Need Level Estimated NEEDS High, Medium, Low, No such need Dollars Needed To Address Outreach Assessment Families Individuals W/Special Needs -- M M M Emergency Shelters Families Individuals W/Special Needs $1,620,000 H H M Transitional Shelters Families Individuals W/Special Needs -- H H H Permanent Supportive Families Individuals W/Special Housing Needs -- L N H Permanent Housing Families Individuals W/Special Needs -- H H N Information on this table is based upon statistics from the 2000 U.S. Census 101 Table IV.2 City of Iowa City FY2006-2010 Estimated Federal Assistance (CDBG) Assistance Type Percent Dollars Funded Housing 10% $400,000 Public Facilities 40% $1,600,000 Public Services * 15% $600,000 Economic Development 15% $600,000 Administration* 20% $800,000 Total 100% $4,000,000 · Maximum allowed per Federal Regulations Table 1V.3 City of lowa City FY2006-2010 Estimated Federal Assistance (HOME) Assistance Type Percent Allocated Dollars Funded Rental Housing 25% $875,000 Homeownership 40% $1,400,000 Administration 10% $350,000 Tenant Based Rental Assistance 20% $700,000 Housing Counseling 5 % $175,000 Total 100% $3,500,000 Note: All housing funds must be spent for housing activities Table IV.4 City of Iowa City FY2006-2010 Estimated Federal Assistance Combined (CDBG/HOME) Assistance Type Percent Allocated Dollars Funded Housing 48% $3,550,000 Public Facilities 21% $1,600,000 Public Services 8% $600,000 Economic Development 8% $600,000 Administration 15 % $1,150,000 Total 100% $7,500,000 Tables IV. 2-4 represents the amount of funding the City of Iowa City expects to receive from federal sources (CDBG and HOME) and program income in fiscal years 2006-2010 and the percent of funds allocated for the primary activity category. IV B. AFFORDABLE HOUSING Table IV. 1, designed by HUD, shows the general needs of a jurisdiction in a standardized format. The table, as presented, estimates the number of units affected by a particular need and how much money it would require to totally meet this need over the five year period of this plan. The funds needed to satisfy the needs are estimates based upon our best information and represent the total funds needed (public and private), however, these numbers are very high and are not what the City expects to receive in the next five years. Estimates on how much money the City does expect to receive and allocate for these needs is shown on Table IV.2 and, again, are estimates based upon our best information (from agencies, organizations and 102 experience). This is a more realistic idea of how federal funds received by Iowa City will be allocated over the next five years. 1. Statement of Specific Objectives Within this plan we have tried to describe and estimate the activities that will be undertaken and at least be partially funded with federal funds in Iowa City over the next five years. Again, since this is a five year overview and we do not know what type of funding requests the City will receive over time we cannot pinpoint the exact number of housing units that will be assisted. The following estimates are based upon the funding requests that have been received and/or funded over the past several years. a. Influence of Housing Market on Use of Funds As stated in the Housing Market Analysis section of this plan, Section III. A., the housing market in Iowa City is very tight. This translates to an expensive housing market in both rental and owner- occupied units. In 1997 the City contracted with Maxfield Research, Inc. to perform a housing market analysis. This analysis confirmed and quantified the housing needs for the Iowa City area. Much of the information in this study has been included in Section III of this document. As we plan for affordable housing and the allocation of resources over the next five years the needs outlined within the Maxfield Research study will be used as a guideline. (1) Rental Assistance Data from the 2000 Census as shown in HUD Table IV. 1 reveal that there are 2,030 low income elderly or small and large related households with a cost burden over 30 percent of their gross income. This number decreased by 5% when compared to 1990 figures. Currently the Iowa City Public Housing Authority has 91 units of public housing and 1,213 Housing Choice Vouchers. In addition, there is a continual waiting list of approximately 1,657 unassisted households. Because of the high market rents in Iowa City, rental assistance is the most often cited and important need identified by low-income persons. The City intends to continue programs and pursue expansion the amount of rental assistance available. 20 Units New Housing Choice Vouchers (FY05) 50 Households Tenant Based Rental Assistance (10 annually) 8800 Units Inspections and Re-inspections of Rental Units (1500 annually) (2) Production of New Units The production of new housing units in Iowa City is primarily being done by the private sector with approximately 160 single-family dwellings and 285 multi-family rental units coming on-line annually (from 1998-2003). One barrier to producing new, affordable housing units is the cost of developable land. Because of this there have not been many "assisted" housing units being built. CDBG and HOME funds are available for the production of new units. At least two non-profit housing developers use CDBG and HOME funds to construct affordable housing units. (Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship and Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity) In addition, two private housing developers (Burns & Burns LC and the Farnum Group) have received HOME funds to construct affordable rental elderly housing. 100 Units New Construction of Affordable Rental Housing (20 annually) 50 Units New Construction of Affordable Owner- Occupied Housing (10 annually) 20 Units Assistance to Homebuyers to Purchase New Housing (5 annually) (3) Rehabilitation of Old Units 103 Iowa City has an effective housing rehabilitation program that has been assisting households for over 20 years. Funds have been used primarily for the rehabilitation of owner-occupied units that are owned by low income and elderly persons. Due to the City's tight housing market, the rehabilitation and maintenance of the housing stock is one of the most cost-effective and efficient means of insuring a safe, decent housing stock. The City also had a rental rehabilitation program from 1985 to 1994, but this program has been discontinued as a result of lack of landlord interest and an effective rental inspection program. Rental rehabilitation is an eligible activity and individual requests will be considered in conjunction with our regular CDBG and HOME allocation cycle. 10 Units Rental Accessibility (2 annually) 150 Units General Rehabilitation of Owner-Occupied Housing 20 Units Acquisition and Rehabilitation of Units for Rental Housing (4) Acquisition of Existing Units Again, due to the housing market the acquisition of existing units is also very expensive. However, there have been several successful activities that have received federal funds to acquire existing housing units. Given the difficulty in acquiring land for affordable housing, this type of activity has been successfully used to provide the City an opportunity to scatter affordable housing projects within the community. 15 Units Transitional Housing 20 Units Affordable Rental Housing for Low Income Persons 100 Units Assistance to Homebuyers to Purchase Existing Housing 2. Proposed Accomplishments The Strategic Plan section of the Consolidated Plan (CITY STEPS) shows the types of projects or activities that we envision taking place, initiated by the City or other organizations. Since this is a five- year overview, the numbers involving units, households and funds are rough estimates (based upon the past uses of federal funds). a. Number of Persons to whom the Jurisdiction will Provide Affordable Housing Housing by Income Type for Rental and Ownership (1) Extremely Low Income Households (under 30% median income) (2) Low Income Households (between 31% and 50% median income) (3) Moderate Income Households (over 51% median income) The City of Iowa City expects to assist a number of housing projects with CDBG and HOME funds. An estimate of the number of units is listed above and on previous pages. Top priority will be given to households under 30% of median income; these are listed as a "HIGH" priority within the CITY STEPS Plan. Since priorities are given to lower income households we can conservatively estimate that over one-half of these households will be under 50% of median income. Many of the projects funded with CDBG or HOME funds will be used to assist households under 30% of median income. b. Time Period of Assistance Since this is a five year plan, and the projects that receive CDBG and HOME assistance are proposed annually, it is difficult to predict when (in what year) projects will be undertaken. Nearly all of the estimates are based upon the City receiving a consistent source of federal funds throughout the term of 104 this plan. Should less funding become available, the estimates for the projects or units to be completed would adjust accordingly. IV C. PUBLIC HOUSING Iowa City Housing Authority Mission and Strategies: The Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) works to improve the quality of life for clients, acting as a community leader on affordable housing by providing information and education, housing assistance, and public and private partnership opportunities. The ICHA intends to continue its programs, pursue expansion of the amount of rental assistance available, address the need for improved communication and education between tenants and landlords, facilitate and enhance the development of self sufficiency programs, assist families in purchasing their own homes, encourage residents to maintain involvement and participate in the Annual Plan developmental process to ensure coordination with broader community strategies. Strategy 1: Maximize the number of affordable units available to the ICHA within its current resources by: · Employ effective maintenance and management policies to minimize the number of public housing units off-line. · Minimize turnover time for vacated public housing units. · Minimize time to renovate public housing units. · Maintain HCV lease-up rates by establishing payment standards that will enable families to rent throughout the jurisdiction. · Maintain HCV lease-up rates by continuing to market the program to owners, particularly those outside of areas of minority and poverty concentration. · Participate in the Consolidated Plan development process to ensure coordination with broader community strategies. Strategy 2: Increase the number of affordable housing units by: · Apply for additional HCV units should they become available. · Pursue housing resources other than public housing or HCV tenant-based assistance. · Leverage affordable housing resources in the community through the creation of mixed - finance housing through Public/Private Partnerships. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship, Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County. The Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF) and the ICHA started construction (Spring 2004) of a 10 unit affordable housing complex within the "Peninsula Project", which is a neo-traditional, mixed- income neighborhood design. > Construct two (2) affordable housing units in the Longfellow Neighborhood in 2005. The total project plan is to build 10 units over a five-year timeframe. Our intent is to pre-sell these accessible Longfellow Neighborhood units to eligible elderly or disabled families. > The City of Iowa City supported the efforts of the Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County to leverage $200,000 in State Housing Trust Fund Moneys. To this end, the City committed $20,000 from the ICHA to the efforts to provide homeownership opportunities in Iowa City. Strategy 3: Target available assistance to families at or below 30 % of AMI · Exceed HUD federal targeting requirements for families at or below 30% of AMI in public housing. 105 · Exceed HUD federal targeting requirements for families at or below 30% of AMI in tenant-based HCV assistance. · Adopt rent policies to support and encourage work. Interim Reexamination Policy: In most cases, the ICHA will recalculate rent based on an increase in income from employment only at a participant's annual reexamination. The ICHA changed this policy to promote economic self-sufficiency by encouraging participants to maintain employment and to seek opportunities for better employment · Employ admissions preferences aimed at families' involuntary displaced, families with children 18 years of age and under or elderly or disabled families. Strategy 4: Target available assistance to families at or below 50% of AMI · Adopt rent policies to support and encourage work > Interim Reexamination Policy: In most cases, the ICHA will recalculate rent based on an increase in income from employment only at a participant's annual reexamination. The ICHA changed this policy to promote economic self-sufficiency by encouraging participants to maintain employment and to seek opportunities for better employment Strategy 5: Target available assistance to the elderly: · Apply for special-purpose vouchers targeted to the elderly, should they become available. · FY99 applied and received 100 mainstream vouchers for people with disabilities. This includes elderly. Continues to be funded. Strategy 6: Target available assistance to Families with Disabilities: · Apply for special-purpose vouchers targeted to families with disabilities, should they become available. · Affirmatively market to local non-profit agencies that assist families with disabilities. · FY99, Applied and received 100 mainstream vouchers for people with disabilities (including elderly). Continues to be funded. · FY04 Applied for 20 mainstream vouchers for people with disabilities. Currently under HUD review. · Educate local non-profit agencies that assist families with disabilities. Expand the briefing process to include these agencies and their employees as needed. Strategy 7: Conduct activities to affirmatively further fair housing · Educate tenants and owners on fair housing rights through the Administrative Plan, Briefing Sessions and information packets. · Also, the ICHA works extensively with the City of Iowa City's Human Rights Department to ensure fair housing rights. · Provide reasonable accommodations as needed. · Provide information and access to community/housing resources through the ICHA website: http://www.icgov, org/housing/authority/links/index, htm Strategy 8: Promote Self-Sufficiency: The ICHA operates 2 Self-Sufficiency Programs: 1. The Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program promotes self-sufficiency and asset development by providing supportive services to participants' to increase their employability, to increase 106 the number of employed participants and encourages an increase in savings through an escrow savings program. The original FSS program mandate was 83 slots (33 in Public Housing and 50 in HCV). In May 2002, the ICHA received approval from HUD to operate a voluntary FSS program along with the HUD mandated program. This action increased the program size to 160 combined slots. Due to 77 successful program graduates, our mandated number of slots is now 6 (93% graduated). For Fiscal Year 2004: · 160 households are currently participating in the Family Self-Sufficiency program. · TotalMandatedPublic Housing slotsfilled = 33 (100% of mandate). · Total Mandated Public Housing slots graduated = 26 (79% of mandate). · Current number of Public Housing Tenants enrolled = 31. · TotalMandatedHCVslotsfilled = 50 (100% of mandate). · TotalMandatedHCVslots graduated = 50 (100% of mandate). · Current number of HCV Tenants enrolled = 125. · 100% of our mandatory and voluntary slots arefilled. · 60% have escrow accounts established. · Average monthly escrow deposit = $200. · Average escrow balance = $2,000. · Of our total FSS graduates, 35 have moved to homeownership (28 independent of ICHA programs; 7 through ICHA programs). · 9 clients received bikes through the ROSS Bike-to- Work program. · 35 families received cars from the Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa's Wheels-to-Work program. 2. Resident Opportunity Self-Sufficiency (ROSS): Resident Opportunity Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) is a grant-funded program that provides participants with resources to improve their employment skills through job coaching and educational opportunities. The program also links clients to resources to meet such needs as child care, transportation, education and job training opportunities, employment, money management and other similar needs necessary to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. · The ROSS Program admits and graduates residents on an ongoing basis, with 163 referrals since June 2001. This number far surpasses the original grant goal of serving 130 residents over three years. · The original competitive grant awarded to the ICHA was $150,000 over 3-years (March 2001 - March 2004). This grant, in partnership with Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa, purchased the services of an Employment Specialist. · In March 2004, the ICHA again secured a competitive grant for $250,000 over the next 3-years (2004 - 2007). This grant will maintain the efforts of the Employment Specialist and will provide additional supportive service to aid clients in seeking and maintaining employment. For example, childcare start-up fees, car repairs, short-term education/training, licensure, etc. Through public/private partnerships, the grant will support seminars and workshops, such as FDIC Money Smart, homeownership preparation classes, etc. 107 Strategy 10: Promote Homeownership Options: HCV Homeownership Program: The HCV Homeownership program permits eligible participants in the HCV Program, including participants with portable vouchers, the option of purchasing a home with their HCV assistance rather than renting. The homeownership option is limited to three percent (3%) of the total HCV program budgeted by the ICHA in any fiscal year, excluding disabled and elderly families. Eligible participants for the HCV Homeownership Program must have completed at minimum a one-year lease term with HCV rental assistance. They must not owe the ICHA or any other ICHA an outstanding debt and must meet the eligibility criteria set forth herein. HCV homeownership assistance payments may be used to purchase the following type of housing within Johnson County: new or existing single-family units, condominiums, cooperatives, lofts, and, or manufactured units. ICHA will also permit portability of HCV homeownership payments to another jurisdiction, provided the receiving jurisdiction operates a HCV Homeownership Program for which the participant qualifies, is accepting new families, or authorizes the ICHA to administer the homeownership assistance in their jurisdiction. · Ten (10) Housing Choice Vouchers were used to purchase homes since January 2003. As of September 30, 2004, three (3) closings are pending. Tenant-to-Ownership Program (TOP): The Tenant To Ownership Program is funded by Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Tenant to Ownership Program offers an opportunity for low to very low-income families to purchase a single-family house owned by the ICHA. · Fifteen (15) homes sold and three (3) resold since May 1998. As of September 30, 2004, Five (5) sales are pending. Affordable Dream Home Ownership Program (ADHOP): The Affordable Dream Home Ownership Program operated, managed and funded solely by the ICHA. It offers an opportunity for income eligible families to purchase newly constructed or newer homes. · Seven (7) homes (one a "Universal Design" home) built and sold since May 1999. Homeownership Totals: · The combined efforts of the ICHA Self-Sufficiency and Homeownership programs, May 1998 - Present, resulted in a total of 68 participant families living in their own home. Strategy 11: Other Housing Needs & Strategies: 108 The ICHA recognizes the need for improved communication and education between tenants and landlords/owners. The ICHA continues marketing efforts targeting landlords, educating them on the general nature and mechanics of the program, and providing free advertising by maintaining a current rental listing of vacant units. The ICHA will utilize existing or create new partnerships to develop and deliver workshops/seminars targeting both landlords and tenants (e.g., How You Can Enforce Your Lease, How to be a Good Tenant, etc). Our website features a section dedicated to landlord specific information: http://www.icgov, org/housing/authority/landlord/index, htm IV D. HOMELESSNESS 1. Strategies for Addressing the Needs of Person who are Homeless a. Homeless Prevention Strategy: Assist low-income households in maintaining and retaining their existing housing. Objectives: a. Establish/Improve emergency rent, mortgage and utility assistance. b. Expand in-home support systems such as: living skills training; check in/on service; "buddy system" supports/mentor program. c. Increase accessibility to physical/mental health care. d. Facilitate the development of countywide housing rehab programs. In 1998, HUD allowed housing authorities to discontinue the use of federal preferences and to adopt local preferences in order to better serve the specific needs of the community. The ICHA addressed the needs of Iowa City's homeless by enacting a local preference that allowed homeless families to be served before any others applying for rental assistance. The ICHA designated DVIP, Shelter House, HACAP and other agencies to certify the homeless status of the family. Once this is done, the ICHA gives those applicants priority and their wait for rental assistance is substantially reduced. While programs do exist to provide food and other care to those in crisis, relatively few programs exist that provide financial assistance to maintain a families and individuals in their current homes. Yet, the short-term cost of such assistance is much lower than the long-term expense to taxpayers of supporting people in emergency facilities. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship, in conjunction with U.S. Bank, has a Security Deposit Loan Program that provides deposit assistance to income qualifying residents. In addition, properties associated with Shelter House, Successful Living, Inc and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP) help lower income households with rent and utility deposits. In addition, there are private groups that provide small amounts of emergency assistance. Access to these programs is extremely limited and often for one-time assistance only. Many low-income persons find it difficult to make monthly rent and mortgage payments and pay the necessary expenses of maintaining or rehabilitating their homes. Assistance in maintaining these homes guarantees their long-term inclusion in the stock of affordable housing. Often persons faced with a crisis or legal trouble may just need someone to talk with to prevent a problem from becoming unmanageable. Representatives of Shelter House have suggested that a "buddy system" or mentor program could prevent some individual's problems from escalating to a level that would require emergency services and shelter. In cooperation with many local agencies, a HUD Supportive Housing grant, amounting to $448,318 was obtained from HUD for fiscal year 2005. The Supported Training and Access to Resources (STAR) 109 grant is utilized to assist persons who are homeless and chronically unemployed achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency through employment. b. Reaching out to Persons who are Homeless and Assessing Individual Needs Strategy: Advocate human services coordination. Objectives: a. Pursue a single application for service system entry. b. Pursue the formation of a local computerized system that connect clients with services, serves as a database, and provides inter-agency referrals. c. Support continued funding of Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG) Human Services Coordinator. d. Support Local Homeless Coordinating Board (LHCB) Strategy: Increase understanding of issues surrounding Johnson County homelessness. Objectives: a. Conduct a study or rural homelessness coordinated with JCCOG to determine the level of unmet need, formulate outreach efforts and Support requests for additional funding. b. Conduct a survey to determine community attitudes surrounding affordable housing and homeless organizations and participants. c. Addressing Shelter Needs of Persons who are Homeless 1. Emergency Shelter Needs Strategy: Emergency Shelter Rehab/Expansion. Objectives: a. Improve and maintain existing shelter facilities. b. Support expansion or addition of facilities to meet increased demand. c. Expand staff within existing system to provide improved service. Strategy: Support plans for improving day shelter opportunities. Objectives: a. Expand available services such as: social/case worker availability; facilities; childcare opportunities; improved public and private transportation access; showers. b. Supported Training and Access to Resources (STAR) program continuation. 2. Transitional Housing Needs Strategy: Improve transitional housing programs for families. Objectives: Continue to develop scattered site, transitional housing programs requiring participation in supportive services. Strategy: Provide transitional Housing for single individuals. Objectives: a. Continue to develop Single Room Occupancy (SRO) type housing for persons living alone with access to supportive services. b. Continue support of transitional housing for unaccompanied youth. c. Continue to fund United Action for Youth (UAY) and Four Oaks Youth Homes. 110 Strategy: Provide special needs transitional housing. Objectives: a. Continue to support the development of transitional housing for persons with mental illness. b. Provide services to support special needs populations in non-facility based care environments (i.e. Compeer, Buddy System, Coaches). d. Helping Homeless Persons Make the Transition to Independent Living Please see Transitional Housing Needs above and the Non-Housing Community Development Plan (Section IV.E.). IV E. OTHER SPECIAL NEEDS 1. Priority Housing and Supportive Service Needs of Persons who are Not Homeless but Require Supportive Housing Provide housing and supportive services to persons who are elderly and frail elderly, persons with disabilities, persons with alcohol or other drug addiction, persons with HIV/AIDS and their families, and public housing residents. Housing and supportive services may include congregate housing, chore services, housing rehabilitation programs, in-home support services, home health services, case management, education, dependent care, job training and employment services, alcohol/drug abuse counseling, mental health services, and other types of housing and services designed to develop independence and self sufficiency. (Refer to Section II.D. for more detailed information) The City of Iowa City, through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds provides rehabilitation and accessibility improvements to local agencies that provide housing with supportive services, e.g. Systems Unlimited. The City also provides grant writing technical assistance to non-profit agencies. There are numerous other programs and resources available to assist agencies with housing and supportive service needs, they include: * Shelter Plus Care Program * Supportive Housing Program (SHP) * Section 811 program (Persons with Disabilities) * Section 202 program (Elderly) * Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) * Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG) * HOME Investment Partnership Funds * Other, as appropriate, including local initiatives from private non-profit entities Objectives: a. Continue to review the need to provide housing and supportive services who are not homeless but require supportive housing and identify potential providers and sites. b. Continue to provide rehabilitation and accessibility improvements to local agencies that provide housing with supportive services. 111 c. Continue to provide grant writing technical support to local non-profit agencies. IV F. NON-HOUSING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PLAN TABLE IV. 5 Non-Housing Community Development Priorities PRIORITY COMMUNITY PRIORITY NEED LEVEL ESTIMATED 2004 DEVELOPMENT NEEDS High, Medium, DOLLARS NEEDED Low, No Such Need TO ADDRESS PUBLIC FACILITY NEEDS Senior Centers L $1,200,000 Youth Centers H $1,785,000 Neighborhood Facilities H $1,785,000 Child Care Centers H $2,000,000 Trails, Art, Parks, Recreational Facilities L $6,525,000 Health Facilities L $100,000 Parking Facilities N $1,933,660 Other Public Facilities L $10,400,000 INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS Solid Waste Disposal Improvements L $2,270,000 Flood Drain Improvements L $1,750,000 Water Improvements L $3,330,000 Street Improvements L $2,500,000 Sidewalk Improvements L $2,150,000 Sewer Improvements L $3,100,000 Asbestos Removal L unknown Other Infrastructure Improvements Needs L $441,340 PUBLIC SERVICE NEEDS Senior Services H $1,778,000 Services for Persons with Disabilities M $8,031,660 Youth Services H $28,792,154 Transportation Services H Unknown Substance Abuse Services H $19,923,100 Employment Training H $20,054,000 Crime Awareness L $3,360,054 Fair Housing Activities H $100,000 Tenant/Landlord Counseling L $1,975,000 Child Care Services H $20,200,000 Health Services H $40,400,025 Other Public Service Needs H $37,065,410 112 PRIORITY COMMUNITY PRIORITY NEED LEVEL ESTIMATED 2004 DEVELOPMENT NEEDS High, Medium, Low, DOLLARS NEEDED No Such Need TO ADDRESS ACCESSIBILITY NEEDS Accessibility Needs H $22,831,300 HISTORIC PRESERVATION NEEDS Residential Historic Preservation Needs L $6,500,000 Non-Residential Historic Preservation Needs L $5,000,000 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEEDS Commercial-Industrial Rehabilitation L $1,250,000 Commercial-Industrial Infrastructure L $1,000,000 Other Commercial Industrial Improvements L $1,250,000 Micro-Businesses H $500,000 Other-Businesses M $225,000 Technical Assistance M $50,000 Other Economic Development Needs L Unknown OTHER COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Energy Efficiency Improvements M $48,060,000 Lead-Based Paint Hazards H $17,280,000 2160 units x 8,000/per Code Enforcement L $4,101,975 PLANNING Planning M $2,069,515 113 1. Public Facility Needs Estimated Federal funds to be expended for Public Facility Needs over the next five years: $1,600,000 Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Dependent Care Facilities: Childcare issues have repeatedly arisen at CITY STEPS meetings and through discussions with staff members of the 4Cs (Community Coordinated Child Care) program in Iowa City. In the past year, the 4Cs Resource and Referral Program conducted 1,050 parent intakes, listed 348 individual child care providers, and provided consumer education as requested. According to 4Cs statistics, documented childcare needs in the Johnson County area have increased dramatically. The unmet needs are strongly focused on infant care; before/after school care, and care for children whose parents work second shift, third shift and weekends. Strategy: Provision of Dependent Care Facilities Long-Term Objective: Support development of respite care, childcare, and family resource centers. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Youth Centers: Four Oaks Youth Homes, Inc and United Action for Youth (UAY) have facilities for their own use. Clients heavily use these facilities. As such, the facilities are continually in need of renovations and improvements. The youth services providers feel that there may possibly be a need for a youth recreational center, organized and run by youths, in the future. Youth Homes' PAL (Pursuing Adventures in Learning) program is an after school and day treatment program for preadolescents and middle school children (ages 6 -15) who have behavior disorders. PAL currently uses leased space from St. Patrick's Church. The PAL program's objectives state that it would like to provide summer day treatment services to at least 25 children with behavior disorders and school-year day treatment services to at least 15 children with behavior disorders. To meet these goals it needs one full-time day treatment coordinator, 5.4 FTE Youth Counselors and Youth Counselor Associates, office space, dayroom space, and two vans, in addition to a permanent site. The Arc of Johnson County is working to improve summer/before/after school care options for adolescents over the age of 12 with developmental disabilities. Historically this need had been met by Handicare, but that agency has determined they can no longer provide quality services for children over age 12. Strategy: Provision of Youth Center Short-Term Objective: Continue support of before/after school facilities for all youth including those with developmental disabilities. Long-Term Objective: Investigate need for additional space for youth programs. 114 Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Neighborhood Facilities: Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County operates neighborhood centers in the Broadway and Pheasant Ridge neighborhoods. These centers offer childcare, a drop-in area, general meeting areas, counseling areas, staff offices, and small kitchens. Pheasant Ridge consists of 248 apartments, with 231 subsidized through the federal Section 8 program for very low-income families. It is a multi-cultural neighborhood where a majority of the families are minorities and/or are foreign-born. About 200 youth reside in the complex, many of which are from single- parent families. CDBG funds were used to renovate the Broadway Center and to construct the Pheasant Ridge Center. These improvements increased the capacity at the centers by expanding the childcare areas. However, public meetings conducted at both Broadway and Pheasant Ridge in the Fall of 2003 indicated a dire need for childcare and transportation options in both the Broadway and Pheasant Ridge neighborhoods. Many residents reported that a lack of affordable childcare prohibited them from pursuing an education or obtaining employment. Strategy: Provision of Neighborhood Facilities Short-Term Objective: Expand childcare slots or stipends for neighborhood facilities. Lo,g-Term Objective: Explore the need; plan and construct neighborhood facilities. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Additional Parks and Recreational Facilities: Strategy: Provision of Additional Parks and Recreational Facilities Lo,g-Term Objective: Develop additional open space in low-income neighborhoods as needed. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Health Facilities: While the number of patients and services offered at both the Free Medical Clinic and Emma Goldman Clinic are growing, the existing facilities are adequate at this time. CDBG funds were used in 1997 and 2004 to renovate these spaces; however, it is anticipated that over the next five years the demand will exceed the current space. In addition, a dental clinic operates out of the Free Medical Clinic space. The Free Medical Clinic, Emma Goldman Clinic and Planned Parenthood of Greater Iowa have facility maintenance needs. (See Public Service Needs: Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Health Services: medical, dental, nutrition, preventive care) Strategy: Provision for Health Facilities: Long-Term Objective: Support expansion needs of existing medical/dental facilities. 2. Public Service Needs Estimated federal funds to be expended for Public Service Needs over the next five years: $600,000 Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Health Services: medical, dental, nutrition, preventive care: 115 According to the Free Medical Clinic's FY03 Annual Report they served 2,541 patients for a total of 5,483 visits. Visits for patients with chronic illnesses, including, hypertension and diabetes continues to rise with 799 visits, an increase of 34% since FY2001. In addition, HIV counseling and testing was provided for 648 patients. The number one need is to assist patients in acquiring and purchasing prescription medication. According to the Free Medical Clinic, 6,187 prescription medications were dispensed over FY03, an increase of 1811 medications since 2001. According to a May 2004 study conducted by the Free Medical Clinic 95 of 100 clients surveyed indicated they did not have health insurance. The remaining three out of five with insurance explained that their insurance covers catastrophic care only; while the remaining two with insurance used Family Medical Clinic for reasons of confidentiality. The Emma Goldman Clinic, another non-profit health care provider, sees between 5,000 - 6,000 clients per year. From October 1, 2003 to September 30, 2004, Emma Goldman Clinic subsidized 4,708 (over 90%) of their clients at the level of $229,168. With the closing of the University of Iowa's Family Planning Clinic (seeing approximately 2,300 patients), which utilized Federal dollars to provide reproductive health care services, both the Emma Goldman Clinic and Planned Parenthood of Greater Iowa anticipate that there will be an increased demand as those patients find other facilities that can provide reproductive health care. Due to the increased demands on the community's non-profit health care providers their ability to provide subsidies and services will be difficult. A Needs Assessment Survey conducted on behalf of the Iowa Center for AIDS Resources and Education (ICARE), indicated Persons Living With HIV/AIDS said that they were unable to pay included food, clothing, transportation, medicine, and doctors. The survey also stated the educational service most frequently used was for medical treatments, followed by living with HIV, entitlement programs, HIV/AIDS prevention, HIV/AIDS disease progression, and employment. For supportive services used during the previous year 27 (42.2%) of the 64 clients who responded ranked mental health counseling 1 st. Psychiatric services ranked 2nd while Living with HIV ranking third. Other ranked supportive services included, spiritual counseling, support groups, stress reduction, substance counseling/treatment, mentor/peer support program, grief counseling, and counseling for discordant couples. Various groups and agencies currently address nutrition needs. The Crisis Center Food Bank requests for assistance increased by 50% from 5,126 individuals in 2000 to 10,340 individuals in 2004. The Free Lunch program has had a steady but manageable increase in lunches served over the past few years. According to a Free Lunch Program survey conducted in August 2004, 35 of 39 respondents indicated they depend on the Free Lunch Program for their largest nutritional meal of the day. Of the 35, 63% use the program at least once a week. Fifty four percent of 37 respondents indicated they attend the Free Lunch Program primarily for a nutritional meal with the remaining 46% saying they attended the program for a meal and to socialize. When asked if they utilize other meal/food supplemental opportunities in addition to the Free Lunch Program, 35 respondents indicated they use the Salvation Army, Shelter House, the Crisis Center Food Bank, and other opportunities. The Salvation Army serves meals and has also reported steady increases. A relatively new service, provided by Table to Table, receives food from bakeries, restaurants and other food service companies and distributes it to organizations serving low-income persons. 116 Strategy: Provision of Health Services: Medical, Dental, Nutrition, Preventive Care/Reproduction Services Short-Term Objectives: a. Continue support of health, dental, and HIV/AIDS services b. Support food and nutrition services for low-income residents. c. Support assistance for prescription medication payments. Long-Term Objectives: Encourage participation of additional health care service providers. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Dependent Care Services: Childcare issues have repeatedly arisen at CITY STEPS meetings and through discussions with staff members of local human service providers. 4Cs primary purpose is to promote the well being of children and their families by assisting parents, childcare providers, employers, and others with their childcare related needs. This encompasses addressing challenges to the community's childcare system, documenting needs and trends in the childcare delivery system, and serving as a resource for planning and developing programs. In the past year, the 4Cs Resource and Referral Program conducted 1,050 parent intakes, listed 349 individual childcare providers and provided consumer education as requested. According to 4Cs' statistics, documented childcare needs in the Johnson County area have increased dramatically. The unmet needs are strongly focused on infant care; before/after school care; care for children whose parents work second shifts and weekends; and childcare for homeless families. Elder Services, Inc reports that respite care for the elderly is an unmet need in Iowa City. According to Elder Services, respite care is available at Mercy Home Healthcare, Homelife, and Hawkeye Medical Services at an average cost of $10 an hour, which is beyond the means of 75% of those who need it. Elder Services receives an average of two inquiries a day about respite care for the elderly, but they can only provide a total of 12 to 14 hours a day of in-home respite care. In FY04 Elder Services provided 1,800 hours of in-home respite care. The Arc of Johnson County provides services, information and referral, as well as advocacy for persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities and their families throughout the life span. Through In Home Services programs such as Respite Care, Supported Community Living, and Consumer Directed Attendant Care the daily needs of children and adults with disabilities as well as their families are met. Families and individuals are able to request persons they would like to provide their services. If that person meets the standards of the agency to become a provider of In Home Services the needed arrangements are made. This frequently adds to the individuals as well as the family's comfort level in receiving services from someone they know and trust. The Supported Employment Program provides services for adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities who are interested in job seeking, as well as obtaining and maintaining competitive jobs in businesses in the community. The Arc of Johnson County provided services to 177 Johnson County individuals and families in FY03 and over 200 Johnson County individuals and families in FY04. By the end of FY04, the agency had doubled the number of persons served through Medicaid funded programs, as compared to FY00. During this time period the agency saw a significant increase in the medical fragility of persons referred for and receiving services, as well as a significant increase in the intensity of the services needed. Over this same time period the agency saw significant increase in usage of Respite Care Services. All funds the agency receives from the United Way of 117 Johnson County since beginning FY03 has been dedicated in its' entirety for Respite Services for families who are ineligible for any other funding source, or who are on waiting lists from other funding sources. Through collaboration with Johnson County Empowerment, Iowa Child Abuse Prevention, local businesses, and the University of Iowa, The Arc of Johnson County is implementing a free support group for parents of children aged birth to 5 years old during 2004 and 2005. This group facilitates families meeting one another, provides childcare or respite for the family during the group meetings, and brings professional speakers to the meetings to address current issues of importance to the parents. The unmet needs of the community for persons with mental retardation and developmental disabilities has been the primary area of focus for The Arc of Johnson County since its' inception in 1957. During the founding of the agency the Board of Directors made certain that options in education, recreation, employment and assistance in independent living arrangements were established for persons with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. The current areas of unmet needs that the agency is working to address each have a common theme that is, how to sustain families in community. Some of the current unmet needs are only in the beginning stages of being addressed. The Arc of Johnson County will continue to seek answers and solutions to these needs. Strategy: Provision of Dependent Care Services Short-Term Objectives: a. Support and expand childcare resources and referral services, and opportunities including emergency and round the clock care. b. Explore, support, and expand services that provide respite care for the elderly and for persons and families with special needs. Needs Assessment and Current Programs to Improve Access to Transportation: The one consistent theme at every CITY STEPS public meeting and in discussions between staff and residents was transportation. Transportation to jobs, day care, medical services, school, and shelter was noted as one of the most urgent needs. The current bus system focuses on the downtown area, with nearly every route beginning or ending downtown. In recent years adjustments have been made to alter bus routes and expand services. Despite these efforts, additional transportation alternatives need to be sought. The bus system also has limited evening hours, extremely limited Saturday service and no Sunday service. The ongoing development of businesses and residential areas on the fringes of Iowa City and neighboring towns only emphasizes the need to review the existing system. To encourage utilization of mass transit the city started operating two bus routes in the downtown and surrounding neighborhoods that are flee. The SEATS program, which provides transportation services to citizens who are elderly and/or disabled. This service is vital to the day-to-day lives of persons who are elderly and disabled in Johnson County and Iowa City. Currently, persons with disabilities (regardless of age) can arrange for door-to-door transportation service. Persons who are elderly, without a disability, may use SEATS within their "fixed routes". During the public comment period and hearings, the need for an expansion of SEATS services was requested to enable grocery routes, especially targeting the senior housing complexes. 118 Additionally, the Free Bus Ticket Program continues to be an important link between low- income residents and jobs, services, and housing. This program currently distributes approximately 1,100 tickets per month (about 13,000 annually). Strategy: Improve Access to Transportation Short-Term Objectives: a. Provide ongoing support to special needs population for regional transportation systems. b. Continue provision of free bus tickets. c. Encourage Johnson County SEATS to consider the expansion of serivce for seniors that could include a grocery route. Long-Term Objectives: a. Review bus transit system (e.g. possible expansion of service hours, improved route structure to reach new and existing employment and service centers, etc.). b. Study regional commuting options including expansion of van and car pools, mass transit, Bike Library, and other alternative transportation modes. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Legal Aid: Legal aid for low-income persons was discussed at CITY STEPS meetings as an important need for issues such as tenant/landlord disputes, and protection of basic rights, particularly for elderly persons. At this time the current needs are being met. Strategy: Public Awareness Referral of Legal Aid Short-Term Objective: Maintain support for services that provide for the legal needs of low-income persons. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Training in Living Skills: Basic coping and day-to-day living skills were mentioned as an important need at the CITY STEPS public meetings and discussion. Support for creating and expanding living skills training programs was cited by several agencies. At present there are several organizations that address a variety of living skill needs. Successful Living, Inc., HACAP, Department of Human Services, Johnson County Extension Service, Shelter House/STAR Program and LIFE Skills, Inc. These organizations provide living skills, education and assistance to children, adults, families, and persons with special needs. Staff from the Johnson County Extension service said that they work with households at risk of losing their housing due to lack of home maintenance, home safety, budgeting skills and credit counseling. Both the HACAP and Successful Living, Inc. supportive service programs are targeting persons in transitional housing. Assistance is provided to help these households gain a sense of responsibility and accountability to themselves, their neighbors and their landlords. If additional staff funding were available, it is anticipated that these programs or others could be significantly expanded to assist more households and provide more services. The general trend in providing care and services to persons with special needs is towards non- facility-based, outpatient, independent living services. This trend reflects a move toward 119 incorporating the changes mandated by managed health care systems. Virtually every aspect of service to special needs populations is affected, including services for persons with mental illness, mental retardation, physical disability, and drug and alcohol addiction. Programs providing these services need to be enhanced to meet current and anticipated future demands. Strategy: Provision of Training in Living Skills Short/Long-Term Objective: Create and/or expand services that offer day-to-day living and coping skills, including, but not limited to: locating and acquiring permanent housing, budgeting, general housekeeping, home maintenance home safety, communication skills, and independent living skills. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Crime Awareness and Prevention Programs: The Iowa City Police Department currently does not have any formal programs in crime prevention and public relations due to budget cuts. However, officers visit select schools regularly as their calls for service allows. The Iowa City Police Department are able to conduct a Mentoring Program at several schools (Twain, Wood and South East Junior High) through the Wetherby PIN grant. Other programs provided through MECCA, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Iowa City Community Schools and Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, also deal with crime awareness and prevention. Strategy: Provision of Crime Awareness and Prevention Programs Short/Long-Term Objective: Support the Police Department in its efforts to promote crime awareness and prevention through programs, drug abuse prevention, police- sponsored recreation, and other community-based programs. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Youth Services: Four Oaks, Youth Homes and United Action for Youth have both seen consistent increases in their service needs and anticipate further increases over the next five years. United Action for Youth (UAY) assists youth and families by offering counseling and intervention programs, and providing prevention and youth development programs that make use of young people's talent and skills. UAY assisted 2,317Johnson County residents between July 2003 and June 2004. Currently, there is a waiting list for persons wanting family counseling and admittance into the teen parent program. According to the director, waiting lists occur periodically and do not exceed more than a two week waiting period. Youth Homes operates the Youth Emergency Shelter, Pursuing Adventures in Learning (PAL), Young Women's Residential Treatment Center, Family Centered Services, and Supervised Apartment Living. Youth Homes served over 500 Johnson County residents between July 2002 and June 2003. Before and after school programs are currently provided at the elementary level. There appears to be a need for after school programs at the Junior High School level. Strategy: Provision of Youth Services 120 Short-Term Objective: Continue to support existing youth programs. Long-Term Objective: Respond to needs to expand programs such as after-school care and assistance. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Tenant/Landlord Education. The need for improved communication and education between tenants and landlords was cited at several CITY STEPS meetings. Uncertainty about regulations, fear of eviction and feelings of disenfranchisement serve to decrease the quality of life for low-income tenants. Confusion regarding regulations and program requirements discourage landlords from willingly participating in rental assistance programs. To address these issues the Iowa City Housing Authority (ICHA) has embarked on a public relations and education campaign. To convey information about rent assistance programs, the ICHA distributes newsletters, attends landlord association meetings, and works one-on-one with tenants, property managers and landlords. "A Guide for Student Renters in Iowa City" was created to provide students living off campus with useful information. This information includes, tips on the renting and leasing process, services offered by the City, and important phone numbers and contact information. The guide also informs students about their rights and responsibilities as tenants living off campus. This guide was produced through collaborative efforts by the Iowa City Office of Neighborhood Services and the Neighborhood Council, the Stepping Up Project, the University of Iowa Tenant Landlord Association, the University of Iowa Student Government, the Campus Information Center, the University of Iowa Parents Association, and the Office of University Relations. Strategy: Provision of Tenant/Landlord Education Short-Term Objective: Continue outreach and provide a forum for communication and education between tenants and landlords. Long-Term Objective: Establish tenant\landlord training programs. The ICHA has developed, and will implement in the year 2005, a Certified Tenant Training Program. All rental assistance recipients will be required to attend the training. In the future, the certification will be available to any renter in the area. The ICHA will utilize existing or create new partnerships to develop and deliver workshops/seminars targeting both landlords and tenants. The components of the training include: · Understanding the Rental Process. · Qualities of a Good Tenant. · The Importance of FinancialResponsibility. · Maintaining Positive Tenant/Landlord Relations. · Legal Responsibilities of Landlord and Tenants. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Continuing Fair Housing Activities: The Human Rights Coordinator and the Human Rights Commission have an ongoing program which provides both counseling and complaint investigation, and the outreach and education of landlords and tenants. A constant stream of complaints is evidence of the need for these activities. Complaints include intimidation by landlords, discrimination against those living in 121 public or assisted housing, and eviction without cause. In October 1999 the City of Iowa City adopted an "Substantially Equivalent" ordinance that allows the City to investigate discrimination complaints. Strategy: Continue Fair Housing Activities Short-Term Objectives: a. Pursue legal action against landlords intimidating tenants. b. Conduct more Housing Discrimination Surveys. Long-Term Objective: Stop "discrimination by address" by encouraging scattered site subsidized housing and educating the community regarding subsidized housing. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Senior Services: Elder Services, Inc provides a shared housing program that matches elderly homeowners with a room to rent and tenants (most frequently graduate students) needing rooms. Elderly participants cite the security of having someone in the house at night, the convenience of an in-home person they can count on for errands and housekeeping help, and the extra income from the rent, as benefits of the program. Elder Services, Inc staff feels this program is comfortably meeting the market demand for such a service. (See also Transportation Needs) Strategy: Provision of Senior Services Short-Term Objectives: a. Continue support of in-home programs for the elderly. b. Explore, support and expand day care and respite care (see also Dependent Care) services. c. Continue support of services for the elderly, including paratransit, legal assistance, and shared housing programs. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Continuation of Human Services Coordination: While existing methods of assessment and referral appear to be doing an adequate job of directing individuals to sources of service, there is increasing concern within the homeless and service provider communities that current methods, while cooperative, are not coordinated as well as they could be. The result is that persons in crisis are frequently sent back and forth from one agency to another, often across town, to secure services or financial assistance. One solution, suggested more than once in CITY STEPS public meetings, was to develop a single, centrally located facility for coordinating referrals. Such a facility may provide satellite office space for agencies to conduct initial assessment and intake interviews, telephones for clients to use for contacting underrepresented agencies, a call-in hotline for people in need, and a well-stocked pamphlet display for service information. Another opportunity for coordination may exist in accessing existing computer networks for linking agencies and sharing information. At the administrative level, the Human Services Coordinator provides coordination of human services for the Johnson County Council of Governments. This office provides budgetary, statistical, and programmatic analyses to Iowa City's City Council, as well as the Johnson County Board of Supervisors in order to aid in making sound decisions regarding funding and 122 policy matters for human services. As state and federal aid to human service agencies decreases, the need for more local planning and coordination becomes imperative. Strategy: Continuation of Human Services Coordination Short-Term Objective: Support continued funding of JCCOG Human Service Coordinator. Long-Term Objectives: Pursue single application service system entry. 3. Economic Development Needs Estimated Federal funds to be expended for Economic Development Needs over the next five years: $600,000 Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Employment Training and Education: Currently, the emphasis in HUD programs is to help families move toward self-sufficiency. Suitable education and job training is part of this process. Suggestions from recent CITY STEPS public meetings indicated a need for vocational training. However, further research is needed to determine what skills local employers are looking for and what on-the-job training and apprenticeship programs are available and needed. The Family Investment Program (FIP formerly Aid to Families with Dependent Children) works with Promise Jobs (under JTPA) to provide job training. The Evert Conner Center offers comprehensive training in job seeking and personal assistance to persons with disabilities. They have experienced a large increase in clients. Kirkwood Community College provides Graduate Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) preparation, basic skills training, English as a Second Language (ESL), and Adult Literacy programs. Participants in Promise Jobs are required to participate in a high school degree program. In June 2004, the Community and Economic Development Office mailed over 500 surveys to local businesses in Iowa City to seek input on the continuation, expansion, or reduction of funding for economic development activities. According to the results, 118 of the 122 businesses that responded stated the greatest need in Iowa City was Economic Development. While, the greatest concern was the business environment, the least concerns were safety and security, costly development, and an abundance of subsidized housing. The survey results identified the greatest facility need were childcare facilities with the least need being parking facilities. The greatest public facility need was employment training and the least being substance abuse services. The greatest economic need was small business opportunities with the least being job training and employment accessibility. When asked to respond to employment conditions in Iowa City 48% of those who responded said opportunities for earning a living wage and local job opportunities for minorities were good. Fifty-five percent said local job opportunities were also good, while another 39% said local job opportunities for students graduating from area educational institutions were fair. Overall, the businesses surveyed stated the job conditions in Iowa City were good. 123 When asked what three most important issues their organization would face in the next 5 years of those who responded the inability to obtain quality staff ranked 1st. Financial growth (revenue, sales, etc) ranked 2nd and increase in taxes (property taxes, etc) ranked 3rd. Other responses included, but were not limited to affordability of health care and other benefits, employment opportunities, personnel training and education, affordable housing, and competition. When asked if the demand for their products or services exceeded the capacity and production of the current work force 80% of those responded said no. The 16% who said yes stated that it was due to additional employees being hired, which made business better. On the other hand, there has been lacking staff and budget, but more people are asking for services. Overall, of the businesses surveyed 55% said they plan to hire additional workers in the next 5 years. Forty-eight employers indicated that they would hire at least one employee during this time. Eight employers said they would hire between 20-50 employees, 3 said they would hire 51- 100 employees, while one employer indicated hiring over 100 employees. Seven employers were unsure how many employees they would hire in the next 5 years. For those employers that are planning to hire they said employees would need to acquire the following skills: · Customer service skills · Computer information and technology skills · Professionalism · Administrative skills · Manual Labor skills · Healthcare skills (depending on area of study) · Communication skills · Sales skills · Business skills (Finance, Marketing, Accounting, etc) · Education (High School, B.A, M.A.) · Organizational skills · Graphic Design skills · Planning skills · Engineering skills · Human Services skills · Advanced Cooking skills Some of the programs that were mentioned by the local businesses to increase employment opportunities were Kirkwood Community College Training and Outreach Programs, Iowa Workforce Development, Institute for Social and Economic Development (ISED), Goodwill Industries, and Iowa City Area Development Group (ICAD). Strategy: Provide Employment Training and Education Short-Term Objectives: a. Continue and expand apprenticeship and employment training programs. b. Support education opportunities including basic skill development (e.g. GED programs, adult literacy programs, vocational programs). Long-Term Objectives: a. Investigate how to best coordinate job-training programs. b. Research work force and local employment opportunities to determine needed skills. 124 Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Encouraging Employment Opportunities that Meets the State's CEBA (Community Economic Betterment Account) Wage Thresholds*(Including Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities): A major problem identified at public meetings is the increasing number of temporary jobs in the area. The peak seasonal periods for temporary employment are November through January and the month of September. It should be noted that temporary jobs are often appropriate in a community where the labor market includes a sizable population seeking such employment, e.g. students. However, such temporary jobs provide no benefits, are often at minimum wage or slightly above, and do not provide a "living" wage in Iowa City. More information is needed to determine how and what types of job opportunities are needed. Strategy: Encourage employment opportunities that pay at least a living wage * (including opportunities for persons with disabilities) Long-Term Objectives: a. Explore and implement mechanisms for increasing full-time, permanent jobs with benefits. b. Continue to publicly recognize employers who creatively address employment concerns. Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Employment Support Services: Employment support services such as childcare and transportation were addressed at public meetings as important needs. Studies are needed to determine ways of meeting these needs in the Iowa City area. The Evert Conner Center offers programs for persons with disabilities that provide independent living skills, career development, comprehensive training in job seeking, advocacy, and personal assistance. Goodwill Industries of Southeast Iowa's Threshold program provides opportunities for successful living for persons with disabilities by providing community based training and employment services. These services include job search training, peer support, job placement, and job coaching. The Institute for Social and Economic Development (ISED) is in its tenth year of operating a microenterprise development program in Iowa City funded with CDBG monies. At the University of Iowa the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) also offers classes targeting microenterprises. Both programs offer classes to teach business skills to develop and start up small businesses. Discussions with ISED and SBDC staff and its clients have pointed to a need for a business incubator in Iowa City. They would like to see both retail and light industrial business incubator that would offer reduced rents and shared office facilities to small business owners. Strategy: Provide Employment Support Services Short-Term Objectives: a. Investigate methods of providing improved transportation and child care services for employees. b. Facilitate supportive employment services for persons with special needs (e.g. job coach, ADA compliance). 125 c. Continue to support agencies that provide microenterprise/entrepreneurial development. d. Expand childcare options or monies pay for childcare for working parents. Long-Term Objectives: a. Provide improved transportation and childcare services for employees. b. Facilitate supportive employment services for persons with special needs (e.g. job coach, ADA compliance). Needs Assessment and Current Programs for Encouraging the Expansion and Retention of Business and Industry that Meets the State's CEBA (Community Economic Betterment Account) Wage Thresholds*: The existing industrial park in southeast Iowa City has recently been expanded and is open to new and relocating businesses. One way to encourage businesses to locate in Iowa City and employ low and moderate income employees is to provide technical assistance, support applications for state funding, or to subsidize the development of infrastructure. There currently is not a program to encourage commercial or industrial rehabilitation, but with the ever increasing commercial and industrial development on the fringes of Iowa City and in surrounding communities, the older centrally located structures may be threatened. If this fringe development continues a program should be developed to encourage rehabilitation of the existing older structures to maintain economic viability and adaptability. Technical assistance for economic development needs in Iowa City is provided by the City of Iowa City's Economic Development Coordinator, the Iowa City Chamber of Commerce, and the Iowa City Area Development Group. Strategy: Encourage the Expansion and Retention of Business and Industry that Meets the State's CEBA (Community Economic Betterment Account) Wage Thresholds* Long-Term Objectives: a. Further the expansion of business and industry by: Facilitating infrastructure improvements. b. Investigating the feasibility of a business incubator; Reviewing current zoning policies to better serve business expansion needs. c. Maintain/retain existing business and industry by reviewing the need for commercial or industrial rehabilitation and continuing to support agencies that provide economic development technical assistance. * The CEBA (Community Economic Betterment Account) Wage Threshold for 2004 in Johnson County is $12.59 an hour. 126 IV G. BARRIERS TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING 1. Strategies to Remove or Ameliorate Public Policies that Serve as Barriers to Affordable Housing The City of Iowa City is exploring the following strategies in an attempt to reduce barriers to affordable housing created by public policies (See Section III. E.): a. Public Policies 1. As directed by the City Council pursues funding for affordable housing from federal, state, and private sources to supplement City efforts to produce affordable housing. 2. Promote Fair Housing and non-discrimination policies and programs. b. Tax Policies 1. Research the ability to use tools as tax abatement and tax increment financing to support the development of affordable housing on a citywide basis. 2. Continue funding of nonprofit and public services from property taxes received by the City. c. Land Use Controls and Zoning Ordinances 1. Ensure that suitable undeveloped land is zoned for higher densities, particularly medium density multi-family development. Where possible, areas that have sufficient infrastructure to accommodate multi-family development will be identified and recommended for possible rezoning. 2. Examine inclusionary zoning practices, including density bonuses for developments that include affordable housing units. 3. Include zoning for lower cost housing alternatives such as single room occupancy (SRO) housing, cooperatives, accessory apartments, manufactured and modular homes. 4. Examine subdivision and infrastructure standards in an attempt to identify standards that may be safely reduced to lesson the cost of infrastructure development for new subdivisions. This review will include the Public Works Department. Minimal levels of safety and infrastructure quality to ensure long-term maintenance will be of concern. 127 d. Building Codes, Fees, and Charges Increase awareness of alternative UBC practices that, if implemented, could reduce the cost of constructing new units. These changes in practices include footings and foundations, wall framing, roofs, plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. The reduction of construction costs may make the building of new affordable units more feasible. e. Growth Limits 1. Pursue in-fill development of nonconforming lots by granting variances, when appropriate. 2. Consider the annexation of land suitable for the development of affordable housing. This would include considering available infrastructure and zoning for higher densities, particularly medium density multi-family housing, manufactured housing, and smaller affordable single-family housing (e.g. attached units). f. Policies that Affect Return on Residential Investment Continue assisting lower income households through the City's various rehabilitation programs, which include CDBG, HOME, and other single-family and rental rehab programs. This assistance provides funding for maintenance and repairs to qualifying households, improving the safety of their homes while protecting the homeowners' investments. g. Dissemination of Information/Community Attitudes 1. Increase awareness about the needs of low-income people and about the availability of services to this population. Though numerous services are available, it is important to recognize that not all needs are being met by the private market, by the City, or by non-profit agencies, and that additional resources are needed to help low-income households. 2. Attempt to address misconceptions and assumptions about low-income households. Attempts to address NIMBY concerns may reduce barriers to housing in areas where fears of high concentrations of "poor people" may be prevalent. IV H. LEAD BASED PAINT HAZARDS In Iowa City there have been a relatively small number of children under age six who have tested positively for elevated blood lead levels. The low number of affected children may be the result of code enforcement and the maintenance practices of local landlords. Even though the number of affected children is low, a number of households remain at risk. According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, there may be as many as 1,364 households with children under age six living in units with lead based paint somewhere within the structure. a. Outline of Actions Proposed and Being Taken Lead poisoning has not been a problem in Iowa City, as very few children show elevated blood lead levels. However, Iowa Department of Public health estimates that there are 147 lead poisoned children in Johnson County. When requested by parents or others, testing can be done by the Johnson County Health Department or private hospitals and clinics. Iowa City's main action at this time is the education its citizens concerning the potential hazards of lead based paint. The 128 Department of Housing and Inspection Services distributes pamphlets and brochures concerning lead based paint hazards to landlords when rental inspections are conducted. The City's Housing Rehabilitation office does testing of paint chips and children when a rehabilitation project is planned for a unit that includes children under age seven. Persons from the Johnson County Department of Health, Apartment Owners Association, Iowa City School District, and the Iowa City Department of Planning and Community Development meet occasionally to discuss the hazards of lead based paint and what actions are necessary to prevent lead poisoning. This committee continues to emphasize community-wide education. During the next year attention should be given to facilitating the identification and organization of testing services that are available for both people and property. Also, materials for public dissemination can be developed. In order to adequately educate the general public on this issue the information on lead paint hazards will be provided to public and private organizations, cable television and radio. b. Description of Integration of Actions into Housing Policy and Programs As stated above, both the Department of Housing and Inspections Services and the Department of Planning and Community Development have engaged in disseminating information and provided testing as necessary. The danger of lead based paint is most prevalent in the owner-occupied housing stock constructed before 1978 containing children under age seven, which represents approximately 980 households in Iowa City (based on Census data and estimated data from Section II.E.). Information on the hazards of lead based paint will continue to be disseminated by the various public agencies and departments. The City will also continue to provide for testing on rehabilitation projects as they are planned. The ICHA will continue to ensure that all its public housing and Housing Choice Voucher rental units are lead free. Further integration of actions to reduce lead based paint hazards will be developed as the need arises and information is provided to the public. IV I. ANTI-POVERTY PLAN AND STRATEGIES 1. Analysis of Poverty in Iowa City The 2000 Census evaluated poverty status for 56,302 people in Iowa City.~ Twenty-one percent, or 12,234 persons, were found to be living in poverty. Poverty data for three types of households were analyzed: married couple, female-headed, and male- headed family households. Of the married couple households, seven percent were living below the poverty level. Among single parent, female-headed households, however, 27.4 percent were living in poverty, which is higher than the citywide average. Census 2000 did not include in its report single parent, male-headed households, living in poverty. ~ The total 2000 Census population of Iowa City is 62,220. Poverty status was determined for all persons except institutionalized persons, persons in military group quarters and in college dormitories, and unrelated individuals under fifteen years old. In Iowa City, the majority of this 5,918 difference is made up of college students in dormitories. 129 Table IV. 6 Poverty Distribution in Iowa City By Age Group Age Group 2000 Total in Poverty Under 5 353 5 years 51 6 to 11 376 12 to 17 298 18 to 24 8,500 25 to 34 1,490 35 to 44 621 45 to 54 285 55 to 64 129 65 to 74 51 75 + 80 City Overall 12,234 (21.7%) Source: 2000 Census Table IV.7 Poverty Distribution in Iowa City By Age Group II 1990 Total 2000 Total Poverty Poverty Number Percentage Age Group Population Population Change Change Under 5 669 353 -316 -53% 5 years 109 51 -58 -47% 6 to 11 419 376 -43 -90% 12 to 17 208 298 +90 +43% 18 to 64 10,417 11,025 +608 +6% 65-74 85 51 -34 -0.6% 75+ 167 80 -87 -.48% Source: 2000 Census Tables IV.6 and IV.7 show the distribution of poverty by age group. Table IV. 6 provides a descriptive summary of the age cohorts in more defined age groups while Table IV.7 demonstrates a comparison of the total poverty population in 1990 and 2000. For the purpose of comparing the Census 2000 data with the Census 1990 data different age cohorts were used. By far the largest age cohort living below the poverty level is the 18 to 24 group; presumably this represents undergraduate students at the University of Iowa to a very large extent. When compared to 1990 Census figures on poverty, there was a significant decrease (17.1%) in the number children under age five. There were also a substantial decrease (15.4 percent and 9.3 percent) in the number of five year olds and six to eleven year olds also living in poverty when compared to 1990 (.4 percent and 3 percent). In fact, overall 9 percent of children under the age of eighteen, or 1,078 children, were living below the poverty level in 1999, when the Census was done. From 1990 to 2000 poverty decreased 1.3% citywide despite the 4.2% increase in population. Therefore, poverty grew at a much slower pace than population. 130 When analyzing children in poverty by household type, there is a significant difference in poverty rates between children in married couple households and those in female-headed households, especially among children five years and younger. When looking at children five years and younger in female-headed households, the percent living in poverty rises to a startling 62 percent. This would seem to indicate the difficulties of surviving in today's economy in a household with only one income. Students. The University of Iowa students and Kirkwood Community College students have a significant impact on the population of Iowa City. There was an enrollment of 29,745 students at the University as of August 2004 and 3,239 at the Iowa City campus of Kirkwood Community College. Using the University's statistics on student age and place of residence with the 2000 Census data, it is estimated that the vast majority of students residing in Iowa City are living in poverty. These students account for the majority of all persons living in poverty in Iowa City. Although most students are likely to be single undergraduates, some of them are 25 years old or older, and may be in need of housing assistance and/or supportive services, particularly if they also have families. Elderly. There was a total of 4,375 persons, aged 65 years and older, living in Iowa City in 2000. This is a 12% increase over the number of persons aged 65 years and older living in Iowa City in 1990. Of those persons aged 65 years and older in 2000, 167 or 4 percent were living below the poverty level. Broken down by household type, only 0.5 percent of elderly persons in married couple households were below the poverty level, while 4.9 percent of elderly persons living alone were below the poverty level. The percent of elderly aged 60-74 that were below the poverty level decreased slightly by 0.6% from 1990. For elderly aged 75 and older the numbers declined significantly by 48% when compared to the elderly aged 75 and older in 1990. Causes of Poverty-Related Problems. According to the Johnson County Human Services Coordinator, anecdotal evidence continues to show the top contributing causes of poverty being most influential in the development of poverty-related problems as: · Unemployment · Underemployment; · Lack of affordable, decent housing; · Negative images of people who are recipients of assistance; · Lack of available funding; and · Lack of policy and widespread community support for poverty issues (this includes the lack of additional federal and state funding programs to address the problem of poverty). Other important causes of poverty cited were the lack of affordable childcare, health care, education; also disability, age, domestic abuse, and chemical dependence. AIDS was not specifically cited during these interviews, but was identified as a cause of poverty in a recent survey conducted by the Iowa Center for AIDS Resources and Education (ICARE). 2. Existing Programs and Policies The City assists human service activities through its annual budget allocations from the General Fund and Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) to the Aid to Agencies Fund. These supportive funds assist local human service organizations with their operating costs. The City has also assisted with affordable housing projects through tax increment financing, tax abatement, and tax exemption. 131 Other funds from the federal and state governments pass through the City to human service agencies. Through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Iowa City Housing Authority assists over 1,304 households each year, all below 50 percent of the median income, with subsidized rental housing, either with City-owned public housing units or with Housing Choice Vouchers. The scope of the Housing Authority's services has expanded with the start-up of the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program (see Section III.B). CDBG funds, also from HUD, benefit low to moderate income persons every year. The funding has been used for projects such as homeless services, housing support services, housing rehabilitation, new construction for low-income rental housing, and a program for youth business training. 3. Community Needs The community needs/gaps that were most apparent from interview responses are: affordable housing, childcare, family preservation, education/job training, community attitudes and services coordination. Of the seventeen agencies interviewed, seven target low-income people, and the other ten target a particular clientele, such as persons who are elderly, disabled, or substance abusers. Through projects funded by CDBG funds, most agencies report that at least 90 percent of their clients were below the poverty level, and several others responded that they assumed that the clientele they serve is mostly below the poverty level. Many agencies do not keep track of income because it is not a requirement for service. While agencies may be serving poor populations, some very poor persons and families may be unintentionally overlooked. For example, financially distressed persons or families may fall through the cracks because of ineligibility for assistance from the Johnson County Department of Human Services. Not only does this agency require its clients to meet certain income level qualifications, but in order to receive certain kinds of assistance, they may, for instance, be required to be unmarried, female, and a parent. There is an urgent need to identify those persons that are slipping through the system and to develop and provide equal and comprehensive services for them. Some agencies reported that they have waiting lists for their services and some have to turn people away due to lack of available funding and/or staff. They also listed some non-financial constraints such as burdensome administrative tasks and a lack of willingness on the part of those in need to accept services (for some, because of fears of stigmatization). 4. Goals, Policies, and Programs The greatest needs in addressing the problems of those living in poverty appear to be: · Affordable Housing · Childcare · Family Preservation · Education/Job Training · Community Attitudes · Services Coordination Affordable Housing. HUD has mandated that the Consolidated Plan be coordinated with other programs and services intended to reduce the number of households with incomes below the poverty threshold. The majority of agencies interviewed for the Anti-Poverty Plan cited the lack of 132 affordable housing in Iowa City as one of the most significant contributors to the problems faced by their clients. Strategies to meet these needs are addressed in the body of this document. Childcare. The lack of funding for decent, affordable childcare is a major problem that prevents many low-income people from making efforts at becoming self-sufficient. Childcare is not affordable for many if they choose to continue their education, and it simply does not pay for a single parent, or even a married parent, to take a job paying minimum wage when childcare is an issue. According to the Human Services Coordinator for Johnson County, childcare is a real gap and a very basic problem for the very poor. At the moment, there is some progress being made in the Iowa City area. Handicare is an integrated daycare setting and a model nationwide that cares for children with disabilities as well as those without. In some traditional settings, some inroads are being made for children who are poor, disabled, or abused. Preliminary work is underway to determine the feasibility of developing day care centers in partnerships with local employers. The University has a small program for its employees, but much more is needed in this area. Many people below the poverty level work or perhaps could work third shift at area manufacturing companies, but childcare at this time of the night is very difficult if not impossible to find. Usually, a second parent stays with the children when a parent works this shift. The key to solving this problem is finding adequate financial resources. Public investment in childcare is cost-effective when compared to the greater costs of job absenteeism, unemployment, and welfare dependence. The City of Iowa City, State Department of Human Services, and local agencies are not in a position to provide the needed funds. There are, however, Iowa Welfare Reform proposals that recommend extending childcare and child support programs after AFDC/FIP eligibility ends. This could be an important first step in assisting many poor children and their families. (See also Section II.B.) Family Preservation. The 2000 Census indicates that a significant number of families, youth, and children are living in poverty. The agency interview responses also focused on the need for more services for families and children. There are currently many programs that provide various types of assistance; many of the programs could be improved by focusing more on preventive intervention and outreach. There is again, however, the problem of limited and restrictive funding sources. Three programs in particular, Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP), the Johnson County Head Start Family Service Program and the Neighborhood Centers of Johnson County, are aimed at the needs of families, youth, and children. The Head Start Family Service Program provides comprehensive child development and family support services to high-risk families with preschool aged children. The Neighborhood Centers provide a range of supportive services for families living in the Pheasant Ridge and Broadway Street neighborhoods. They provide a variety of services such as parent education, financial management, childcare cooperatives, teen groups, family intervention, and preschool groups. The Centers also assist families in finding other resources. In addition, Youth Homes provides transitional shelter for homeless parenting youth, and UAY has a program for teen mothers. These programs are in great demand in the community and often have waiting lists for certain services. Expanding neighborhood-based services throughout the community and creating more case management interaction would assist in earlier, comprehensive intervention. Early and expedient comprehensive intervention will contribute to improving and maintaining nurturing family 133 environments. Neighborhood Centers is in the process of constructed a community center in 2000 that provides opportunities for expanded services. Education/Job Training/Self-Sufficiency Skills. Assistance provided to people in poverty tends to be more oriented toward managing crises that arise rather than prevention of poverty or more long- term intervention that invests in a person's future. However, there are some important services available in Iowa City aimed at addressing the long-range goals of assistance-free, independent living. The development of self-sufficiency skills involves promoting programs for general job training, general and vocational educational opportunities, health care and nutrition, self-esteem enhancement, budgeting/money management, food management, family and parental counseling, skills development, childcare, and communication skills. Many of these are already available in the Iowa City area. Many times the difficulty lies in getting the people who need them to the appropriate program, agency, or course, or in providing adequate financial support for the services. The City will continue to facilitate and enhance the development of self-sufficiency programs such as Successful Living's program, HACAP's Transitional Housing Program, ICHA's Family Self- Sufficiency (FSS) program, and the Shelter House Successful Training with Appropriate Resources (STAR) program. Together these four programs provide a range of services to families and individuals, including child and parent counseling, employment opportunities, financial education, housing, daily living assistance, and semi-independent living services to persons with physical disabilities, mental illness or mental retardation. (See also Section II.C.) Community Attitudes. The agencies interviewed often said that the lack of adequate information regarding the extent and existence of poverty in Iowa City creates misperceptions. Persons living in poverty are often difficult to distinguish visibly; therefore many people in the community do not realize the extent of poverty in Iowa City. There is often a stigma attached to people who receive assistance from local agencies. Some people avoid seeking assistance that could significantly improve their lives because of negative attitudes. In turn this hampers agencies' ability to serve clients in the early stages of a problem because people wait until their situations are more desperate. In order to begin to eliminate this stigma, citizens must be educated about poverty in their community. This can be a very difficult job. Currently, funding is the primary way that the City is choosing to deal with the problem of poverty. City Council support of funding for affordable housing and human service agencies, however, shows residents that it is important to address poverty issues, and that it benefits the community as a whole. Services Coordination. Though wide ranges of services are available to low-income residents, some individuals are unable to take full advantage of these resources. This may be due to a lack of information on what is available or due to inexperience with how to coordinate services to best meet their needs. Throughout the "CITY STEPS" process, both agencies and residents alike reiterated the need for the coordination of available services. Currently the City assists with the funding of the JCCOG Human Services Coordinator who puts agencies in contact with each other, makes referrals and serves as a central location of information on community resources. The City also encourages the coordination of services through projects such as "CITY STEPS," and through the United Way allocation processes. 134 IV J. INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE Institutional Structure and Intergovernmental Cooperation The institutions described below are only those involved in a direct way with the provision of housing in Iowa City, either through programs, projects, or financing. There are dozens of entities that are involved in providing services that indirectly (but no less importantly) keep people from losing housing or allow them the opportunity to look for housing in the first place. Many of these services are catalogued in this document. The largest provider of affordable housing in Iowa City is the Iowa City Housing Authority. Through public housing units and the Housing Choice Voucher program, over 1,304 households are currently assisted with rental housing. The City's Department of Planning and Community Development is a major actor, too, with its Housing Rehabilitation Program, planning and research activities, technical assistance for housing providers, some housing development, and the administration of Community Development Block Grant funds and HOME Investment Partnership Funds, many of which go to housing related projects. The Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF) and Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity are nonprofit organizations devoted to housing low-income families. Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity builds single-family home and sells them to low income homebuyers. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship has concentrated on very low-income renters although they have developed a few units for homeownership. The GICHF is working on developing rental housing and owner-occupied housing in both Iowa City and the surrounding area. Other local non-profits, Successful Living, Inc. and Hawkeye Area Community Action Program are also involved with affordable housing. Both of these organizations are concentrating their current efforts to transitional housing, with supportive services. The local lending institutions play an increasingly important role in the development of affordable housing through in-house first time homebuyer programs and by participating in free homebuyer education forums, in partnership with local realtors. A new addition to the area for housing financing is the Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County. The non-profit housing trust fund is working on building capital and will be offering annual funding awards. Their first funding application process was in December 2004. 135 The importance of the emergency shelters in Iowa City is documented herein. These facilities provide a much-needed service and do so with resources that are always under stress. Iowa City shelters receive funding from the State of Iowa through their Emergency Shelter Grant program. Supportive housing providers play a vital role serving special needs populations in Iowa City. These agencies deal not only with dwindling resources, like the emergency shelters, but philosophical changes in the way they are mandated to serve their populations (such as the State's shift away from group homes for persons with developmental disabilities). Finally, the community's housing rehabilitation programs are extremely important in maintaining the City's affordable housing stock as well as upgrading it, as is the case with accessibility improvements. In addition to these funds, the Housing Rehabilitation program has assessed funds from the Federal Home Loan Bank. PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)/Iowa Department of Economic Development. Through the Iowa Department of Economic Development, the City, nonprofit and for- profit developers will utilize HOME Investment Partnership funds from HUD. Approximately one-third is for acquisition and rehab projects and the other two-thirds is for new construction/conversion. Iowa Finance Authority. In addition to administering a Rental Rehab Program, IFA administers the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program and the Housing Assistance Fund for acquisition, rehab, new construction and home ownership programs. The IFA also helped capitalize the Housing Trust Fund of Johnson County. Iowa City Public Housing Authority. The Public Housing Authority owns and manages 91 units of public housing, dispersed throughout the City plus 1,213 Housing Choice Vouchers. More than 1,667 households are on the waiting list for rental assistance. The Housing Authority has more contact with individuals and families with housing problems than any other agency in the community. It also has almost daily contact with local landlords, through the Housing Choice Voucher program, and with human service agencies. Department of Planning and Community Development. There are 5.75 FTEs in the Community and Economic Development Division will continue its affordable housing activities: 1) research and planning; 2) administer CDBG and HOME funds; 3) prepare the Consolidated Plan, Annual Performance Reports, and the Annual Action Plan; 4) technical assistance for and cooperation with housing nonprofit and for-profit developers; 5) rehabilitation program; and 6) other affordable housing projects. NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP). DVIP serves women and men victims of domestic abuse and their children. DVIP has a facility and children's area that can house approximately 60 people. This is the only emergency shelter of its type in Iowa City and surrounding areas. 136 Ecumenical Consultation of Churches. The Consultation consists of 19 member congregations and is the umbrella organization for the Ecumenical Towers Housing Project, Shelter House (see below), and the Common Fund. Elder Services, Inc. Elder Services, Inc. runs several programs dealing with housing people who are elderly. The Shared Housing program provides elderly persons with housing alternatives, support services and a safe environment, by sharing their home with another person. Each person has private space and shares common areas such as the kitchen and living room. Evert Conner Center for Independent Living. The Evert Conner Center is a private, nonprofit agency teaches daily living skills to adults with developmental disabilities to greatly enhance their ability to participate independently in the community. Skills are taught through self-advocacy, support groups, counseling, and educational and vocational programs. Four Oak; Youth Homes, Inc. Four Oaks Youth Homes provides emergency and short-term care, counseling, and supervision to troubled or homeless unaccompanied adolescents. Its services include crisis intervention counseling; emergency residential services; and group and individual counseling to youth including pregnant teens or teenage mothers who are homeless. Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship (GICHF). The goal of the GICHF is to develop and provide decent, affordable housing for low-income residents of the Iowa City area, especially to holders of Section 8 vouchers and certificates. The GICHF also has a program providing loans for rental deposits. Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity. The Iowa Valley affiliate of this international housing ministry started its chapter in 1994. Low-income families are selected to work with Habitat in the construction of a new home for the family. Habitat for Humanity receives gifts, volunteer time, and no interest loans to build or renovate simple, decent homes for people who are inadequately sheltered. Construction is a cooperative venture between volunteers and homebuyers. Houses are sold at no profit and with a no interest mortgage repaid over a 15 year period. The house payments are then recycled to build more houses. Hawkeye Area Community Action Program. HACAP provides a variety of programs to help those in need in the Iowa City area, several of which are housing related: Energy Assistance; Weatherization; Homeless Outreach and Support; Utility, Shelter and Financial Related Counseling; Mortgage Resolution Assistance, and Transitional Housing. HACAP's Transitional Housing Program provides housing and supportive services for families for up to eighteen months to enable them to become self- sufficient through counseling, referrals, job training, and household management skills. Hillcrest Family Services. Hillcrest Residence (a program of Hillcrest Family Services) has as its mission to help clients become successful in the living, learning, and working environment of their choice, with maximum feasible independence from helping professionals. Hillcrest serves adults with histories of psychiatric or emotional problems that prevent them from living independently. LIFE Skills, Inc. LIFE Skills provides services in many areas to many different groups, but one of its newest programs assists people by teaching the skills needed for both looking for and staying in housing such as budgeting, housekeeping, etc. Shelter House Community Shelter and Transition Services. Shelter House formerly, the Emergency Housing Project (EHP is an emergency shelter serving homeless people. Shelter House provides shelter, showers, telephone, and referrals to appropriate agencies. 137 Successful Living, Inc. Successful Living, Inc. provides transitional housing and supportive services for persons who are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Systems Unlimited Inc. Systems Unlimited provides permanent, long-term housing for people with developmental disabilities in group home and apartment settings. Respite care is available on an emergency basis, if space is available. In-home care is also available. Private Industry Local developers. Over the last five years most of the new affordable housing in Iowa City has come from local for-profit developers. These projects typically leverage funds from many sources, including City and State HOME monies, Housing Assistance Fund, Low Income Housing Tax Credits and private mortgages. Local lending institutions. With the City's involvement, several of the local lending institutions have formed consortia to help fund several recent projects by the Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship for affordable rental housing rehabilitation and new construction. They have indicated interest in continuing assistance for rental and owner-occupied housing projects. The Housing Authority works together with lenders the to provide loans to income eligible families who were participating in TOP or ADHOP. These lenders have agreed to certain financing terms and conditions that have made the dream of home ownership a reality for many families in Iowa City. IV K. COORDINATION The City of Iowa City has a tradition of working closely with both housing and service agencies in the area. Since the City is the Public Housing Authority (PHA), activities in this area are also fairly well coordinated, particularly with the Department of Human Services, the Work Force Office, and with a non-profit agency providing living skills and housing location assistance. The Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) submits recommendations to the City Council regarding CDBG, HOME, and housing policies. HCDC will strive to include a representative member of the Local Homeless Coordinating Board. The Johnson County Human Services Coordinator works closely with the Community Development office as well as the United Way of Johnson County. United Way holds joint hearings with Iowa City, Coralville and Johnson County annually for allocation of funds to human service agencies that make a single application for funding from all four groups. This coordinated funding procedure is extremely helpful in reducing duplication of services and ensuring adequate funding. Non-profit housing providers are part of these agency hearings also. Currently there are only a few private for-profit developers providing affordable housing in Iowa City. The cost and availability of appropriately zoned land, along with high levels of construction make the development of affordable housing a difficult task. The City will continue its efforts to work with other for-profit developers. The City also works closely with the State's Finance Authority and the Department of Economic Development, which administers the State's HUD funds. Most housing projects in Iowa City include not only City but also various State funding sources. Local private lenders also assist with these projects. The PHA program operates countywide both in the rural areas and in other smaller communities. One recent effort in housing has seen the creation of the Johnson County Housing Task Force. This group is 138 comprised of municipal and county officials who are discussing housing issues, needs and strategies throughout the County. Similarly, most human service agencies operate on a countywide level. The City plans to work on more coordination within the county and with smaller governmental jurisdictions, in areas such as housing rehabilitation, transportation and economic development. It plans to do this through the Johnson County Council of Governments (JCCOG). IV L. PUBLIC HOUSING RESIDENT INITIATIVES Required Initiatives: All Public Housing tenants 18 years of age or older, unless exempt, must perform eight (8) hours of community service per month. Community service is defined as the performance of voluntary work or duties that are a public benefit, and serve to improve the quality of life, enhance resident self-sufficiency, or increase resident self- responsibility within the community. Community service is not defined s employment and may not include political activities. Voluntary or Eligibility Based Initiatives: The ICHA operates two self-sufficiency Programs: 1. The Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program promotes self-sufficiency and asset development by providing supportive services to participants' to increase their employability, to increase the number of employed participants and encourages an increase in savings through an escrow savings program. 2. Resident Opportunity Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) is a grant-funded program that provides participants with resources to improve their employment skills through job coaching and educational opportunities. The program also links clients to resources to meet such needs as child care, transportation, education and job training opportunities, employment, money management and other similar needs necessary to achieve economic independence and self- sufficiency. See CITY STEPS; Section IV.C - Strategic Plan on pages 104-108 for more detailed information regarding these initiatives. IV M. MONITORING STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES The City acknowledges that monitoring the Consolidated Plan and the annual activities must be carried out on a regular basis to ensure that statutory and regulatory requirements are being met and that, where appropriate, information being submitted to HUD is correct and complete. Iowa City's Community and Economic Development Division will be responsible for preparing documentation and reports as required by HUD. Additionally, the Community and Economic Development Division staff conducts an on-site monitoring visit(s) for each of the projects. During this visit, staff checks for compliance with regulatory requirements (procurement, accounting, etc.) and 139 whether the subrecipient is meeting the performance goals established within the CDBG or HOME contract(s). The City has traditionally sought citizen review of its CDBG and HOME activities. A citizen board, the Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) serves as an advisory body to the City Council on community issues. HCDC has the responsibility to review each year's CDBG and HOME requests and make recommendations on funding to the City Council. Once projects have been allocated public funds, HCDC assigns each of it's members one or more projects to monitor and periodically report to the committee on the progress of each project he/she is monitoring. Housing projects, current and previously funded are subject to inspection by the City's Housing and Inspection Services (HIS) Office. Rental units must maintain a valid rental permit and be inspected every other year. Since many of the CDBG/HOME assisted units also use Section 8, the rental inspections are annual. The City' s active inspection policies help to ensure a quality housing stock that is safe and sanitary for all Iowa City residents. IV N. Outcome Performance Measures In accordance with HUD Notice CPD-03-09 the Five-year Strategy of this Consolidated Plan, as follows, establishes a performance measurement system. The purpose of this system is to assist in determining how well funded programs are meeting needs by reflecting efficiency of production and effectiveness of impact; the extent to which activities yield desired outcomes with degree of success. The basis of this performance measurement system is to identify broad outcomes and indicators within this plan that generally relate to eligible program activities (as categorized by HUD). The purpose of these broad and generalized outcomes is to serve as a guide for funding applicants. Because each applicant will propose activities to be implemented with varying intent and purpose, unique to their particular mission, they will be required to supply at least one outcome and indicator which is specific to their respective purpose when requesting funding assistance for activities proposed for implementation. To initiate this performance measurement system, it is necessary to define individual parts. The first basic question for any prospective applicant should be, "What is to be accomplished from the expenditure of program funds in terms of benefit(s) to be realized~ through a change in conditions~ status~ attitudes~ skills~ knowledge~ or behavior?" That is essential to both describe and justify expectations. The elements of the performance measurement system which provide the means toward that end also comprise an identification of project goals, inputs, activities, indicators, outputs, and outcomes. Following is a summary representation of each noted element. Goals are proposed solutions to problems or needs (identified as part of a planning process). An example of a goal may be to ensure that everyone has a safe, decent and sanitary home. Objectives quantify measurable stepping stones targeted for attainment as progress is made toward solution of the problem or need (i.e., the goal). An example of an objective may be to make "x" number deteriorated homes safe, decent and sanitary every year. Inputs are resources dedicated to, or consumed by, an activity that is designed to target a specific objective. Examples are: money; staff; equipment and supplies. 140 Activities are objects produced or services undertaken (with inputs) to fulfill a targeted objective. Included are strategies, techniques, and types of treatment that comprise a production process or service methodology. An example of an activity may be to rehabilitate deteriorated homes. Indicators are measures of achievement demonstrating how an activity has caused change through some modification of existing situation. Logically, such change should occur in a positive manner to reflect success. Change may be physical or socioeconomic. When possible, indicators may be quantitative. Industry standards, for example, may indicate the length of time that a home has been extended through rehabilitation for safe, decent and sanitary occupancy. Others, however, may be qualitative. A survey, for example, may indicate before and after attitudes of program participants. Outputs are the direct products or services of an activity. They are usually measured in terms of the volume of work accomplished, such as number of people served, number of loan applications processed, number of units constructed or rehabilitated, linear feet of curbs and gutters installed, or numbers of jobs created/retained. Outputs are always quantitative; a count of what's been produced, who's been served, etc. What outputs don't measure (on their own, however) is the degree of effectiveness achieved. Conducting instruction for "x" youth or seniors, for example, doesn't necessarily mean that anyone learned anything intended. Success is not measured only by numbers served. Rather, it's measured by a positive change or modification of an existing situation determined to be some form of problem or need. Outcomes are the benefits that result from an activity. Outcomes relate to a change in conditions, status, attitudes, skills, knowledge, or behavior. As a generalization, a typical common outcome is improved quality of life for program participants. Other, more specific examples of outcomes may be: improved quality of local housing stock; revitalization of a neighborhood; reduced potential for crime; increased learning skills by youth; better ability for independent living by seniors; etc. To some extent, outcomes will often imitate goal statements because they demonstrate particular benefits being realized toward the solution of problems and needs. In some cases, an output may equate to an outcome. For example, the inherent basic purpose of an emergency homeless shelter is often to simply provide a safe haven for a person on a single overnight basis. While the outcome (i.e., purpose of the activity) is increased safety for a homeless person, in reality the person served (as the indicator) also equates to the outcome. This is because there is no true advancement toward solution of the problem (i.e., homelessness). Rather, the activity is the treatment of a particular symptom. Once the overnight shelter ends, the community still has the same homeless population; if not more. An illustrative example to distinguish between an output and outcome, however, may be an activity that conducts an educational after school program for at-risk youth. The output, from counting children participating, is the number of youth served. The outcome, on the other hand, may be the realization that "x"% of the youth served increased their reading skill from a grade '~v" level to a grade "z". The outcome relates directly back to the purpose of the activity. In this case it is not likely to simply captivate the attention of children after school but, rather, to better educate the children during that time. The most difficult thing to measure as an outcome is intervention. It simply isn't possible to measure something that doesn't happen. How is it possible to know whether intervention really prevents something from happening? Take a program that conducts a drug prevention activity for youth. How is it possible to know whether a drug-free (but otherwise possibly at-risk) child provided preventive counseling would never have tried drugs anyway (from other personal influences)? HOMELESS Generalized Program Outcome: 141 To stabilize the riving environment of persons and famiries who are homeless or near-homeless by improving their shelter and other supportive needs (such as health care); to the extent feasible, with improvement for transition to permanent self-sufficiency. Specific Outcome/Indicator Example: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection Provision of emergency "x" persons provided Count(s) from in-take case shelter overnight beds for overnight shelter, management. homeless persons. SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS / NON-HOMELESS The non-homeless special needs population include those who are or have: - Elderly - Frail Elderly - Severe Mental Illness - Developmentally Disabled - Physically Disabled - Persons with Alcohol/Other Drug Addition - Persons with HIV/AIDS Generalized Program Outcome: To stabilize the living environment of persons and famiries who have special needs specific to the elderly/frail elderly and those with mental illness, disabilities, addictions, and/or illness; to the extent feasible, with improvement for transition to permanent self-sufficiency Specific Outcome/Indicator Example: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection Provision of shelter for "x" persons provided shelter. Count(s) from in-take case persons diagnosed with AIDS. management. HOUSING Programs - Tenant Rental Assistance - Housing Development - Housing Rehabilitation - Fist-time Home Buyer Assistance Generalized Program Outcome: While preserving features with architectural / historic significance, to provide safe, decent, and sanitary shelter through community stability and revitalization efforts (principally for low and moderate income households) by improving the quantity, quality, and/or cost of the local housing stock. 142 Spec tic Outcome/Indicator Exam ,le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The comprehensive "x" % housing units which Compliance with local rehabilitation of deteriorated will provide safe, decent, and building and housing code single family (and/or multi- sanitary shelter for "y" years, upon completion of work. family) homes. NON-HOUSING Anti-Crime Programs - Crime Awareness - Drug Awareness and Resistance Education - Neighborhood Policing & "Cop Shops" Generalized Program Outcome: To increase and/or improve public and/or personal safety. Spec tic Outcome/Indicator Exam ~le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection Establishment of a one-stop "x" % of residents who feel Survey sampling of residents "cop shop" for neighborhood safer as a result of or neighborhood association policing within a high-crime neighborhood policing, members. area. "x" % reduction in crime Police reports. within the neighborhood. Economic Development - Rehabilitation of Publicly or Privately Owned Commercial Space - Commercial/Industrial Land Acquisition/Disposition - Commercial/Industrial Infrastructure Development - Commercial/Industrial Building Acquisition, Construction, Rehabilitation - Other Commercial/Industrial Improvements - Economic Development Direct Financial Assistance for For-Profit Entities - Economic Development Technical Assistance - Micro-Enterprise Assistance Generalized Program Outcome: To increase househoM income (of program participants) through the creation, retention and/or enhancement of employment opportunities. Spec tic Outcome/Indicator Exam ~le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The rehabilitation of "x" jobs created (and/or Payroll records. deteriorated commercial space expanded) that resuks in which will create (and/or increased income. expand) employment opportunity for lower income persons. Infrastructure - Flood Plain Improvements - Water and Sewer Improvements 143 - Street Improvements - Sidewalks - Tree Planting - Removal of Architectural Barriers - Privately Owned Utilities Generalized Program Outcome: I4Zhile preserving features of architectural/historic significance, to improve quahty of life by providing a secure living environment with increased or improved public safety, essential public and private services, and/or accessibility with enhanced aesthetic character. Spec ftc Outcome/Indicator Exam ~le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The replacement of "x" feet of sidewalk replaced Building, engineering, and/or deteriorated (and/or (and/or installed) that results "ADA" compliance upon installation of new) sidewalks,in increased safety and/or completion of construction. handicapped accessibility. Planning and Administration - Neighborhood and Community Development Planning - Removal of Regulatory Barriers - Regulatory Support for Neighborhood Stability - Historic and Neighborhood Preservation - Fair Housing - Administration of CDBG, HOME, and other publicly assisted programs/services. Generalized Program Outcome: Not applicable. (?) Public Facilities - Public Facilities and Improvements - Handicapped Centers - Neighborhood Facilities - Park and Recreations Facilities - Solid Waste Disposal Improvements - Fire Stations/Equipment - Health Facilities - Asbestos Removal - Clean-up of Contaminated Sites - Interim Assistance - Non-Residential Historic Preservation Generalized Program Outcome: IYhile preserving features of architectural/historic significance, with environmental remediation (where necessary), to improve quality of life by creating, increasing, or improving vublic facilities that provide safety and security. Specific Outcome/Indicator Example: Activity / Targeted Indicator(s) / Method of Data Collection The substitution of obsolete [ "x" unit replacement(s) that[ Health code compliance upon 144 wading pool(s) with modern result in improved community completion of construction. splash pad(s), safety. Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The upgradeofplayground ;tx" unit replacement(s) that Compliance with national equipment, result in improved community recreation and/or ttADA" safety and/or accessibility, standards upon completion of construction. Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The installation of ttx" unit installation(s) that Compliance with handicapped handicapped accessible water result in improved accessibility standards upon fountains within public parks, handicapped accessibility, completion of construction. Public Services - Services for Handicapped - Legal Services - Transportation Services - Substance Abuse Services - Employment Training - Health Services - Mental Health Services - Screening for Lead-Based Paint/Lead Hazards Generalized Program Outcome: To improve quahty of life (for program participants) by creating or improving safe, accessible, and well-maintained environments for the delivery of affordable human services. Spec ftc Outcome/Indicator Exam ~le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The provision of treatment to ttx"% of clientele who Discharge forms. reduce substance abuse, complete treatment. ttx"% of clientele who report Initial survey upon service that treatment had a positive completion and/or ttx" month influence in resolving sampling follow-up survey. substance abuse issues. ttx"% of clientele who ttx" month sampling follow-up continue to abstain from survey. substance abuse after completing treatment. Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The provision of job training ttx"% of clientele who report a Survey sampling of program to initiate new (and/or change in employment status participants upon service enhanced) employment with increased income, completion. opportunity with increased income. Senior Programs - Senior Centers - Senior Services Generalized Program Outcome: 145 To improve the quality of life (for program participants) by increasing the ability of seniors to live independently with enhanced provision for adequate health care and social interaction. Spec ftc Outcome/Indicator Exam ,le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The provision of(center) "x"% of clientele who report Survey sampling of program activities that increase (and/or their social interaction has participants upon service improve) social interactive increased or improved as a completion. opportunity for seniors, result of the activity. Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection The provision of chore home "x"% of clientele who report Survey sampling of program services which increase the their ability to live participants upon service ability of seniors to live independently has increased, completion. independently, as a result of the activity. Youth Programs - Child Care Centers - Abused and Neglected Children Facilities - Youth Services - Child Care Services - Abused and Neglected Children Services Generalized Program Outcome: To improve the quality of life (for program participants) by creating, increasing, or improving programs, facilities, and/or services directed toward the improvement of children and youth. Spec ftc Outcome/Indicator Exam ~le: Activity Targeted Indicator(s) Method of Data Collection Provision of adult mentoring "x"% of children who believe Educational test(s) to children in need of mentoring has improved their demonstrating improvement. improved education and/or educational level and/or had a self-esteem positive impact on their self- Survey sampling of program participants upon service esteem, completion. Other - Non-Profit Organization Capacity Building Generalized Program Outcome: (TBD) 146 V. Certifications 147 CPMP Local Grantee Certifications ~ Many elements of this document may be completed electronically, however a signature must be manually applied and the document must be submitted in paper form to the Field Office. [~ This certification does not apply. [~ This certification is applicable. LOCAL GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATIONS In accordance with the applicable statutes and the regulations governing the consolidated plan regulations, the jurisdiction certifies that: Affirmatively Further Fair Housing -- The jurisdiction will affirmatively further fair housing, which means it will conduct an analysis of impediments to fair housing choice within the jurisdiction, take appropriate actions to overcome the effects of any impediments identified through that analysis, and maintain records reflecting that analysis and actions in this regard. Anti-displacement and Relocation Plan -- It will comply with the acquisition and relocation requirements of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended, and implementing regulations at 49 CFR 24; and it has in effect and is following a residential antidisplacement and relocation assistance plan required under section 104(d) of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, in connection with any activity assisted with funding under the CDBG or HONE programs. Drug Free Workplace -- It will or will continue to provide a drug-free workplace by: 1. Publishing a statement notifying employees that the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of a controlled substance is prohibited in the grantee's workplace and specifying the actions that will be taken against employees for violation of such prohibition; 2. Establishing an ongoing drug-free awareness program to inform employees about - a. The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace; b. The grantee's policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace; c. Any available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs; and d. The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations occurring in the workplace; 3. Making it a requirement that each employee to be engaged in the performance of the grant be given a copy of the statement required by paragraph 1; 4. Notifying the employee in the statement required by paragraph 1 that, as a condition of employment under the grant, the employee will - a. Abide by the terms of the statement; and b. Notify the employer in writing of his or her conviction for a violation of a criminal drug statute occurring in the workplace no later than five calendar days after such conviction; 5. Notifying the agency in writing, within ten calendar days after receiving notice under subparagraph 4(b) from an employee or otherwise receiving actual notice of such conviction. Employers of convicted employees must provide notice, including position title, to every grant officer or other designee on whose grant activity the convicted employee was working, unless the Federal agency has designated a central point for the receipt of such notices. Notice shall include the identification number(s) of each affected grant; 6. Taking one of the following actions, within 30 calendar days of receiving notice under subparagraph 4(b), with respect to any employee who is so convicted - a. Taking appropriate personnel action against such an employee, up to and including termination, consistent with the requirements of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; or b. Requiring such employee to participate satisfactorily in a drug abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved for such purposes by a Federal, State, or local health, law enforcement, or other appropriate agency; 7. Making a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free workplace through implementation of paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Anti-Lobbying -- To the best of the jurisdiction's knowledge and belief: 8. No Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid, by or on behalf of it, to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with the awarding of any Federal contract, the making of any Federal grant, the making of any Federal loan, the entering into of any cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment, or modification of any Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement; 9. If any funds other than Federal appropriated funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this Federal contract, grant, loan, or cooperative agreement, it will complete and submit Standard Form-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions; and 148 10. Tt will require that the language of paragraph 1 and 2 of this anti-lobbying certification be included in the award documents for all subawards at all tiers (including subcontracts, subgrants, and contracts under grants, loans, and cooperative agreements) and that all subrecipients shall certify and disclose accordingly. Authority of Jurisdiction -- The consolidated plan is authorized under State and local law (as applicable) and the jurisdiction possesses the legal authority to carry out the programs for which it is seeking funding, in accordance with applicable HUD regulations. Consistency with plan -- The housing activities to be undertaken with CDBG, HOME, ESG, and HOPWA funds are consistent with the strategic plan. Section 3 -- Tt will comply with section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, and implementing regulations at 24 CFR Part 135. 12/08/04 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name Stephen J. Atkins ] Title City Manager ] Address 410 E. Washington Street ] City/State/Zip Iowa City, IA 52240 I Telephone Number 319-356-5010 ] 149 This certification does not apply. This certification is applicable. Specific CDBG Certifications The Entitlement Community certifies that: Citizen Participation -- Tt is in full compliance and following a detailed citizen participation plan that satisfies the requirements of 24 CFR 9:1.:105. Community Development Plan -- Tts consolidated housing and community development plan identifies community development and housing needs and specifies both short-term and long-term community development objectives that provide decent housing, expand economic opportunities primarily for persons of Iow and moderate income. (See CFR 24 570.2 and CFR 24 part 570) Following a Plan -- Tt is following a current consolidated plan (or Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy) that has been approved by HUD. Use of Funds -- Tt has complied with the following criteria: :1:1. Maximum Feasible Priority - With respect to activities expected to be assisted with CDBG funds, it certifies that it has developed its Action Plan so as to give maximum feasible priority to activities which benefit Iow and moderate income families or aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight. The Action Plan may also include activities which the grantee certifies are designed to meet other community development needs having a particular urgency because existing conditions pose a serious and immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community, and other financial resources are not available); :12. Overall Benefit - The aggregate use of CDBG funds including section :108 guaranteed loans during program year(s) 2005, 2__, 2 , (a period specified by the grantee consisting of one, two, or three specific consecutive program years), shall principally benefit persons of Iow and moderate income in a manner that ensures that at least 70 percent of the amount is expended for activities that benefit such persons during the designated period; :13. Special Assessments- Ttwill not attempt to recover any capital costs of public improvements assisted with CDBGfunds including Section :108 loan guaranteed funds by assessing any amount against properties owned and occupied by persons of Iow and moderate income, including any fee charged or assessment made as a condition of obtaining access to such public improvements. However, if CDBG funds are used to pay the proportion of a fee or assessment that relates to the capital costs of public improvements (assisted in part with CDBG funds) financed from other revenue sources, an assessment or charge may be made against the property with respect to the public improvements financed by a source other than CDBG funds. The jurisdiction will not attempt to recover any capital costs of public improvements assisted with CDBG funds, including Section :108, unless CDBG funds are used to pay the proportion of fee or assessment attributable to the capital costs of public improvements financed from other revenue sources. Tn this case, an assessment or charge may be made against the property with respect to the public improvements financed by a source other than CDBG funds. Also, in the case of properties owned and occupied by moderate-income (not Iow-income) families, an assessment or charge may be made against the property for public improvements financed by a source other than CDBG funds if the jurisdiction certifies that it lacks CDBG funds to cover the assessment. Excessive Force -- It has adopted and is enforcing: :14. A policy prohibiting the use of excessive force by law enforcement agencies within its jurisdiction against any individuals engaged in non-violent civil rights demonstrations; and :15. A policy of enforcing applicable State and local laws against physically barring entrance to or exit froma facility or location which is the subject of such non-violent civil rights demonstrations within its jurisdiction; Compliance With Anti-discrimination laws -- The grant will be conducted and administered in conformity with title VI of the Civil Rights Act of :1964 (42 USC 2000d), the Fair Housing Act (42 USC 360:1-36:19), and implementing regulations. Lead-Based Paint -- Its activities concerning lead-based paint will comply with the requirements of part 35, subparts A, B, 3, K and R, of title 24; 150 Compliance with Laws -- Tt will comply with applicable laws. 12/08/04 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name I Stephen J. Atkins I Title City Manager ] Address 410 E. Washington Street ] City/State/Zip Iowa City, IA 52240 ] Telephone Number 319-356-5010 ] 151 [~ This certification does not apply. [--] This certification is applicable. OPTIONAL CERTIFICATION CDBG Submit the following certification only when one or more of the activities in the action plan are designed to meet other community development needs having a particular urgency as specified in 24 CFR 570.208(c): The grantee hereby certifies that the Annual Plan includes one or more specifically identified CDBG-assisted activities, which are designed to meet other community development needs having a particular urgency because existing conditions pose a serious and immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community and other financial resources are not available to meet such needs. L 1 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name Title Address City/State/Zip Telephone Number 152 This certification does not apply. This certification is applicable. Specific HOME Certifications The HOME participating jurisdiction certifies that: Tenant Based Rental Assistance-- Tf the participating jurisdiction intends to provide tenant-based rental assistance: The use of HOME funds for tenant-based rental assistance is an essential element of the participating jurisdiction's consolidated plan for expanding the supply, affordability, and availability of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing. Eligible Activities and Costs -- it is using and will use HOME funds for eligible activities and costs, as described in 24 CFR § 92.205 through 92.209 and that it is not using and will not use HOME funds for prohibited activities, as described in § 92.214. Appropriate Financial Assistance -- before committing any funds to a project, it will evaluate the project in accordance with the guidelines that it adopts for this purpose and will not invest any more HOME funds in combination with other Federal assistance than is necessary to provide affordable housing; 12/08/04 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name I Stephen J. Atkins Title City Manager Address 410 E. Washington Street City/State/Zip Iowa City, IA 52240 Telephone Number 319-356-5010 153 [~ This certification does not apply. [--] This certification is applicable. HOPWA Certifications The HOPWA grantee certifies that: Activities -- Activities funded under the program will meet urgent needs that are not being met by available public and private sources. Building -- Any building or structure assisted under that program shall be operated for the purpose specified in the plan: 1. For at least 10 years in the case of assistance involving new construction, substantial rehabilitation, or acquisition of a facility, 2. For at least 3 years in the case of assistance involving non-substantial rehabilitation or repair of a building or structure. L 1 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name Title Address City/State/Zip Telephone Number 154 [~ This certification does llOt apply. [--] This certification is applicable. ESG Certifications The Emergency Shelter Grantee certifies that: Maior rehabilitation/conversion -- It will maintain any building for which assistance is used under the ESG program as a shelter for homeless individuals and families for at least 10 years. If the jurisdiction plans to use funds for purposes less than tenant-based rental assistance, the applicant will maintain any building for which assistance is used under the ESG program as a shelter for homeless individuals and families for at least 3 years. £ssential Services -- It will provide services or shelter to homeless individuals and families for the period during which the ESG assistance is provided, without regard to a particular site or structure as long as the same general population is served. Renovation -- Any renovation carried out with ESG assistance shall be sufficient to ensure that the building involved is safe and sanitary. Supportive Services -- It will assist homeless individuals in obtaining appropriate supportive services, including permanent housing, medical and mental health treatment, counseling, supervision, and other services essential for achieving independent living, and other Federal State, local, and private assistance. Matching Funds -- It will obtain matching amounts required under §576.71 of this title. Confidentiality -- Tt will develop and implement procedures to ensure the confidentiality of records pertaining to any individual provided family violence prevention or treatment services under any project assisted under the ESG program, including protection against the release of the address or location of any family violence shelter project except with the written authorization of the person responsible for the operation of that shelter. Homeless Persons Involvement -- To the maximum extent practicable, it will involve, through employment, volunteer services, or otherwise, homeless individuals and families in constructing, renovating, maintaining, operating facilities, and providing services assisted through this program. Consolidated Plan --Tt is following a current HUD-approved Consolidated Plan or CHAS. [ ] Signature/Authorized Official Date Name Title Address City/State/Zip Telephone Number 155 [--] This certification does llOt apply. [~ This certification is applicable. APPENDIX TO CERTIFICATIONS Instructions Concerning Lobbying and Drug-Free Workplace Requirements Lobbying Certification This certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when this transaction was made or entered into. Submission of this certification isa prerequisite for making or entering into this transaction imposed by section 1352, title 31, U.S. Code. Any person who fails to file the required certification shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than $10,000 and not more than $100,000 for each such failure. Drug-Free Workplace Certification 1. By signing and/or submitting this application or grant agreement, the grantee is providing the certification. The certification is a material representation of fact upon which reliance is placed when the agency awards the grant. If it is later determined that the grantee knowingly rendered a false certification, or otherwise violates the requirements of the Drug-Free Workplace Act, HUD, in addition to any other remedies available to the Federal Government, may take action authorized under the Drug-Free Workplace Act. Workplaces under grants, for grantees other than individuals, need not be identified on the certification. If known, they may be identified in the grant application. If the grantee does not identify the workplaces at the time of application, or upon award, if there is no application, the grantee must keep the identity of the workplace(s) on file in its office and make the information available for Federal inspection. Failure to identify all known workplaces constitutes a violation of the grantee's drug-free workplace requirements. Workplace identifications must include the actual address of buildings (or parts of buildings) or other sites where work under the grant takes place. Categorical descriptions may be used (e.g., all vehicles of a mass transit authority or State highway department while in operation, State employees in each local unemployment office, performers in concert halls or radio stations). If the workplace identified to the agency changes during the performance of the grant, the grantee shall inform the agency of the change(s), if it previously identified the workplaces in question (see paragraph three). The grantee may insert in the space provided below the site(s) for the performance of work done in connection with the specific grant: Place of Performance (Street address, city, county, state, zip code) Check if there are workplaces on file that are not identified here. The certification with regard to the drug-free workplace is required by 24 CFR part 21. Place Name Street City County State Zip City Hall 410 E. Washington St. Iowa City Johnson IA 52240 Definitions of terms in the Nonprocurement Suspension and Debarment common rule and Drug-Free Workplace common rule apply to this certification. Grantees' attention is called, in particular, to the following definitions from these rules: "Controlled substance" means a controlled substance in Schedules I through V of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812) and as further defined by regulation (21 CFR 1308.11 through 1308.15); "Conviction" means a finding of guilt (including a plea of nolo contendere) or imposition of sentence, or both, by any judicial body charged with the responsibility to determine violations of the Federal or State criminal drug statutes; "Criminal drug statute" means a Federal or non-Federal criminal statute involving the manufacture, distribution, dispensing, use, or possession of any controlled substance; "Employee" means the employee of a grantee directly engaged in the performance of work under a grant, including: a. All "direct charge" employees; b. all "indirect charge" employees unless their impact or involvement is insignificant to the performance of the grant; and c. temporary personnel and consultants who are directly engaged in the performance of work under the grant and who are on the grantee's payroll. This definition does not include workers not on the payroll of the grantee (e.g., volunteers, even if used to meet a matching requirement; consultants or independent contractors not on the grantee's payroll; or employees of subrecipients or subcontractors in covered workplaces). 156 Note that by signing these certifications, certain documents must completed, in use, and on file for verification. These documents include: 1. Analysis of Tmpediments to Fair Housing 2. Citizen Participation Plan 3. Anti-displacement and Relocation Plan 12/08/04 Signature/Authorized Official Date Name I Stephen J. Atkins I Title City Manager I Address 410 E. Washington Street I City/State/Zip Iowa City, IA 52240 I Telephone Number 319-356-5010 ] 157 158 VI. Appendices 159 APPENDIX 1 CITY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING PARTICIPANTS 160 STEPS PUBLIC MEETING 161 CITY STEPS 162 CiTY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING CBB~ HOE~E 163 STEPS 164 CITY STEPS 165 166 CITY STEPS 167 (;llY SI'EPS (;()NSUL l A'i'iON MEETING 168 APPENDIX 2 PUBLIC MEETINGS INFORMATIONAL FLYER 169 2006~2010 ::~m<:~.<: 170 171 APPENDIX $ PUBLIC MEETING: SUMMARY OF COMMENTS 172 CiTY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING Emma Harvat Hall, City Hair Wednesday, July 7, 2004 6:30-8:00 p.m. SUGGF, STIONS FOR TIlE MODERATOR 1. Introduce yoursclf(Linda Scvcrson) and the organization (JCCOG) tha. t ~rou represent 2. State lhe general topics for tonight's discussion (Public Services and Facilities) 3. Set the tone of the meeting (informal) 4. Introduce City Staff( Tamara Robinson, Tracy HJghtsl~oe) who will explain CITY STEPS 5. Ask people to state their name and orgmfizatJ0n (if applicable) before they speak 6, Encourage people to discuss their needs and other needs they see in the conununity 7. Welcome all ideas and Questions! There is no such thing as a bad idea 8. Ma_kc sure that everyone has a chance to comment Place 3-minnte limit on comments_ Do n°t let any one person monopoiiz~ the meeting 10. Remind everyone to sign in so we can keep then~ updated QUESTIONS FOR THE MEETING 1. Accessibility (getting there) to human service agencies and papm~,ork 14an'icrs 2. Dependent care issues (availability and cost) 3. Other Public Facility Needs: Youth Centers, Neighborhood Centers, otc, 4. Public 'Service Needs: Transportation, Health, Se~{or Services, 5. Issues pertaining to job training and education 6, Barriers to community involvement or perceptions of neighborhoods What works? Pmv'ide good examples oflbings so we can duplLcate them 8. EmSancemems or gaps in services or facilities? 173 CITY. STEPS' PUBLIC MEETING Sheraton Hotel, Llndqulst Theatre Room, Lower Level Wednesday, July 2t, 2004 12-'30-'1:30 p.m. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE MODERATOR 1. Inlxodace yourself (Rebecca Neades) and th.¢ org~izafion'(Chambcr of Comate~ce) that you represent 2. State the general topic (Economic Development) 3. Set the tone of thc meeting (imrorm~) 4.. Introduce City Staff(Steve Nasby, 'l'~ra Robinson, Trm;y Hightshoe) who will explain CITY STEPS & tl~e Role o£ ColtlmunJty Development Block £h'ants (CDBG) 5. Ask people to state their name and organiiafion (if applicable) before they speak 6. Encourage pcopl, e to di~cu~a theix needs and other needs they ~ee in the commmtity 7. Welcome all ideas and Questions! No such thi~ as a bad idea 8, Make sure flint eveD~one has a chance m commcm 9. Place 3-minute tiadt on conmcnts. Do no~ let m~y one per, on monopolize the meeting t0. Remind eyeD'otto to sign in so wc can kcep them updated OUESIlONS Iq'OR TH£ 5,~;ETING 1. Econm~c development issues and projects 2. Accesaibility needs (such as meeting .&DA) Job h-aining or educational issues 4. Transportation needs or concerns 5. Perceptions of the lowa City economic enx~imnment 6. Borders to fintti~xg and relaining employees 7. G~s 8. What work~? Provide good example~ of things so we can duplic,ae them 174 CITY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING Emma Harvat Hall, City Hall Wednesday, July 14, 2004 11) a.m. SUGGESTIONS FOR THE MODERATOR l, In.educe yours¢lf(Day~ B~ll~t'yn¢) and the or~ization (Crisis Ccttter) that you r~m_'s~/ 2. State the geaeraf topica for this mornings dismtssion (Houaing and Homeless i~ucs) 3. Set the tone ofthcmccfing 0afrmnal) 4. latrodu,c City Staff( Tamara Robinsoz~, Stepheu Long, Ir~y }Iightshoe) who ~rill explain CITY STF]IS 5. Ask people to state theJ[ name and organ/zadon 0fappli~ble) before the).' speak 6. Eacourage people to discuss their meeds and oth~ needs they roe 7. Welcome all ideas and Qae~ions[ lliexe isno such thing aa a bad idea 8. Make sore tt~at everyoa¢ l~as a ehaa~ to ~mmem 9. Place 3-~rdnute limit on comments. Do not let any one person monopoli~ thc meeting 1~. Re, find everyoae to sign ia ao we can keep thinx apdatc'd. l ]. l~.nd timc-l l:15 am. Sp¢~:ial £51y Counizil MCC[iag at I ! :30 in E. mra~ H~n.'at Hall QUESTIONS trOR TIIE MEETII~'G t. I,c, cafion m~d avail~bilit, y ofhousiu~ near m-vices such ~s grocery, medical, clay care, ~chool 2. Gaps or erhaneemenm ofexistiag housing oplions 3. Barriers to affordable booing-landlords, depoht coshs, rent levels 4. Priority Need? ~Iomeless-Traasiffoaal-l>erm~nen:? Trends[ 5. lx-IMBY ('Not Ja My Back Yard} ir,~-aues or other community attitudes 6. What worlds'? Pro~Sde good e×ample~ of thing~ ~o we cml duplicate then] 175 CITY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING COMMENTS July 7, 2004 Public Services Need uniform application forms and/or a central system for service delivery. The same information is basically necessary for all services. Entire system needs to be more efficient. Should not require multiple trips and excess forms. -Bus tickets are expensive if multiple trips are necessary. -Very difficult to get to appointments. Transportation and scheduling a problem. Encourage agencies to be open one Saturday a month or open late one night a week. Dial 2-1-1 possibilities for information and resource. Dependent care issues. Cost is a factor, but ability to get the kids to a childcare facility is important too. Public Facilities PALS, DVIP, and Free Medical Clinic - shortage of space Transportation and daycare always a problem for low-income residents. Need training opportunities for decent paying jobs that provide benefits. Emphasis on vocational training. Many Kirkwood vocational classes only open in Cedar Rapids. This is a transportation problem for IC residents. Need space for vocational training. Possible partnership with Mercy Hospital for health related careers. Pay instructors to teach classes in Iowa City, near transit routes. Provide daycare possibilities by the IC Kirkwood campus. Encourage closer ties/partnerships with Kirkwood and major employers. General Comments Barriers to community involvement: transportation (weekend bus routes limited, IC/Coralville connections not coordinated), daycare, access to information difficult and multiple sources. What programs work? Cited Shelter House, HACAP, and GICHF. Programs focusing on financial skills: budgeting, how to improve your credit, home ownership classes, etc. 176 Gaps in service: vocational training, transition assistance for elderly/disabled residents when moving to a housing unit and on-going assistance to maintain independent. Need additional single room occupancy (SRO) units as not many available. SROs provide decent, affordable housing for low-income or disabled persons. 177 CITY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING COMMENTS July 14, 2004 Housing and Homeless Location and availability o/housing near services such as grocery, medical, day care, school. -The areas that are close to services fall under the new Iowa City scattered site policy. -The units at Triple Crown are difficult to get to by public transportation. -The IC bus system is not comprehensive and not interconnected well with Coralville. -No bus service is available along the corridor and the area is booming. The bus routes on the weekend are not frequent and non-existent on Sundays. -No reliable bus service to Lexington Place and Concord Terrace. -Sunday church service is not accessible by bus. -Difficult to get to children' s activities in the evening. -Long commutes because all of the buses go through downtown. -Need later bus service for 2nd shift workers. No bus service to Chatham Oaks. Gaps or enhancements' of existing housing options. -Not many affordable options for housing for single males. -Difficult for persons coming out of Hope House to find housing. -IC has a high need for housing for single men due to the VA Hospital. Are there any HUD funds to meet those needs? -Explained that the City does get HOME & CDBG funds based on census figures that includes the VA. Barriers to affordable housing landlords, deposit costs, rent levels'. -More funding for deposit assistance is needed. -A lot of landlords do not accept Section 8 tenants. -Youth have a difficult time finding housing due to lack of experience. -Many landlords require a co-signer, which tends to benefit students. 178 -There is a 2-year waiting list for Section 8 and the credit check is a barrier. -Section 8 creates a problem with managers because the funds do not arrive in time. -What can be done to shorten the 2-year waiting period? -The only way to reduce the time is to have turnover. There are currently 1213 vouchers available. -There are problems with utility shut-offs, extra charges. There needs to be more assistance and for the system to be more low-income friendly. -The City has a program for discount water bills, but there is not currently a program for utility deposits. Priority Need? Homeless-transitional-permanent? Any trends? -Job development - private and public -Consolidate all programs downtown or at least one representative from each agency at a central location. -These are regional issues and other communities need to step up. We are the richest society in history, so we need to demand that we do better to meet the needs. -There has been an increase in service jobs that do not pay enough to live. Local businesses get incentives, but the City and State do not require that a living wage be paid. Also, there is a high priority for a new shelter. -Need a better link between economic development and housing. -Promote small business development. -Need a living wage. -Need to elevate the right to housing. NIMBY issues or other community attitudes. -Attitudes in Iowa City need to change. Iowa City is not as open as community thinks. There is fear and ignorance against persons of color, the poor and persons not in the mainstream. -We have a population of bigots. -People in school offices do not want to take the initiative to call for transcripts and other records. -The Iowa City recreation dept. is not friendly to homeless. They moved the television to a corner of the room with no chairs because they do not want homeless people. -Thrilled to see programs in SE Iowa City. We should be capitalizing more on people moving here from other places. 179 -Pleased with the joint program with the City Housing Authority for vocational training. -Transitional housing program at MECCA has been a success. -STAR has been a success for five years. -The Housing Trust Fund of JC is up and running and the first funding cycle will be in December. -Oxford House has been a success. 180 CITY STEPS PUBLIC MEETING COMMENTS July 21, 2004 Economic Development Local standards for jobs are not high enough. (What are the standards of economic development in Iowa City) HUD has standards and the local government has guidelines. Opposed to any local set-aside of CBDG funds for three reasons: economic development for three reasons: There are pressing needs elsewhere, There are already sufficient local, state, and federal sources of economic development assistance There are, as it stands, insufficient standards governing the sorts of business or employment covered by any economic development funds. If, in the face of these competing demands, the City sees fit to set aside a portion of its CDBG funds for economic development, it should set firm and transparent standards that are in keeping with CDBG's mandate to assist low and moderate income residents. We could approach these standards in one of two ways: - The City could establish a high wage threshold, in keeping with the broader spirit of economic development, that jobs subsidized by taxpayers not in turn create new burdens on public services or programs. A recent study commissioned by the Iowa Department of Economic Development established an hourly rate of $13.55 as the wage that enables workers (or their dependents) to get by without relying on other public programs (Hawk-I, reduced fee school lunches, etc). - The City could establish a set of guidelines specifically crafted for those citizens (workers) targeted by CDBG. These might include: · A basic wage threshold · Provision of health insurance · Provision of training · Access to public transit · Requirements that subsidized employers partner with local social service agencies in hiring Given the budgetary climate surrounding CDBG and the availability of other economic development programs, the City should think carefully about the best ways of serving the goals of CBDG and "City Steps." If CBDG funds are set aside for economic development, they should be subject to high and transparent wage and job quality standards. There is a need for more "traditional" transportation. Transportation options are just not available. There is a number of"unemployed and underemployed" due to transportation issues. 181 Large amount of CDBG funds are being used to fund economic development projects. This effectively reduces CDBG funds to be used for other projects. Economic development funds have not been assessed very well. Affordable housing is an important part of economic development. In Johnson County housing as economic development has not been widely acknowledged. The government exists to do what the public sector is otherwise unable and/or unwilling to do. CDBG funds need to be targeted at low-income housing. The local public sector DOES create an abundance of $6 to $10 per hour jobs; that is not the issue. The problem is that these jobs do not pay well enough to allow families to afford the housing that is available in Iowa City. The local public sector DOES NOT build nor lease enough affordable housing. Experience shows us that we have greater success building affordable housing. This approach is cheaper, lasts longer, and requires less guesswork (i.e. "picking winners"). Iowa City has the jobs low-income families need. However, as a city and a society there is a lack of support (transportation, childcare, affordable housing, drug treatment, etc.) necessary to allow low- income folks to avail themselves of these jobs. Option would be to put all the CDBG funds targeted toward Economic Development back into the larger pot, and focus instead on the single biggest social issue facing the Iowa City area which is affordable housing. When job are created but does not create self-sufficiency standards (transportation, affordable housing, etc.) there are costs to society that we pay for later. Next step beyond apprenticeship is to determine important ability of a person. Need to be an educational process with employers. Many applicants are discredited because of their address listed on the application. The goal is to move people toward self-sufficiency. Quality applicant regardless of where he/she is living. Therefore, there is a need to spend economic development funds on educating employers. There is a need to look at specific standards (career ladders, training components, and access to transportation) moving away from generic standards. Creating opportunities means making compromises. Local business lack knowledge necessary to obtain and use economic development funds. Small businesses are on the outside looking in and may not be able to create critical mass and be effective. Issues in terms of accessibility. - Training - Knowledge of the application process - Create a process in which bankers, investors, and the workforce could collaborate and address needs. 182 CITY STEPS CONSULTATION MEETING COMMENTS HOUSING AND SERVICE PROVIDERS September 23, 2004 Primary topic of discussion: Poverty Distribution in Iowa City Upon review of poverty distribution in Iowa City by age in 1990 and 2000 the following results were found. In 2000, compared to 1990 the number of individuals below poverty in Iowa City dropped significantly, especially in the age cohort under 5. Overall, Iowa City's percentage below poverty level was at 21.7%, which was 1.7% lower than in 1990. During the consultation meeting the group was asked to respond to the results of the Poverty Distribution Table. The group's reactions to the results are as follows: -The numbers must have been skewed somehow. There are so many people in the City with high incomes so they are destroying percentages. -Poverty distribution does not include the homeless, those in transitional housing, or doubled up. -There really is not a positive impact. The numbers are not going down as fast as we think. There is only a shifting of the age cohort does not necessarily mean people are moving out of poverty. -Organizations are relatively small. There is a large impact on service providers regardless. The rate of support will continue to drop because there is nowhere for poverty stricken individuals to go. -Students will continue to take over any affordable housing. -Poverty results showed a 6% increase in poverty for age cohort 18-24. Although not disturbing results, assumptions were made that this age cohort is primarily made up of students attending the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Community College. -Some service providers suggested that additional information would be required. Better way to determine the poverty levels would be to review free and reduced lunch, Title 19 and Title XX statistics. Additional Comments: Childcare Childcare should be established at Kirkwood while parent(s) are attending classes. Those seeking childcare would love to go to school but cannot due to limited childcare options. Need for more space and slots at childcare centers. Daycare should be established as a final destination spot so that there are not too many stops between school and/or work and home. 183 Transportation Transportation and commuter trips will continue to increase. Many cannot have a permanent address because rents are high. Transportation is difficult for those with childcare. Length of' time it takes to get child to and from daycare center and to and from work, especially if` the parent(s) lack reliable transportation and rely on the public transportation system. Need a van to make additional stops. However, not sure if` the public transportation system can handle this type of` responsibility. Need to sub- out to a private agency so that the responsibility is shared to get individuals where they have to go and in a timely manner. Specialized transportation is key. Shelter House is considering a shuttle for childcare and employment trips. Focational Training Interested in training programs and employment opportunities. Lack of`ties of`High school students to jobs. Notion for Kirkwood Community College to develop vocational training programs in Iowa City rather than solely in Cedar Rapids. However, vocational training does not appear to be the focus in Iowa City. Expand vocational training to target small businesses and other organizations. Many tenants have worked for ACT/NCS as temps, but never had the opportunity to acquire skills that would lead to better opportunities. These people should be provided with a skilled trade so they do not end up graduating from a program and end up on Section 8 for years at a time. Members of`the group were asked to provide a biggest community need and priority. The responses are as follows: Biggest Community Need Biggest Priority Childcare Training and Vocational Opportunities Affordable Housing Targeting Housing Affordable Housing Housing Wage Affordable Housing Creating Affordable Housing Affordable Housing Housing Wage Healthcare Affordable Housing Job Development Transportation Relating To Employment Affordable Housing Shelter Services Jobs That Pay A Living Wage Development of The Labor Force Affordable Housing Job Development Affordable Housing Emergency Housing Housing Job Development Affordable Housing Access to Vocational Training Exploring Ways To Increase Private/Public Picking workable small things to get Partnerships (Housing, Jobs, & Training) collaboration on. 184 CITY STEPS CONSULTATION MEETING COMMENTS UNITS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENTS September 23, 2004 Having a Consortium (government coordination) throughout the community with Coralville and other neighboring cities. HOME/CDBG programs could be funded for Coralville through the State. The Consortium would require the completion of its own plan. With the population increasing more programs are going on outside the boundaries of Iowa City. Consortium could be used for economic development or other community based activities. Downside- Consortium may create transportation issues. -May want to consider a neighboring bus system to coordinate with Iowa City. Concerns have been made regarding the Coralville bus system not addressing the transportation needs of residents who use the system (i.e. infrequent routes, availability of buses on weeknights and weekends, etc). 185 APPENDIX 4 GENERAL DEFINITIONS 186 General Definitions Affordable Housing: Affordable housing is generally defined as housing in which the occupant is paying no more than 30 percent of gross income for gross housing costs, including utility costs. AIDS and Related Diseases: The disease of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or any conditions arising from the etiologic agent for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Alcohol/Other Drug Addiction: A serious and persistent alcohol or other drug addiction that significantly limits a person's ability to live independently. American Dream Downpawnent Initiative (ADDI) Program: Program created in 2003 to provide funding that would assist low-income families to become fist-time homebuyers. Assisted Household or Person: For the purpose of identification of goals, an assisted household or person is one which during the period covered by the annual plan will receive benefits through the Federal funds, either alone or in conjunction with the investment of other public or private funds. The program funds providing the benefit(s) may be from any funding year or combined funding years. A renter is benefited if the person takes occupancy of affordable housing that is newly acquired, newly rehabilitated, or newly constructed, and/or receives rental assistance through new budget authority. An existing homeowner is benefited during the year if the home's rehabilitation is completed. A first-time homebuyer is benefited if a home is purchased during the year. A homeless person is benefited during the year if the person becomes an occupant of transitional or permanent housing. A non-homeless person with special needs is considered as being benefited, however, only if the provision of supportive services is linked to the acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction of a housing unit and/or the provision of rental assistance during the year. Households or persons who will benefit from more than one program activity must be counted only once. To be included in the goals, the housing unit must, at a minimum, satisfy the HUD Section 8 Housing Quality Standards (see 24 CFR section 882.109). CHAS (Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy): A comprehensive plan related only to affordable housing needs in Iowa City. CHAS data are different than the standard Census 2000 data files as they are comprised of a variety of housing needs variables split by HUD defined income limits. The CHAS plan was the predecessor (pre-FY95) of this Consolidated Plan. Committed: Generally means them has been a legally binding commitment of fimds to a specific project to undertake specific activities. Concentration of Low-Income Populations: Any census tract or block group where 51% or more of the households have an income at or below 80% of median. Concentration of Minority Groups: Any census tract with a percentage of minority households at least 10% greater than in the citywide population. Conditional Occupancy Loan: A lien against real property which is repaid only upon transfer of title, rental of the property, or termination of services, occupancy, or housing as outlined in the applicable CDBG/HOME Agreement. Congregate Housing: An independent group living arrangement which offers opportunities for increased social interaction and provides a minimum of services such as on-site meals in a common dining room plus one or more of such services as on-site medical/nursing, personal care, or housekeeping services. Congregate housing is not nursing home care. 187 Consistent with the Consolidated Plan: A determination made by the jurisdiction that a program application meets the following criterion: The Action Plan for that fiscal year's funding indicates the jurisdiction planned to apply for the program or was willing to support an application by another entity for the program; the location of activities is consistent with the geographic areas as specified in the plan; and the activities benefit a category of residents for which the jurisdiction's five-year strategy shows a priority. Cost Burden >30%: The extent to which gross housing costs, including utility costs, exceed 30 percent of gross income, based on data published by the U.S. Census Bureau Cost Burden >50% (Severe Cost Burden): The extent to which gross housing costs, including utility costs, exceed 50 percent of gross income, based on data published by the U.S. Census Bureau. Disabled Household: A household composed of one or more persons at least one of whom is an adult (a person of at least 18 years of age) who has a disability. A person shall be considered to have a disability if the person is determined to have a physical, mental, or emotional impairment that: (1) is expected to be of long-continued and indefinite duration, (2) substantially impeded his or her ability to live independently, and (3) is of such a nature that the ability could be improved by more suitable housing conditions. A person shall also be considered to have a disability if he or she has a developmental disability as defined in the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (42 U.S.C. 6001-6006). The term also includes the surviving member or members of any household described in the first sentence of this paragraph who were living in an assisted unit with the deceased member of the household at the time of his or her death. Economic Independence and Self-Sufficiency Programs: Programs undertaken by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) to promote economic independence and self-sufficiency for participating families. Such programs may include Project Self-Sufficiency and Operation Bootstrap programs that originated under earlier Section 8 rental certificate and rental voucher initiatives, as well as the Family Self- Sufficiency program. In addition, PHAs may operate locally developed programs or conduct a variety of special projects designed to promote economic independence and self-sufficiency. Elderly Household: For HUD rental programs, a one or two person household in which the head of the household or spouse is at least 62 years of age. Elderly Person: A person who is at least 62 years of age. Existing Homeowner: An owner-occupant of residential property who holds legal title to the property and who uses the property as his/her principal residence. Family: The Bureau of Census defines a family as a householder (head of household) and one or more other persons living in the same household who are related by birth, marriage, or adoption. The National Affordable Housing Act of 1992 adds: "Family" includes but is not limited to (a) An elderly family or single person, (b) the remaining member of a tenant family; and (c) a displaced person. Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program: A program enacted by Section 554 of the National Affordable Housing Act which directs Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and Indian Housing Authorities (IHAs) to use Section 8 assistance under the rental certificate and rental voucher programs, together with public and private resources to provide supportive services, to enable participating families to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. 188 Family Investment Program (FIP): A program enacted by Section 554 of the National Affordable Housing Act which directs Public Housing Agencies and Indian Housing Authorities to use Section 8 assistance under the rental certificate and rental voucher programs, together with public and private resources to provide supportive services, to enable participating families to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. First-time Homebuyer: An individual or family who has not owned a home during the three-year period preceding the HUD-assisted (or otherwise assisted) purchase of a home that must be used as the principal residence of the homebuyer, except that any individual who is a displace homemaker or a single parent (as defined in 24 CFR 92) may not be excluded from consideration as a first-time homebuyer on the basis that the individual, while a homemaker or married, owned a home with his or her spouse or resided in a home owned by the spouse. For Rent: Year round housing units that are vacant and offered/available for rent. (U.S. Census definition) For Sale: Year round housing units that are vacant and offered/available for sale only. (U.S. Census definition) Frail Elderly: An elderly person who is unable to perform at least three activities of daily living (i.e., eating, dressing, bathing, grooming, and household management activities). Group Quarters: Facilities providing living quarters that are not classified as housing units (U.S. Census definition). Examples include: prisons, nursing homes, dormitories, military barracks, and shelters. HOME: The HOME Investment Partnerships Program, which is authorized by Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act. Homeless Family: Family that includes at least one parent or guardian and one child under the age of 18, a homeless pregnant woman, or a homeless person in the process of securing legal custody of a person under the age of 18. Homeless Individual: An unaccompanied youth (17 years or younger) or an adult (18 years or older) without children. Homeless Youth: Unaccompanied person 17 years of age or younger who is living in situations described by terms "sheltered" or "unsheltered". Household: One or more persons occupying a housing unit (U.S. Census definition). See also "Family". Housing Problems: Households with housing problems include those that: (1) occupy units meeting the definition of Physical Defects; (2) meet the definition of overcrowded; and (3) meet the definition of cost burden greater than 30 percent. Housing Support Services: Services provided to assist low income renters or homeowners to locate or remain in their housing units, including counseling, child care, transportation, substance abuse treatment, training in homemaking and parenting skills, money and household management, counseling in homeownership, job placement, and other necessary and appropriate services. Housing Unit: An occupied or vacant house, apartment, or a single room (SRO housing) that is intended as separate living quarters. (U.S. Census definition) 189 Family Investment Program (FIP): A program enacted by Section 554 of the National Affordable Housing Act which directs Public Housing Agencies and Indian Housing Authorities to use Section 8 assistance under the rental certificate and rental voucher programs, together with public and private resources to provide supportive services, to enable participating families to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. First-time Homebuyer: An individual or family who has not owned a home during the three-year period preceding the HUD-assisted (or otherwise assisted) purchase of a home that must be used as the principal residence of the homebuyer, except that any individual who is a displace homemaker or a single parent (as defined in 24 CFR 92) may not be excluded from consideration as a first-time homebuyer on the basis that the individual, while a homemaker or married, owned a home with his or her spouse or resided in a home owned by the spouse. For Rent: Year round housing units that are vacant and offered/available for rent. (U.S. Census definition) For Sale: Year round housing units that are vacant and offered/available for sale only. (U.S. Census definition) Frail Elderly: An elderly person who is unable to perform at least three activities of daily living (i.e., eating, dressing, bathing, grooming, and household management activities). Group Quarters: Facilities providing living quarters that are not classified as housing units (U.S. Census definition). Examples include: prisons, nursing homes, dormitories, military barracks, and shelters. HOME: The HOME Investment Partnerships Program, which is authorized by Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act. Homeless Family: Family that includes at least one parent or guardian and one child under the age of 18, a homeless pregnant woman, or a homeless person in the process of securing legal custody of a person under the age of 18. Homeless Individual: An unaccompanied youth (17 years or younger) or an adult (18 years or older) without children. Homeless Youth: Unaccompanied person 17 years of age or younger who is living in situations described by terms "sheltered" or "unsheltered". Household: One or more persons occupying a housing unit (U.S. Census definition). See also "Family". Housing Problems: Households with housing problems include those that: (1) occupy units meeting the definition of Physical Defects; (2) meet the definition of overcrowded; and (3) meet the definition of cost burden greater than 30 percent. Housing Support Services: Services provided to assist low income renters or homeowners to locate or remain in their housing units, including counseling, child care, transportation, substance abuse treatment, training in homemaking and parenting skills, money and household management, counseling in homeownership, job placement, and other necessary and appropriate services. Housing Unit: An occupied or vacant house, apartment, or a single room (SRO housing) that is intended as separate living quarters. (U.S. Census definition) 189 Institutions/Institutional: Group quarters for persons under care or custody. (U.S. Census definition) Large Related Household: A household of five or more persons that includes at least one person related to the householder by blood, marriage, or adoption. Lead-Based Paint Hazard: Any condition that causes exposure to lead from lead-contaminated dust, lead-contaminated soil, lead-contaminated paint that is deteriorated or present in accessible surfaces, friction surfaces, or impact surfaces that would result in adverse human health effects as established by the appropriate federal agency. (Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 definition) LIHTC: (Federal) Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. Low-Income: Households whose incomes do not exceed 80 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by HUD with adjustments for smaller and larger families. HUD income limits are updated annually. Manufactured Home: A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis, designed to be used as a dwelling without a permanent foundation, and constructed no earlier than 1976. Mobile Home: A Manufactured Home (see above) constructed before 1976. Moderate-Income: Households whose incomes are between 51 and 80 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by HUD, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. Modular Home: A factory-built structure that is not built on a permanent chassis and is not transportable, but is assembled on-site, is usually attached to a permanent foundation, and constructed no earlier than 1976. Non-Elderly Household: A household, which does not meet the definition of "Elderly Household," as defined above. Non-Homeless Persons with Special Needs: Includes elderly, frail elderly persons, persons with AIDS and their families, persons with disabilities (mental, physical, developmental), persons with alcohol and other drug addiction, and public housing residents. Non-Institutional: Group quarters for persons not under care or custody. (U.S. Census definition) Occupied Housing Unit: A housing unit that is the usual place of residence of the occupant(s). Other Household: A household of one or more persons that does not meet the definition of a Small Related household, Large Related household or Elderly household. Other Income: Households whose incomes exceed 80 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by HUD, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. Other Low-Income: Households whose incomes are between 51 and 80 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by HUD, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. (This term corresponds to moderate-income in the CDBG Program.) 190 Other Vacant: Vacant year round housing units that are not For Rent or For Sale. This category would include Awaiting Occupancy or Held. Overcrowded: A housing unit containing more than one person per room (U.S. Census definition) Owner: A household that owns the housing unit it occupies. (U.S. Census definition) Permanent Supportive Housing: Affordable rental housing for low-income or homeless persons with severe mental illness, substance abuse, or HIV/AIDS, linked in some way with flexible community- based services that are available to tenants who need them, but are not required. Physical Defects: A housing unit lacking complete kitchen or bathroom (U.S. Census definition). Jurisdictions may expand upon the Census definition. Poverty Level: Households with incomes below the poverty line as defined by the Office of Management and Budget and revised annually. For the Consolidated Plan, HUD defines poverty level as at or below 30% median income. Primary Housing Activity: A means of providing or producing affordable housing -- such as rental assistance, production, rehabilitation or acquisition -- that will be allocated significant resources and/or pursued intensively for addressing a particular housing need. (See also "Secondary Housing Activity.") Proiect-Based (Rental) Assistance: Rental assistance provided for a project, not for a specific tenant. Tenants receiving project-based rental assistance give up the right to that assistance upon moving from the project. Rent Burden >30% (Cost Burden): The extent to which gross rents, including utility costs, exceed 30 percent of gross income, based on data published by the U.S. Census Bureau. Rent Burden >50% (Severe Cost Burden): The extent to which gross rents, including utility costs, exceed 50 percent of gross income, based on data published by the U.S. Census Bureau. Rental Assistance: Payments provided as either project-based rental assistance or tenant-based rental assistance. Renter: A household that rents the housing unit it occupies, including both units rented for cash and units occupied without cash payment of rent. (U.S. Census definition) Renter-Occupied Unit: Any occupied housing unit that is not owner-occupied, including units rented for cash and those occupied without payment of cash rent. Secondary Housing Activity: A means of providing or producing affordable housing -- such as rental assistance, production, rehabilitation or acquisition -- that will receive fewer resources and less emphasis that primary housing activities for addressing a particular housing need. (See also, "Primary Housing Activity.") Section 215: Section 215 of Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act. Section 215 defines "affordable" housing projects under the HOME Program. Self-Sufficiency: A household functioning independently of federal, state, or local assistance (excluding entitlements). 191 Service Needs: The particular services identified for special needs populations, which typically may include transportation, personal care, housekeeping, counseling, meals, case management, personal emergency response, and other services to prevent premature institutionalization and assist individuals to continue living independently. Severe Cost Burden: See Cost Burden >50%. Severe Mental Illness: A serious and persistent mental or emotional impairment that significantly limits a person's ability to live independently. Sheltered: Families and persons whose primary nighttime residence is a supervised publicly or privately operated shelter, including emergency shelters, transitional housing for the homeless, domestic violence shelters, residential shelters for runaway and homeless youth, and any hotel/motel/apartment voucher arrangement paid because the person is homeless. This term does not include persons living doubled up or in overcrowded or substandard conventional housing. Any facility offering permanent housing is not a shelter, or are its residents homeless. Small-Related Household: A household of two to four persons that includes at least one person related to the householder by birth, marriage, or adoption. Substance Abuse: See Alcohol/Other Drug Addiction. Substandard Condition and Not Suitable for Rehab: Dwelling traits that are in such poor condition as to be neither structurally nor financially feasible for rehabilitation. (Local definition) Substandard Condition but Suitable for Rehab: Dwelling units that do not meet standard conditions but are both financially and structurally feasible for rehabilitation. This does not include units that require only cosmetic work, correction or minor livability problems or maintenance work. (Local definition, also see page 18). Substantial Amendment: A major change in an approved housing strategy. It involves a change to the five-year strategy, which may be occasioned by a decision to undertake activities or programs inconsistent with that strategy. Substantial Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation of residential property at an average cost for the project in excess of $25,000 per dwelling unit. Supportive Housing: Housing, including Housing Units and Group Quarters, that have a supportive environment and includes a planned service component. Supportive Service Need in FSS Plan: The plan that PHAs administering a Family Self-Sufficiency program are required to develop to identify the services they will provide to participating families and the source of funding for those services. The supportive services may include child care; transportation; remedial education; education for completion of secondary or post secondary schooling; job training, preparation and counseling; substance abuse treatment and counseling, training in homemaking and parenting skills; money management, and household management; counseling in homeownership; job development and placement; follow-up assistance after job placement; and other appropriate services. Supportive Services: Services provided to residents of supportive housing for the purpose of facilitating the independence of residents. 192 Tenant-based (Rental) Assistance: A form of rental assistance in which the assisted tenant may move from a dwelling unit with a right to continued assistance. The assistance is provided for the tenant, not for the project. Total Vacant Housing Units: Unoccupied year round housing units. (U.S. Census definition) Transitional Housing: A project that is designed to provide housing and appropriate supportive services to homeless persons to facilitate movement to independent living within 24 months, or a longer period approved by HUD. Unsheltered: Families and individuals whose primary nighttime residence is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings (e.g., streets, parks, alleys, automobiles). Vacant Awaiting Occupancy or Held: Vacant year round housing units that have been rented or sold and are currently awaiting occupancy, and vacant year round housing units that are held by owners or renters for occasional use. (U.S. Census definition) Vacant Housing Unit: Unoccupied year round housing units that are available or intended for occupancy at any time during the year. Very Low-Income: Households whose incomes do not exceed 50 percent of the median income for the area, as determined by HUD, with adjustments for smaller or larger families. Year Round Housing Units: Occupied and vacant housing units intended for year round use. (U.S. Census definition) Housing units for seasonal or migratory use are excluded. 193 APPENDIX 5 Human Rights Commission Annual Report 194 HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES The Iowa City Human Rights Commission enforces the Human Rights Ordinance, Title 2, Iowa City Municipal Code. The Human Rights Ordinance is Iowa City's anti-discrimination law. The law gives the Human Rights Commission staff' the authority to investigate allegations of' discrimination in the areas of' employment credit transactions, education, public accommodations and housing. It is the mission of' the Human Rights Commission to eradicate discrimination in Iowa City, based on age, color, creed, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. In the area of' housing, discrimination based on familial status, presence or absence of dependents or public assistance source of income is also prohibited. The Human Rights Ordinance gives the Commission the authority to enforce the law prohibiting discrimination. After a complaint of discrimination is filed, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) staff investigates the allegations of discrimination. Following the investigation, the HRC staff shall issue a recommendation of no probable cause, probable cause or administrative closure. After reviewing the investigative summary and HRC recommendation, the City Attorney's office makes an independent probable cause determination. The HRC staff, upon a finding of probable cause, attempts to conciliate an agreement between the parties to a complaint. If no agreement can be reached, the case may proceed to public hearing. The Commission is committed to educating the public on a variety of human rights issues, discrimination and harassment. It works with a number of local agencies, businesses, and the University of Iowa to facilitate educational public forums and creatively resolve problems that arise in the community. The Human Rights Commission is a quasi-judicial body composed of nine volunteer members appointed by the City Council. Each member serves a three-year term. Appointments to the Human Rights Commission take into consideration men and women of various racial, religious, cultural and socioeconomic groups in Iowa City. The Commission meets once each month at 7:00 p.m. in Emma J. Harvat Hall in the Civic Center. The meeting site is accessible to persons with disabilities. ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN FISCAL YEAR 2004 · Met with visitors from Russia, Brazil, Thailand, Georgia and South Korea as part of CIVIC. · Participated in the "Johnson County Reads One Book" project. Be! Camo, by Anne Patchett was book selected for FY 2004. · Attended the meetings of the League of Human Rights Agencies to discuss problems afflicting local commissions. · Participated in Latino Institute planning meetings. · September 25, 20th Annual Human Rights Breakfast at the Wayne Richey Ballroom in the IMU. Winners of the Human Rights Awards included: Len Sandler - Isabel Turner award, Rita Offut- Individual in a Service Organization award, Thai Flavors - Business Award, John Paul Chaisson - Rick Graf award, Gayane Torosyan - International Award. · Worked with the Human Rights Education Committee, Johnson County Neighborhood Centers, United Action for Youth, HARRT, University of Iowa, and area schools to plan human rights projects in the community. · On October 21, addressed Professor Hani Elkadi's students in the College of Education regarding human rights education. 195 · Worked with the City Attorney's office to develop a 28E agreement with the City of Ames. · October 31, Ellen Ramsey Kacena and Heather Shank spoke at the Latino Institute held at the U of I School of Social Work. · November 1, Iowa Latino Conference held in the Iowa Memorial Union. · International Day was held at the Iowa Memorial Union and students from several Iowa communities were instructed on bullying, harassment & violence. · November 7, attended the Victory Temple Banquet and learned about minority health care as well as the effect of diabetes on that population. · September 29, addressed undergraduate students at the U of I School of Social Work. · Joined the Community Strategy Committee, one of three subcommittees formed under the larger Restorative ~lustice Committee. The Community Strategy Committee works to resolve problems that arise in the Southeast area of town. · November 6, participated as a speaker and attendee at the University of Iowa's International Day program; · Public forum on December 10 in the Senior Center entitled, Youth Town Meeting: Violence and Bullying. Event sponsored by Iowa City Human Rights Commission, United Action for Youth, Johnson County/Iowa City Senior Center. · In February 2004, the Iowa City Human Rights Commission, GLBT Task Force, United Action for Youth and over fifty area businesses, individuals and churches sponsored a public forum entitled, Making Our Schools Safe for GLBT Youth took place at the Senior Center. · On November 24, a meeting was held between Human Rights Coordinator, Ginny Naso, Asst. director of United Action for Youth, and Debra Wretman, Principal of Southeast Junior High to discuss a curriculum that would address bullying, violence and harassment at Southeast Junior High and the community at large. · Addressed Legislative Forum, January 7, 2004 · Participated in U of I Cultural Diversity Day, February 29 · March 8, International Women's Month Celebration · Building Blocks to Employment program was held on April 20 at the vacant Video Update Building. Professional people from a variety of areas volunteered. · Instructed future teachers on the topic of bullying and harassment. Showed the video, Let's Get Real. · ]st Annual Youth Human Rights Awards ceremony was held on April 27 in Emma Harvat Hall. Thirty-nine youth received awards and pins from Mayor Ernie Lehman and Chairperson Lisa Beckmann. Approximately 170 persons were in attendance. · Participated in annual Pride Festival & Parade, June 12. COMPLAINT ACTIVITY During the period from July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2004, thirty-five complaints were filed with the Iowa City Human Rights Commission. COMPLAINTS ALLEGING ONE BASIS OF DISCRIMINATION Race 9 Retaliation 1 Sexual Orientation 1 Marital Status 1 Sex 4 196 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING MORE THAN ONE BASIS OF DISCRIMINATION Race & National Origin 1 Race, Sex, Sexual Orientation 1 Sex, Sexual Orientation & Retaliation 1 Sex & Retaliation 1 Race & Disability or Perceived Disability 1 Race & Age 1 Age & Sex 1 Race, Sex & Marital Status 1 Race, Color, Sex & Sexual Orientation 1 Race & Color 7 Gender Identity, Retaliation & Sexual 1 Orientation Sex (pregnancy) & Marital Status 1 Sex (pregnancy) & Race 1 Total Number of Complaints = 35 ANALYSIS 83% of the total number of cases filed were in the area of employment. Complaints alleging public accommodation discrimination accounted for 5% of the total and the final 3% was in the area of housing. As noted in the charts above, 7 of the complaints allege discrimination based on race and color, while 9 complaints contend race was the single basis for the discriminatory act or actions. Race is listed as a factor in 8 of the cases alleging more than one basis of discrimination. In total, 24 of the 35 complainants believed race was the sole factor or one of the factors that the respondent impermissibly considered prior to engaging in the alleged discriminatory action. COMPLAINT RESOLUTION IN FISCAL YEAR 2004 17 No probable cause decisions; 2 Probable cause decision resulting in settlement agreement; 1 Probable cause decision with subsequent not litigation worthy determination & Administrative closure; 1 Settlement agreement without decision on the merits; 11 Mediation agreements; 2 Administrative closures; Total Resolutions = 34 PLANS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2005 · Annual seminar on discrimination at The University of Iowa School of Social Work; · Continue to work with Housing and Development Services and Housing Authority to increase public housing apartments and houses that are accessible to persons with disabilities; 197 · Continue to increase Council awareness on the shortage of housing for persons with disabilities; including encouraging the City Council to approve housing projects that are accessible for all, i.e. no steps entryways; · Public forum on tenant/landlord law; · Continue to advertise in the Daily Iowan and other newspapers to alert the public that housing discrimination is against the law; · Annual Human Rights Breakfast will be held on September 23, 2004, at 7:30 a.m. · Participate in projects celebrating diversity and providing human rights education with the Human Rights Education Committee, i.e. movies with human rights themes, Meet Your Neighbor projects, Building Blocks to Employment programs; · Continue to offer forums to educate public on discrimination issues. Include other agencies in the planning of larger public educational forums; · Public speaking engagements on relevant human rights issues; · Engage in surveys to determine people's perception of human rights in Iowa City; · Speak with different groups in Iowa City to assess level of need and areas of concern; · Work on joint projects with the University of Iowa Human Rights Center, United Nations Association, Iowa Division, Affirmative Action office and the College of Education will continue. · Develop programs for Martin Luther King holiday and International Women's month; · Proclamations for Black History Month, Women's History Month/International Women's Day, Fair Housing Month, and others as determined by the Commission. · Annual Youth Human Rights Awards ceremony. · Promote and initiate Dr. Dan Olweus's anti-bullying program in the community. 198 199 APPENDIX 6 RANKING SHEET 200 RANKING CRITERIA FOR CDBG\HOME PROJECTS This ranking sheet will be used to assist the Housing and Community Development Commission (HCDC) in the FY06 allocation process. HCDC members will rank each project according to the questions\criteria shown below. Each question or criteria will then be assigned a point value. The five categories below are given a total number of points and have been weighted according to their importance. Mark the number of point(s) for each question\criteria and total the points in each section. Need\Priority (maximum 20 total points) 1. Meets a CITY STEPS priority? (High=10, Medium=6, Low=3 points) 2. Has the applicant documented a need for this project? (0-5 points) 3. Project meets the goals or objectives in CITY STEPS? (0-5 points) SUB-TOTAL Leveraging Resources (maximum 25 points) 1. Does the project allow for the re-use of CDBGIHOME funds? (0-7 points) A. Principal and interest [30 year or less Amortization] 7 points B. Principal and no interest [30 year or less Amortization] 6 points C. Principal with a balloon payment 3 points D. Conditional Occupancy Loan (future repayment) 1 point E. Declining balance lien (amount forgiven over time) 0 points F. Grant (no repayment) 0 points 2. Project leverages human resources [volunteers, etc.] (0-8 points) 3. Project leverages other financial resources? [Including in-kind] (0-8 points) 4. Project pays property taxes or a payment in lieu of taxes (0-2 points) SUB-TOTAL Feasibility (maximum 20 points) 1. The project will be completed within the required time period? (0-6 points) 2. Project budget is justified? [Costs are documented\reasonable] (0-6 points) 3. The level of public subsidy is needed? [Private funds not available?] (0-4 points) 4. Has applicant documented efforts to secure other funding? (0-4 points) SUB-TOTAL Impact\Benefit (maximum 25 points 1. Primarily targets low-income persons (0-30%=10, 31-50%=6, 51-80%=4 points) 2. Project produces adequate benefits to the community related to cost? (0-5 points) 3. Does the project help persons gain self-sufficiency? (0-5 points) 4. Outcome data indicates program objectives can be met? (0-5 points) SUB-TOTAL Capacity\History (maximum 10 points) 1. Applicant has the capacity to undertake the proposed project? (0-4 points) 2. If previously funded, has applicant completed prior project(s) and maintained regulatory compliance? (0-4 points) 3. If new, applicant can maintain regulatory compliance? (0-4 points) 4. Applicant attended CDBG/HOME Workshop? (0 or 2 points) SUB-TOTAL GRAND TOTAL: PROJECT NAME: PROPOSED ALLOCATION: $ (Projects under 60 points receive $0) 201 202 Greater Iowa City Housing Fellowship opening th doors o£Io City 1700 South First Avenue, Suite 25B Iowa City, IA 52240-6036 319.358.9212 December 3, 2004 Iowa City City Council 410 East Washington Street Iowa City, IA 52240 RE: Consolidated Plan for fiscal years 2006-2010 Dear Members of the Council: We are writing to ask you to consider a change in the proposed amounts of CDBG and HOME funds to be allocated within categories of eligible funding activities. The proposed City STEPS Plan 2006-2010 states that there are 7,303 renter households with housing problems and 1,966 owner- occupied households with housing problems in Iowa City. Housing problems are defined in the plan as occupancy in units without bathrooms or kitchens, overcrowding or those with burdensome housing costs. The proposed amounts to be allocated in different housing categories contradict the data in the Plan. City STEPS proposes to allocate 40% of the HOME funds for homeownership and rehabilitation and 25% of HOME funds for rental housing. If there are four times the number of renter households experiencing housing problems than owner-occupied households, why is not this reflected in the projected allocations? City STEPS explains that according to the Maxfield Study, by the year 2000 there should have been 300 subsidized and affordable rental units constructed to meet the demand in Iowa City. The number of subsidized and affordable rental units placed in service has met only 31% of Maxfield's projected demand. Conversely, City STEPS states that the demands for owner-occupied are being met (i.e. projected demand 1998-2005 of 1,216 units and 1,202 building permits issued 1998-2003). It is unclear as to how or why the proposed allocations were derived given the data in the City STEPS Plan. The Housing Fellowship has long known the severe demand for affordable rental housing in Iowa City and is committed to addressing this need. Please carefully review City STEPS and adopt levels of allocations that reflect the needs in Iowa City. Sincerely, Maryann Dennis Charles Eastham Executive Director President